Vietnam Airlines Status Match Now Includes Hotel Loyalty Programs (With a Fee)

Vietnam Airlines has been quietly offering a paid status match to its Lotusmiles program for a while now—but there’s a new update.

As of June 2025, you can now match not just from other airline programs, but also from select hotel loyalty programs like Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, and Hyatt.

This update opens the door for travellers who’ve racked up hotel elite status but haven’t flown enough to gain airline perks to unlock Lotusmiles status and even SkyTeam status with a relatively easy application and a one-time fee.

Here’s everything you need to know about what’s new, what you get, and whether it’s worth the cost.

Status Match Eligibility: Hotels Now Included

Vietnam Airlines’ status match program has expanded to include select hotel loyalty programs, alongside many major airline programs.

You’ll be matched to one of three tiers in their Lotusmiles program: Titanium, Gold, or Platinum.

And just a heads-up, despite what your Marriott instincts might tell you, Titanium is actually the lowest tier here, followed by Gold and then Platinum.

While there’s a long list of eligible programs, we’ll focus on those that are most relevant to Canadian travellers:

For hotel-based applications, the highest you can be matched to is Gold. Platinum is currently only available through airline programs.

 Keep in mind that not all status tiers from these programs will necessarily qualify you for a match—Vietnam Airlines assesses each request manually.

Fees & Application Process

If your match is approved, you’ll pay a non-refundable fee, based on your region and the tier you’re being upgraded to.

For Canadians matching from airline status:

• Titanium: $99 USD
• Gold: $159 USD
• Platinum: $299 USD

For hotel status matches:

• Titanium: $99 USD
• Gold: $199 USD
• Platinum: Not available

Luckily, you’ll only be charged after your match is approved. Once activated, your matched status is valid for 12 months, and requalification will require meeting the standard Lotusmiles flying requirements.

Overview of Lotusmiles Elite Benefits

Each Lotusmiles tier unlocks a different level of perks with Vietnam Airlines:

• Titanium gives you basic priority check-in and boarding, and a small extra baggage allowance.
• Gold adds limited lounge access (mainly domestic), and better waitlisting priority.
• Platinum is where it gets real: you get international lounge access, complimentary upgrade…