Oneworld Sapphire Status via a Credit Card (No Flying Required)

Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to achieve Oneworld status organically in 2024 due to a reduction in business travel. As a result, I decided to explore an alternative: the Qatar Airways Privilege Club Infinite Credit Card from Cardless. This premium card, priced at $499 per year, offers a one-year Oneworld Sapphire (mid-tier) status as a perk which is Qatar Privilege Club Gold. However, this benefit is limited to a single 365-day period, making it a short-term solution in the “status game.” If you apply today, February 6th, 2025 then you would have Qatar Privilege Club Gold status until February 6th, 2026.

Note: A credit score of 750+ is required to be approved. A virtual card is instantly available for online purchases and also via your mobile wallet (Apple Wallet).

It’s not quite the same as what I’m used to with Alaska MVP Gold, but it’s close enough. Here are the differences:

• No Premium Class or First Class upgrades on Alaska
• No First Class upgrades on American, but you still get Main Cabin Extra seats at time of booking at no charge
• Access to Alaska Airlines and American Airlines Lounges (including Flagship) which is a huge win over Alaska MVP Gold!
  • Rule: Those who earn Oneworld Emerald or Sapphire status through another frequent flyer program other than Alaska or American can access oneworld lounges when traveling exclusively within the United States.

Recently, I used my newly “earned” Qatar Gold status for JAL Business Class lounge access and 2 free checked bags on Japan domestic flights. It worked flawlessly.

Conclusion: It’s an awesome option for anyone looking to get lounge access globally (including within the US), priority check-in, priority boarding and 2 free checked bags with priority tags when flying Oneworld airlines (Alaska, American, JAL, Qantas, Cathay, British, Qatar, etc.) for 1 year without having to fly 40,000+ miles. I’m not sure what I plan to do for 2026, but this will hold me over until the end of 2025. Maybe a status match will popup this year. What is your strategy for airline status? Comment below.

Qatar Gold