The World of Hyatt loyalty program is small but mighty. The portfolio of hotels in the Hyatt family is not as extensive as those of other programs, but the program's benefits are rich. This helps to make up for the smaller footprint of hotels so that when loyal Hyatt guests check in, they feel rewarded.

World of Hyatt has three elite status tiers: Discoverist, Explorist and Globalist. In addition, those most loyal to World of Hyatt have the opportunity to earn Hyatt Lifetime Globalist status, which can deliver some nice perks when you travel.

Here's a look at both Globalist and Lifetime Globalist status, including benefits and how to earn them.

What are the benefits of Hyatt Globalist status?

Before getting into the specifics about lifetime status, let's first review Hyatt's top-tier Globalist status. Hyatt Globalist delivers perks like club lounge access, complimentary breakfast (when a club lounge is unavailable), suite upgrades, bonus points and Guest of Honor status, which allows you to share your elite perks with another guest (even when you aren't staying with them).

Other perks include free parking on award stays, waived resort fees and late checkout.

This can make staying at Hyatt properties a more enjoyable experience when you travel.

How do you earn Hyatt Globalist status?

There are four ways to earn annual Globalist status, which lasts through February of the second calendar year after you qualify.

Stay 60 nights per calendar year

You earn one award night toward status for each eligible night within a calendar year. An eligible night is a paid rate reserved through a Hyatt channel (Hyatt-branded website, reservations phone line or via the hotel) at a participating property.

Earn 100,000 base points per calendar year

Alternatively, a member can earn 100,000 base points via eligible charges at participating properties, including payments on eligible room rates, dining, spa bookings and even incidental charges. In addition, guests earn 5 base points per eligible dollar spent.

Organize 20 meetings per calendar year

Organized meetings, conferences or events count towards earning elite status when at least 10 guest rooms are reserved for the same night as the event.

Achieve American Airlines Concierge Key elite status

Holding American Airlines Concierge Key status comes with Hyatt Globalist status. Concierge Key is an invitation-only status level for American Airlines' top fliers (those who spend a lot with the carrier, for example). The World of Hyatt and AAdvantage partnership is a great way to earn reciprocal benefits and additional points and miles.

How do you earn Hyatt Lifetime Globalist status?

You'll need to earn 1 million base points during your Hyatt membership to achieve this milestone.

For members that join the program early, frequently travel to Hyatt properties (especially pricey ones) and stay loyal to the brand, this is possible (and entirely worth it).

Unlike annual Globalist status, there is no option to earn Hyatt lifetime status through organizing meetings or by the number of nights you stay. To achieve Lifetime Globalist, a member must spend $200,000 with Hyatt to get the necessary base points.

Don't forget that there are other ways to earn base points beyond a hotel stay. This can include dining or spa services at participating properties (even when not a guest), eligible bookings with Small Luxury Hotels of the World or MGM Resorts (through Sept. 30, 2023, read more here), or experiences such as booking a Lindblad Expeditions cruise.