How do I check in for Lufthansa?

Check in starting 30 hours before departure at lufthansa.com or the Lufthansa app. Enter your booking reference or ticket number and name, select passengers, choose or confirm your seat, and download your mobile boarding pass. Airport kiosks and counters are also available.

When does Lufthansa online check-in open?

Online check-in opens 30 hours before departure (extended from 23 hours in November 2023) — earlier than most airlines.

Can I choose my seat during online check-in?

Yes, seat selection is free for Economy Classic/Flex fares at check-in. Economy Light passengers pay EUR 10/USD 11. Economy Basic passengers cannot select seats in advance — seats are assigned at check-in.

Can I use a mobile boarding pass?

Yes, mobile boarding passes are accepted at most airports via the Lufthansa app.

Lufthansa Online Check-In Guide (2026)

Lufthansa check in opens 30 hours before departure and closes 40 minutes before short-haul flights (60 minutes for long-haul). Complete Lufthansa check in via lufthansa.com or the Lufthansa app using your booking reference or ticket number.

Page updated: August 2026

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Check-In Timing

Airline	Lufthansa (LH)
Check-In Opens	30 hours before departure
Check-In Closes	40 minutes before short-haul flights, 60 minutes before long-haul flights
Check-In URL	https://www.lufthansa.com/us/en/online-check-in
Mobile App	Lufthansa app (iOS, Android)
Mobile Boarding Pass	Yes
Airport Kiosk	Yes

Step-by-Step Check-In Guide

Visit lufthansa.com or open the Lufthansa app from 30 hours before departure
Enter your booking reference or ticket number and name
Select the passengers you wish to check in
Choose or change your seat assignment
Add any extra baggage if needed
Download your mobile boarding pass or print it

Documents Needed

Booking reference (6-character PNR) or ticket number, passport for international flights, and any required visas or health documents.

Seat Selection

Free seat selection is available during online check-in for Economy Classic/Flex fares. Economy Light: EUR 10/USD 11 for standard seat. Economy Basic: no advance selection, seat assigned at check-in. HON Circle/Senators: free standard + extra legroom.

International Check-In Rules

Passport and visa details must be provided via APIS for international flights. Passengers may need to present travel documents at the airport for verification before boarding.

Group Check-In

Group check-in is available for passengers on the same booking. Names of all group members must be provided at least 14 days before departure.

Troubleshooting

1. 'Check-in not available' - Ensure you are within the 30-hour window or check if your flight is operated by a partner airline (use that airline's check-in). 2. 'Unable to select seat' - Economy Basic fares do not include seat selection; Economy Light requires payment. 3. 'Document verification required' - Proceed to the airport counter to have your passport or visa manually checked.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I check in for Lufthansa?: Check in starting 30 hours before departure at lufthansa.com or the Lufthansa app. Enter your booking reference or ticket number and name, select passengers, choose or confirm your seat, and download your mobile boarding pass. Airport kiosks and counters are also available.
When does Lufthansa online check-in open?: Online check-in opens 30 hours before departure (extended from 23 hours in November 2023) — earlier than most airlines.
Can I choose my seat during online check-in?: Yes, seat selection is free for Economy Classic/Flex fares at check-in. Economy Light passengers pay EUR 10/USD 11. Economy Basic passengers cannot select seats in advance — seats are assigned at check-in.
Can I use a mobile boarding pass?: Yes, mobile boarding passes are accepted at most airports via the Lufthansa app.