Southwest Airlines Online Check-In Guide (2026)
Southwest Airlines check in opens exactly 24 hours before departure. Your boarding position is determined by check-in time — the earlier you check in, the better your seat choice. Check-in closes 45 minutes before domestic flights and 60 minutes before international flights.
Check-In Timing
| Airline | Southwest Airlines (WN) |
|---|---|
| Check-In Opens | 24 hours before scheduled departure |
| Check-In Closes | 45 minutes before domestic departures, 60 minutes before international departures |
| Check-In URL | https://www.southwest.com/air/check-in/ |
| Mobile App | Southwest Airlines app (iOS, Android) |
| Mobile Boarding Pass | Yes |
| Airport Kiosk | Yes |
Step-by-Step Check-In Guide
1. Visit southwest.com/check-in or open the Southwest app. 2. Enter your confirmation number, first name, and last name. 3. Click 'Check In' exactly at the 24-hour mark to secure the best boarding position. 4. Review your assigned boarding group and position (e.g., A, B, or C). 5. Download your mobile boarding pass or print it. 6. Proceed to the gate and line up according to your assigned boarding position.
Documents Needed
Confirmation number, first and last name. For international flights, a valid passport is required, and visa/entry documents depending on the destination. REAL ID or standard ID for domestic flights.
Seat Selection
Southwest has an open seating policy and does not assign seats; passengers choose any available seat upon boarding. Boarding order is determined by check-in time, so checking in exactly 24 hours before departure is crucial unless you purchase EarlyBird Check-In.
International Check-In Rules
Passport information must be entered during booking or check-in. Passengers and baggage must be checked in at least 60 minutes prior to scheduled departure. You may need to verify your passport at the ticket counter or kiosk before receiving a boarding pass.
Group Check-In
All customers on the same reservation will be assigned the same boarding group, except for Group travel reservations. Families with children 6 and under can board during Family Boarding, which occurs between the A and B groups.
Troubleshooting
1. 'Unable to check in online' - For international flights, this often means passport verification is required at the airport. 2. 'Check-in button not working' - Ensure you are checking in exactly at or after the 24-hour mark; refreshing the page right at 24 hours is recommended. 3. 'Boarding pass not issued' - You may have been selected for secondary security screening (SSSS) or need to see an agent.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I check in for Southwest Airlines?
- You can check in for Southwest Airlines starting exactly 24 hours before departure at southwest.com, the Southwest app, or airport kiosks. Enter your confirmation number and name. Your boarding position is determined by check-in time, so check in as close to the 24-hour mark as possible for the best seat selection.
- Does Southwest assign seats?
- No, Southwest has an open seating policy. You choose any available seat when you board based on your assigned boarding group (A, B, or C) and position (1-60).
- What is EarlyBird Check-In?
- EarlyBird Check-In automatically checks you in 36 hours before departure, giving you a better boarding position before general check-in opens at 24 hours.
- Can I check in online for international flights?
- Yes, but you must enter your passport information, and you may still need to verify documents at the airport counter before proceeding to security.