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United Airlines Online Check-In (2026)

Last updated: April 2026 · Source: United Airlines official website

Quick Answer

United Airlines online check-in opens 24 hours before departure and closes 45 minutes before domestic flights and 60 minutes before international flights. You can check in via united.com, the United app, or airport kiosks using your confirmation number and last name.

Check-In Window

Opens
24 hours before departure
Closes
45 minutes before domestic flights, 60 minutes before international flights

How to Check In Online — Step by Step

  1. 1Visit united.com/checkin or open the United app.
  2. 2Enter your confirmation or eTicket number and last name, or log in using your MileagePlus account.
  3. 3For international travel, scan your passport using the app.
  4. 4Select passengers to check in and choose or confirm your seat assignment.
  5. 5Prepay for any checked bags to use the bag drop shortcut.
  6. 6Download your electronic boarding pass or print it.
Go to United Airlines Check-In →

Check-In Methods

Online (Website)https://www.united.com/checkin
Mobile App✓ United app (iOS, Android)
Mobile Boarding Pass✓ Accepted
Airport Kiosk✓ Available at most airports

Documents Required

Confirmation or eTicket number, last name, and valid travel documents (passport or visa for international flights). Passport can be scanned via the United app.

Seat Selection at Check-In

Seat selection is available during check-in. You can choose or confirm your seat assignment, and upgrade options may be available for purchase. Basic Economy passengers may have limited seat selection options.

International Flight Check-In

Check in at least 60 minutes before departure. Passport or visa is required and can be verified through the Travel-Ready Center or scanned using the United app. Some destinations may require additional documentation checks at the gate.

Group & Family Check-In

Online check-in is available for groups of fewer than nine people. Groups of nine or more must check in at the airport.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  1. 1'Not eligible for online check-in' - May occur if you are booked in Basic Economy without a checked bag, have a paper ticket, or need special service requests.
  2. 2'Passport verification needed' - Scan your passport in the app or visit an airport kiosk.
  3. 3'Check-in time limit passed' - You must check in at least 45 minutes before domestic flights and 60 minutes before international flights.

Pro Tips

United allows you to prepay for checked bags during online check-in to use a quicker 'bag drop shortcut' at the airport. Basic Economy passengers cannot check in online unless they indicate they are checking a bag.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I check in online if I bought my ticket at a travel agency?
Yes, if you have an electronic ticket.
Can I check my bags on the United app or united.com?
Yes, you can prepay for your bags and drop them at the bag drop shortcut.
Who is not eligible for online check-in?
Passengers with paper tickets, certain special service requests, or those booked in Basic Economy who are not checking a bag.

More United Airlines Information

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