United Airlines Online Check-In Guide (2026)
United Airlines check in opens 24 hours before departure and closes 45 minutes before domestic flights (60 minutes for international). Complete United Airlines check in via united.com, the United app, or airport kiosks using your confirmation number and last name.
Check-In Timing
| Airline | United Airlines (UA) |
|---|---|
| Check-In Opens | 24 hours before departure |
| Check-In Closes | 45 minutes before domestic flights, 60 minutes before international flights |
| Check-In URL | https://www.united.com/checkin |
| Mobile App | United app (iOS, Android) |
| Mobile Boarding Pass | Yes |
| Airport Kiosk | Yes |
Step-by-Step Check-In Guide
1. Visit united.com/checkin or open the United app. 2. Enter your confirmation or eTicket number and last name, or log in using your MileagePlus account. 3. For international travel, scan your passport using the app. 4. Select passengers to check in and choose or confirm your seat assignment. 5. Prepay for any checked bags to use the bag drop shortcut. 6. Download your electronic boarding pass or print it.
Documents Needed
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
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 Check-In Rules
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 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
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. 'Passport verification needed' - Scan your passport in the app or visit an airport kiosk. 3. 'Check-in time limit passed' - You must check in at least 45 minutes before domestic flights and 60 minutes before international flights.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I check in for United Airlines?
- You can check in for United Airlines starting 24 hours before departure at united.com, the United app, or airport kiosks. Enter your confirmation number and last name, select passengers, confirm seats, prepay for bags, and download your boarding pass.
- 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.