Travel Smarter: New Rules for Carry-On Travelers Starting December 1st!
Frequent flyers who travel light with just carry-on luggage, get ready for some fantastic news! Starting December 1st, 2025, passengers will be able to complete their check-in process without needing to visit the airline counter. Here are three super-fast and efficient ways to do it:
1. Seamless Check-in with the VNeID App (Biometric FaceID Boarding)
For a truly paperless experience, download the VNeID app (requiring level 2 identity verification). Navigate to Other Services > Aviation Services > Online Check-in. Enter your booking code and full name, agree to data sharing, and the system will seamlessly transition to your airline's app. Complete the eKYC process by taking a photo of your face for verification. Once successful, at the airport, simply use your facial scan at security checkpoints and boarding gates – no need to present your ID card or passport!
- Currently available at: Noi Bai, Da Nang, and Tan Son Nhat airports.
- Applies to flights with: Vietnam Airlines, Pacific Airlines, Vasco, or Vietjet Air.
The Upside: This is incredibly quick, convenient, and eliminates the need to carry multiple documents. The Downside: If the system experiences a glitch, you'll still need to show your ID card or passport.
2. Check-in via Airline Websites or Apps
Head over to your airline's website or dedicated mobile app. You'll typically need to enter your booking code and the passenger's last name. Select your flight, choose your seat (the system assigns a free seat by default, but you can pay for specific preferences). After confirmation, download your boarding pass to your phone or print it out. Upon arrival at the airport:
- If you have a standard boarding pass, you'll still need to present your ID card or passport at security.
- However, if you've completed eKYC within the airline's app, you can enjoy the same FaceID boarding convenience as the VNeID app, bypassing the need for physical documents.
The Upside: This method is familiar, easy to use, and can be done remotely. The Downside: You'll still need to show your physical ID if you haven't completed the eKYC verification.
3. Self-Service Kiosks at the Airport
Locate the airline's self-service kiosks, usually situated near the traditional check-in counters. Select your preferred language, then enter your booking code, ticket number, or loyalty program number. Choose the passenger you are checking in for and select your seat. You can also purchase additional baggage or in-flight meals if needed. Your boarding pass will be printed directly from the kiosk. You can then proceed directly to security, but remember you'll still need to present your ID card or passport.
Kiosk Check-in Window:
- Domestic flights: From 6 hours to 45 minutes before departure.
- International flights: From 6 hours to 60 minutes before departure.
Situations where kiosk check-in may not be possible:
- Traveling with infants under 2 years old.
- Groups of 4 or more passengers (for domestic flights).
- When requiring special assistance or needing to verify information.
Important Reminders
- Always ensure you have the latest version of the VNeID app and your airline's mobile application installed.
- Keep your ID card or passport with you at all times, just in case of any system issues.
- The FaceID Boarding technology is currently operational at the three major airports: Noi Bai, Da Nang, and Tan Son Nhat.
- When going through security, if you've successfully checked in and completed eKYC, you can proceed directly without waiting in long queues at the counter.
Source: VNExpress.
