Starting 1/12, passengers without checked baggage are required to complete security checks and board using biometrics on VNeID or other methods, including self-service kiosks at the airport, and airline websites and apps.

Here's how to check in without queuing, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV), airlines, and administrators of an aviation forum with over 171,000 members.

Checking in via the VNeID app

Online check-in section in the VNeID app.

To check in online using VNeID, passengers need the app installed with a level-2 verified VNeID account. Airlines in Vietnam that allow check-in via this app include Vietnam Airlines (Vietnam Airlines, Pacific Airlines, Vasco) and Vietjet Air. The steps are as follows:

Step 1: Log in to the VNeID app.

Step 2: Select "Other Services."

Step 3: Select "Airline Services."

Step 4: Choose "Online Check-in" and select either Vietnam Airlines or Vietjet Air. Enter the booking code, name, and other required information.

Note: If the passenger's phone doesn't have the airline's app installed or hasn't been updated to the appropriate version, the system will redirect to the Apple Store or CH Play for installation or upgrade.

Step 5: After agreeing to the terms, purpose of data sharing and processing, passengers are redirected to the airline's app to complete the online check-in process and electronic Know Your Customer (eKYC) verification.

Step 6: Select "Perform eKYC." The system will then prompt for a photo and facial comparison.

Step 7: After checking in online, passengers only need to scan their faces at the security gate and boarding gate, without presenting any other documents (provided the system is stable). This Face ID Boarding technology saves time and eliminates the need for repeated document presentation.

Biometric system at Tan Son Nhat Airport. Photo: Ha Giang

Biometric system at Tan Son Nhat Airport. Photo: Ha Giang

Checking in via airline apps and websites

Step 1: Enter the booking reference and passenger's last name.

Step 2: Select the flight.

Step 3: Select the passengers to check in and enter information for each passenger.

Step 4: Confirm and agree to the restricted baggage regulations.

Step 5: The screen will display a successful check-in message with a default seat assignment (free of charge). Select "Other Options" to choose a different seat or purchase additional services such as baggage and meals. After reviewing the additional services, proceed with payment.

Step 6: Print or download the boarding pass. Completing this step finalizes online check-in and allows access to the security checkpoint. However, passengers still need to present identification at security.

To avoid presenting physical identification, on the check-in completion screen (Step 5), select "View Boarding Pass," then "eKYC Verification" and "Proceed" to verify identity and continue as with the VNeID app process.

Checking in at airport kiosks

Airline kiosks are located in many airports across Vietnam. Photo: VNA

Airline kiosks are located in many airports across Vietnam. Photo: VNA

Locate check-in kiosks in the departure terminal (near the check-in counter area) or ask airport staff for assistance. The steps are:

: Step 1: Select the language.

: Step 2: Enter the booking reference, e-ticket number, or frequent flyer card number (if provided during booking).

: Step 3: Select the passenger(s) for check-in.

: Step 4: Select seats on the flight.

: Step 5: Purchase additional checked baggage if exceeding the free allowance. Some airports allow baggage purchases at the kiosk.

: Step 6: Print the boarding pass and baggage tag.

: Step 7: Proceed directly to the security screening/immigration area (personal identification is still required).

Self-service kiosks are available from 6 hours to 45 minutes before departure for domestic flights and 6 hours to 60 minutes for international flights. Ensure you have all necessary travel documents.

Passengers who cannot use kiosks include: those traveling with children under two; those requiring information verification; groups of more than 4 people for domestic flights; and those requiring special assistance.

Consult the airline for kiosk locations.

Instructions for checking in using VNeID by Vietnam Airlines. Source: Xtrip

Important notes

: Update VNeID and airline apps to the latest version.

: Carry a valid citizen identity card/passport in case of issues.

In Vietnam, biometric technology using VNeID is implemented at Noi Bai Airport (Hanoi), Da Nang Airport, and Tan Son Nhat Airport (TP HCM). This replaces the previous document presentation process. Biometric check-in points are located near biometric security checkpoints and at boarding gates.

Tam Anh