What is a Vietnam Airlines boarding pass and why should you care?
A boarding pass is a document confirming that you have completed the check-in procedure and are allowed to board the aircraft. This pass contains flight information, seat number, boarding gate, and a QR code for security screening.
Previously, passengers were required to print a paper pass or receive one at the counter. However, from 2026, Vietnam Airlines has implemented various forms of electronic passes, including integration with VNeID. This has caused confusion for many: is it still necessary to print a Vietnam Airlines boarding pass?
The short answer is: not mandatory, but there are exceptions.
Is it mandatory to print a Vietnam Airlines boarding pass?
Printing a paper pass is not a mandatory requirement in most cases. However, you need to understand specific situations to avoid trouble at the airport.
Cases where printing is not required
- Online check-in and receiving an electronic pass on your phone: You can check in via the Vietnam Airlines website or app, receive a QR code, and present it at the security checkpoint.
- Using the Vietnam Airlines app: This app allows you to save the pass to an electronic wallet, no internet required after downloading.
- Using VNeID level 2: This is the newest method, only applicable for domestic flights. You present your VNeID at the check-in counter or security gate.
Cases where a printed pass or counter-issued pass is mandatory
- International flights to countries requiring entry document checks at the counter: Airline staff need to check visas or entry documents before issuing the pass.
- Passengers with checked baggage: Even if you have checked in online, you must still go to the drop-off counter. Staff will print a new pass or confirm the electronic one.
- Unaccompanied minors (UM): This procedure requires in-person processing at the counter.
- Passengers needing special services: Wheelchair assistance, medical support, or other services require you to go to the counter for staff assistance.
Tip: If you only carry hand luggage and fly domestically, you can completely use an electronic pass. But always bring a power bank.
Ways to receive a Vietnam Airlines boarding pass in 2026
Online check-in via the Vietnam Airlines website
This is the most common method. You access the Vietnam Airlines website, enter your booking code and full name, select your seat, and receive an electronic pass via email or download it to your device.
Online check-in times:
- Domestic: from 24 hours to 1 hour before departure
- International: from 48 hours to 1 hour before departure
Check-in via the Vietnam Airlines mobile app
The Vietnam Airlines app is available on iOS and Android. Its biggest advantage is that you can save the pass to an electronic wallet. Once downloaded, you don't need internet to display the pass.
Steps to follow:
- Download the Vietnam Airlines app
- Log in using your booking code or Lotusmiles account
- Select your flight, choose your seat
- Receive the electronic pass and save it to your wallet
Check-in at the airport counter
This method is suitable when you have checked baggage, need special assistance, or cannot check in online. Note the arrival times at the airport:
- Domestic: at least 2 hours before departure
- International: at least 3 hours before departure
Check-in at self-service kiosks
Major airports like Noi Bai (Hanoi), Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City), and Da Nang all have kiosk machines. You just need to scan your ID card or enter your booking code, and the machine will print a free pass in seconds.
Note: Kiosks usually do not support printing passes for international passengers or those with special checked baggage.
Using VNeID as a boarding pass replacement - Latest regulations
The year 2026 marks a significant step in digitizing aviation procedures in Vietnam. VNeID level 2 is officially accepted as a replacement for the boarding pass for domestic flights on Vietnam Airlines.
What is VNeID level 2 and how to register
VNeID is an electronic identification app developed by the Vietnamese Ministry of Public Security. Level 2 is the highest authentication level, requiring you to go directly to a police station for identity verification.
How to register:
- Download the VNeID app from the App Store or Google Play
- Register an account with your ID card number and phone number
- Go to the nearest police station for level 2 authentication
- Processing time: 3-7 working days
Conditions for using VNeID when flying Vietnam Airlines
- Only applicable for domestic flights
- VNeID account must be active (not locked)
- Passengers aged 14 and above
- Children under 14 can be integrated into a parent's account
- Not applicable for international flights
Guide to using VNeID at the airport
When you arrive at the airport, present your VNeID at the check-in counter or security checkpoint. Staff will scan the QR code on the app to verify your information.
Warning: Ensure your phone has battery and an internet connection when using VNeID. If the battery dies, you will face major trouble.
Comparison of pass receipt methods: Which one should you choose?
| Method | Suitable for | Advantages | Disadvantages | Risks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online check-in (web) | Passengers without smartphones or who don't want to use apps | No app download needed, easy to use | Need a printer if you want to print the pass | Forgot password, website errors |
| Mobile app | Frequent flyers | Save pass to wallet, no internet needed | Drains phone battery | Dead battery, app errors |
| Airport counter | Passengers with checked baggage, international flights | Direct support, handles all issues | Time-consuming queues | Late arrival leads to denial |
| Self-service kiosk | Passengers with only hand luggage | Fast, free printing | Doesn't support special checked baggage | Machine breakdown, out of paper |
| VNeID level 2 | Domestic passengers who have registered VNeID | No paper needed, modern | Not yet applicable internationally | Dead battery, no network |
Risks of not printing a boarding pass and how to avoid them
Although printing is not mandatory, relying solely on an electronic pass carries some risks. Here's how to avoid them.
Dead phone battery
This is the biggest risk. If your phone is off, you cannot present your electronic pass or VNeID.
Solution: Bring a power bank. If you forget, go to the airport kiosk to print a free pass.
Loss of internet connection
Electronic passes saved in a wallet don't need internet. But if you only have the pass in your email or an app that hasn't been downloaded, you won't be able to access it.
Solution: Download the pass to your device before arriving at the airport. Taking a screenshot of the pass is also a good backup.
App or system errors
The Vietnam Airlines or VNeID app may experience errors during peak hours.
Solution: Arrive at the airport 30 minutes earlier than planned. If there's an error, you'll still have time to go to the check-in counter.
Flight changes or cancellations
Electronic passes may automatically update for minor changes. But if the flight is cancelled or undergoes major changes, the old pass is no longer valid.
Solution: Recheck your flight information on the app or website before heading to the airport.
Regulations on identification documents when flying Vietnam Airlines
Besides the boarding pass, you need to bring valid identification documents. Here are the detailed regulations.
Vietnamese nationality passengers
| Subject | Accepted documents | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Aged 14 and above | ID card, passport, VNeID level 2 | ID card must be valid, not laminated |
| Under 14 | Original or certified copy of birth certificate, passport, integrated VNeID | Children under 2 months old can use a birth certificate |
Foreign nationality passengers
- Passport (with most recent entry stamp)
- Visa, temporary residence card, permanent residence card
- Replacement documents in case of lost passport: official letter from diplomatic mission
Note: If you fly domestically and have VNeID level 2, you do not need to carry a physical ID card or passport. But you should still bring them in case the system encounters problems.
Frequently asked questions about Vietnam Airlines boarding passes
Q: Do I need to print a Vietnam Airlines boarding pass? A: Printing a paper pass is not mandatory if you check in online and only carry hand luggage. However, if you have checked baggage, fly internationally, or need special assistance, you must go to the counter and will receive a printed pass there.
Q: Can I use VNeID instead of a boarding pass? A: Yes, but only for domestic flights and your VNeID account must be level 2 (verified). Passengers need to present VNeID at the check-in counter or security checkpoint. It is not yet applicable for international flights.
Q: What documents do children need to fly? A: Children under 14 need an original or certified copy of their birth certificate, a passport (if available), or information integrated into a parent's VNeID level 2. Children under 2 months old who do not yet have a birth certificate can use a birth certificate document.
Q: How long before the flight can I check in online for Vietnam Airlines? A: For domestic flights: from 24 hours to 1 hour before departure. For international flights: from 48 hours to 1 hour before departure.
Q: If I forget to print my boarding pass, can I get it reissued? A: Yes. You can go to the Vietnam Airlines check-in counter at the airport to get a free reissue, or use a self-service kiosk to print a pass. You need to present your ID card or passport.
Q: Is an electronic boarding pass as valid as a printed one? A: Yes, an electronic pass on your phone (via the Vietnam Airlines app, email, or wallet) is equivalent to a printed pass. However, ensure your phone has battery and the screen clearly displays the QR code.
Q: Can I use a photo of the boarding pass? A: No. Screenshots or photos of a printed pass are not accepted. You must present the original pass (printed version or electronic version from the official app/email).
Important tips and notes for a smooth flight
Ideal check-in time
- Domestic: 24 hours before departure
- International: 48 hours before departure
Reason: Checking in early helps you choose good seats (near the window, aisle, or seats with extra legroom). It also helps you avoid the rush at the airport.
Things to check before heading to the airport
- Flight information: departure time, boarding gate, any changes
- Identification documents: are they still valid
- Luggage: meets size and weight regulations
- Boarding pass: saved on your phone, in your wallet, or printed
What to do if you forget or lose your boarding pass
- Go to the Vietnam Airlines check-in counter for a free reissue
- Use a self-service kiosk to reprint
- Present your ID card or passport for staff to look up
Real-life experience: A passenger once almost missed their flight because their phone battery died and they didn't remember their booking code. Always write down your booking code in an easy-to-find place, like in a notebook or send it to a family member.
If you are planning a trip to Vietnam, don't forget to check out other useful articles like Vietnam Airlines Ticket Prices 2026 to hunt for cheap tickets, or Domestic Flights in Vietnam to compare domestic airlines. And if you want to explore attractive destinations, take a look at Ha Giang Loop or Mekong Delta.