VietJet Air, Vietnam's largest low-cost carrier, operates an extensive network of domestic and international routes from its hub at Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City, as well as Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi and Da Nang International Airport (DAD). The airline carries tens of millions of passengers annually, and understanding its check-in procedures is essential for a smooth journey. This article explains every check-in option VietJet offers, web, mobile app, airport kiosk, and counter check-in, along with fees, deadlines, baggage rules, and practical tips for Singapore-based and regional travellers. For a broader overview of low‑cost carrier travel, see the complete guide to flying low‑cost carriers from Singapore and the region.
Overview of VietJet Check-In Options
VietJet provides four primary check‑in methods: online (web), mobile app, airport self‑service kiosk, and airport counter. Each method has specific opening and closing times, eligibility rules, and sometimes additional charges. Most passengers on domestic Vietnamese routes can use any method, while international travellers may face stricter deadlines. The check‑in window typically opens 24 hours before departure and closes 1 hour before departure for domestic flights, and 50 minutes before for international flights. However, some airports apply different cut‑offs, so always verify with VietJet's official website or app. For tips on booking VietJet tickets affordably, refer to VietJet: Book Like a Pro.
Web Check-In (Online Check-In)
How to Use Web Check-In
Web check‑in is available for all VietJet flights, both domestic and international, except for certain group bookings or special assistance requests. To web check‑in:
- Go to www.vietjetair.com and click “Check‑in” in the top menu.
- Enter your booking reference (PNR) and the last name of the primary passenger.
- Select the flight segment you wish to check in for (if multiple).
- Confirm seat selection (if not already assigned) and add any checked baggage if needed.
- Receive your boarding pass as a PDF or save it to your mobile device.
The web check‑in window opens exactly 24 hours before scheduled departure and closes 1 hour before departure for domestic flights, and 50 minutes before for international flights. Passengers who check in online but do not have a printed or digital boarding pass must still visit a counter or kiosk to obtain a physical pass, but they are considered “checked in” in the system.
Fees for Web Check-In
Web check‑in is free of charge. However, if you select a seat during the check‑in process, seat selection fees apply. These vary by route: on domestic routes, standard seats cost 60,000-120,000 VND (approximately S$3.50, S$7.00), while premium seats (extra legroom or exit rows) cost 150,000-300,000 VND (S$9, S$18). On international routes, seat fees are higher, standard seats 150,000-300,000 VND, premium seats up to 600,000 VND (S$36). For more on seat selection costs, see Scoot Seat Selection Tips (similar principles apply).
What You Need for Web Check-In
You will need a valid e‑ticket number (starting with 978) or booking reference (6 alphanumeric characters). A passport or ID number is required for international flights; domestic flights require either a passport or Vietnamese ID card (CMND/CCCD). If you are checking in for an infant or child, the same booking reference covers them, but you may need to provide their travel document details manually if not already stored.
Mobile App Check-In
VietJet’s official mobile app (available on iOS and Android) offers a similar check‑in experience to the website, with additional features such as storing boarding passes offline and receiving flight status notifications. The app can be downloaded from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. To check in via the app:
- Open the VietJet app and tap “Check‑in”.
- Enter your booking reference and last name, or scan the barcode on your e‑ticket.
- Select your flight and proceed through the steps as on the website.
- Save the boarding pass to your device’s wallet or camera roll.
- At the airport, show the digital boarding pass on your phone screen to security and at the gate.
The mobile app check‑in window is identical to web check‑in: 24 hours before departure until 1 hour (domestic) or 50 minutes (international) before. Mobile boarding passes are accepted at most airports served by VietJet, including Tan Son Nhat (SGN), Noi Bai (HAN), Da Nang (DAD), and international destinations such as Bangkok (BKK), Kuala Lumpur (KUL), and Singapore (SIN). However, some smaller airports may require a printed pass, check the “Airports Supported” list on VietJet’s website.
Passengers who check in via the app but later decide to add checked baggage can do so at the airport bag drop counter, but must pay the applicable baggage fee (see VietJet Baggage Fees 2024).
Airport Self-Service Kiosk Check-In
At major Vietnamese airports, VietJet operates self‑service kiosks that allow passengers to check in, select seats, print boarding passes, and even add checked baggage (bag drop counters are separate). Kiosks are located in the departure hall, usually near the VietJet check‑in row. As of 2024, kiosks are available at:
- Tan Son Nhat (SGN), Terminal 1 (domestic) and Terminal 2 (international).
- Noi Bai (HAN), Terminal 1.
- Da Nang (DAD), Terminal 1.
- Cam Ranh (Nha Trang, CXR), Terminal 1.
- Phu Quoc (PQC), Terminal 1.
Kiosk check‑in is free. To use a kiosk, you need to scan your passport or enter your booking reference. The machine will display your booking details, allow you to select a seat (with associated fees if choosing a premium seat), and print a boarding pass. For passengers with checked baggage, the printed boarding pass is taken to a dedicated bag drop counter. Kiosks generally open 3 hours before departure and close 60 minutes before domestic flights and 50 minutes before international flights. Some airports may have shorter kiosk operating hours, plan accordingly.
Note that kiosk check‑in is not available for unaccompanied minors, passengers with special needs, or those requiring visa checks. Those passengers must use the counter check‑in.
Airport Counter Check-In
If you prefer human interaction or have a complex booking (e.g., group travel, infants, pets, or special assistance), you must check in at the VietJet ticket counter at the airport. Counter check‑in is also necessary if you did not check in online or via kiosk and need to check in on the day of departure. Important details:
- Opening hours for domestic flights: Counters open 2 hours before departure and close 40 minutes before departure. However, some airports (especially small regional ones) may open only 90 minutes before. Always arrive at least 2 hours before a domestic flight to be safe.
- Opening hours for international flights: Counters open 3 hours before departure and close 50 minutes before departure. For long‑haul routes (e.g., to Japan, South Korea, Australia), counters may open 4 hours before. VietJet recommends arriving 3 hours before international departures.
- Check‑in fees at counters: VietJet charges a counter check‑in fee for passengers who have not checked in online and then present themselves at the counter. As of 2024, the fee is 50,000 VND (approximately S$3) per passenger per sector for domestic flights, and 100,000 VND (S$6) for international flights. This fee is waived for passengers with checked baggage who have already checked in online but need to drop bags, the bag drop counter does not charge a fee. However, if you simply walk up to the counter without having web checked‑in and do not require baggage drop, the fee applies.
- Payment methods: Counter check‑in fees, seat selection, and baggage payments can be made by cash (VND), credit/debit card (Visa, Mastercard, JCB), or local payment apps (MoMo, Vietcombank).
Important Deadlines and Late Check-In
Missing the check‑in deadline can result in denied boarding and loss of ticket. The table below summarises cut‑off times:
| Flight Type | Web/Mobile Check‑In Closes | Kiosk Check‑In Closes | Counter Check‑In Closes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Domestic (Vietnam) | 1 hour before | 60 min before | 40 min before |
| International (excl. Australia) | 50 min before | 50 min before | 50 min before |
| Australia (e.g., SYD, MEL) | 60 min before | 60 min before | 60 min before |
If you arrive after the counter closing time, VietJet may refuse to accept you for check‑in, and you will need to purchase a new ticket. No refunds or rebooking options are offered for no‑shows or late arrivals, except in cases of flight cancellations or schedule changes by VietJet. For tips on avoiding common booking mistakes, see AirAsia Booking Mistakes to Avoid (many apply to low‑cost carriers generally).
Baggage Drop and Counter Check-In for Baggage
Passengers who have checked in online or via the app and have only carry‑on baggage can proceed directly to security and the gate, as long as their boarding pass is accepted at the security checkpoint. Those with checked baggage must proceed to a bag drop counter (sometimes labelled “Baggage Drop” or “Bag Drop”). Bag drop counters are typically located near the check‑in counters and open at the same time as counters. The bag drop deadline is the same as the counter closing time, 40 minutes domestic, 50 minutes international. You must present your printed or digital boarding pass and your passport. The weight of each checked bag is verified; if it exceeds the allowance purchased, you will be charged excess baggage fees. For a comprehensive guide to VietJet baggage fees, refer to VietJet Baggage Fees 2024.
Carry‑On Baggage Rules
VietJet allows each passenger one piece of carry‑on baggage with total dimensions not exceeding 56 cm x 36 cm x 23 cm (22 in x 14 in x 9 in) and a maximum weight of 7 kg. Additionally, a small personal item (handbag, laptop bag, duty‑free bag) is permitted. Infants (under 2 years) are not entitled to a separate carry‑on allowance but may bring essential baby items (e.g., baby food, nappies) in reasonable quantities. For a comparison with other low‑cost carriers, see Scoot Cabin Baggage Rules 2024.
Checked Baggage Fees
Checked baggage is not included in the base fare for most VietJet tickets (except some Eco Premium fares). Passengers must purchase checked baggage allowance either at booking, during online check‑in, or at the airport. Pre‑purchased baggage is cheaper. As of 2024, domestic pre‑purchased 20 kg costs around 120,000 VND (S$7) per segment, while 30 kg costs 200,000 VND (S$12). International pre‑purchased 20 kg costs 400,000-600,000 VND (S$24, S$36), depending on route. Baggage purchased at the airport counter is 30-50% more expensive. For more on similar policies, read Jetstar Asia Baggage Fees Updated and AirAsia Baggage Allowance Guide.
Special Cases: Group Bookings, Infants, and Unaccompanied Minors
Group bookings (10 or more passengers) cannot check in online or via kiosk. The group leader must contact VietJet’s group desk at least 48 hours before departure to arrange check‑in. At the airport, the entire group must check in together at a dedicated group counter.
Infants (under 2 years) do not have a separate check‑in process, they are included in the accompanying adult’s booking. The adult checks in normally and informs the agent at the counter or bag drop that they are travelling with an infant. A boarding pass for the infant will be issued. Infants must be seated on the adult’s lap; no separate seat is allowed. Infant fares are typically 10-20% of the adult fare plus taxes.
Unaccompanied minors (aged 12-17 travelling alone, or children 2-11 travelling without a chaperone) are not accepted by VietJet on any flight. Children aged 2-11 may travel only when accompanied by a passenger aged 18 or older. Therefore, unaccompanied minor service is not offered. If a child books under a separate booking, VietJet may refuse boarding at check‑in. Always book the child on the same booking as the adult.
Passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility are advised to contact VietJet at least 48 hours before departure to request assistance (wheelchair, guided boarding). At the airport, they should proceed to the counter and not use web or kiosk check‑in. VietJet provides free assistance at Vietnamese airports, but advance notice is required. For more information on low‑cost carrier policies, see the complete guide to flying low‑cost carriers from Singapore and the region.
What to Do at the Airport After Check-In
Once you have your boarding pass (either printed or mobile), proceed to security screening. At Vietnamese airports, domestic security checkpoints typically open 2-3 hours before the first flight of the day and close after the last departure. Liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers of 100 ml or less and placed in a clear, resealable bag. Laptops and tablets must be removed from bags for scanning. After security, proceed to the departure gate indicated on your boarding pass. Gates are usually assigned 30-40 minutes before departure and may change, monitor flight information displays (FIDs). Boarding begins approximately 30 minutes before departure and closes 10 minutes before departure. Latecomers may be denied boarding. VietJet does not issue refunds for missed departures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I check in online if I have checked baggage?
Yes. You can check in online, receive a boarding pass, and then proceed to the bag drop counter at the airport. You do not need to queue at the check‑in counter unless you need to make changes to your booking.
Do I need to print my boarding pass?
Not necessarily. VietJet accepts mobile boarding passes at most airports. However, if your phone battery dies or the boarding pass fails to scan, you may be asked to obtain a printed one from a kiosk or counter (free of charge). It is safer to print a backup.
What happens if I miss the web check‑in window?
If you miss the web check‑in window (i.e., less than 1 hour before domestic or 50 minutes before international), you must go directly to the airport counter. The counter check‑in fee applies. If you arrive after the counter closes, you will be considered a no‑show and lose your ticket.
Can I change my seat after checking in?
Seat changes after check‑in are possible at the airport counter or gate, subject to availability. A seat change fee of 50,000-100,000 VND (domestic) or 150,000-300,000 VND (international) may apply, plus any fare difference if upgrading to a premium seat. For more, see VietJet: Book Like a Pro.
Do I need to show my visa at check‑in?
For international flights, you must present a valid passport and any required visa (or visa exemption letter) at the counter or bag drop. VietJet’s ground staff will verify travel documents. Failure to provide correct documents may result in denied boarding without refund.
Is check‑in available for flights departing from Singapore (SIN)?
Yes. VietJet flies to Singapore from Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang. At Singapore Changi Airport, web and mobile check‑in are available. Airport counters open 3 hours before departure. VietJet uses Terminal 4 (T4) for departures. Note that kiosk check‑in is not available in Singapore; passengers must use the counter or web check‑in. For general advice on low‑cost travel from Singapore, see the complete guide to flying low‑cost carriers from Singapore and the region.
Tips for a Smooth VietJet Check-In Experience
- Check in online exactly 24 hours before departure to secure your preferred seat (if you have not already selected one) and avoid queues at the airport.
- If you have checked baggage, still use web check‑in, you will bypass the main queue and head directly to the bag drop counter. This can save 15-30 minutes.
- Double‑check your travel documents, especially for international flights. Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry, and you have the correct visa printed out.
- Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights. Even if you have checked in online, bag drop and security can take longer than expected.
- Keep your boarding pass accessible, either printed or on your phone. Do not store it in a checked bag.
- Monitor flight status via the VietJet app or website for any schedule changes. VietJet sometimes adjusts departure times with short notice.
- Pay baggage fees online before the airport to save money. The difference between pre‑purchased and airport‑purchased baggage can be 30-50%. For more on baggage costs, see VietJet Baggage Fees 2024.
- If you are travelling in a group, call VietJet’s group booking line at +84 1900 1886 (Vietnam) at least 48 hours in advance to arrange group check‑in.