Did you know that over 90% of all Emirates passengers use Online Check-in? This service not only saves valuable time but also makes the check-in process extremely comfortable. In this comprehensive guide, you will find all the necessary information for the Emirates Online Check-in – from required documents to practical tips for a relaxed start to your holiday.

Online Check-in with Emirates – Key Topics:

Emirates Online Check-in in 7 Steps

What do you need to know about Online Check-in? Simply follow our detailed step-by-step instructions to be fully prepared:

1. Visit the Check-in Page: Go to the official Emirates website and navigate to the "Online Check-in" section.

2. Enter Data: Enter your last name and your Booking Reference (also called "PNR" or "Filekey"). This code is 6 characters long and consists of a combination of numbers and letters.

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3. Check Upgrade Options: Occasionally, Emirates offers an upgrade at this stage. If you wish to accept this offer at the displayed price, you can book it here. Otherwise, simply skip this step.

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4. Select Passengers: Now select all passengers from the booking for whom you wish to perform the check-in.

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5. Advanced Passenger Information (APIS): Depending on the destination country, you may be asked to enter additional data (e.g., passport or visa details).

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6. Seats and Frequent Flyer Number: Before completing the process, you have the option to check or change seat selection and – if not already done – add your Emirates Skywards number.

7. Receive Boarding Pass: After successful check-in, you can either print your boarding passes or download them directly to your mobile device.

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You are now optimally prepared for your flight!

Go directly to Emirates Online Check-in

Emirates Check-in

When is Online Check-in Available?

When does the check-in window close? Online Check-in closes strictly 90 minutes before the scheduled departure. We strongly recommend arriving at the airport at least 90 minutes – ideally 2 hours – before departure. This gives you enough buffer for baggage drop-off and security checks.

When can I check in? Emirates opens Online Check-in 48 hours before departure. During this period, passengers with a valid Booking Reference (PNR) can check in comfortably from home.

Description

Time Period
Online Check-in Opening 48 hours before departure
Online Check-in Closing 90 minutes before departure

Check detailed check-in deadlines

Seat Reservation with Emirates

How does seat selection work? Emirates automatically assigns you a seat free of charge during Online Check-in. If you wish to change this, fees may apply depending on your fare type. For travelers with infants or medical requirements, seats can often be adjusted free of charge.

Good to know: Children between 2 and 12 years traveling with adults receive a 50% discount on regular and preferred seat reservations.

Fare Type

Regular ($7-$40)

Preferred ($15-$100)
Economy Special Fee applies Fee applies
Economy Saver Fee applies Fee applies
Economy Flex Free Fee applies
Economy Flex Plus Free Free (Lower deck preferred)

More about Seat Selection

3D Seating Charts: Find the Perfect Seat

Unsure about your seat choice? Emirates offers an innovative feature: On their website, you can find realistic 3D seating charts to explore the cabin virtually before deciding.

Emirates Seating

Baggage Drop-off with Emirates

How does baggage drop-off work after Online Check-in? Since you have already checked in, there is no need to queue at the regular check-in counter. Instead, proceed directly to the "Baggage Drop-off" counter, where waiting times are usually much shorter. At many airports, Self-Service Kiosks are also available.

Tip for departures from Dubai & USA: In Dubai, you can drop off baggage 24 hours before departure, and in the USA up to 12 hours before, to save time on the day of travel.

Baggage Allowance: Americas & Africa (Piece Concept)

Economy Class

 1 piece, max. 23 kg (for Special fares)

Economy Saver, Flex, Flex Plus & Premium

 2 pieces, max. 23 kg each

Business & First Class

 2 pieces, max. 32 kg each

Baggage Allowance: Within Americas & USA ↔ Europe

Economy Class

 1 piece, max. 23 kg (Special & Saver fares)

Economy Flex, Flex Plus & Premium

 2 pieces, max. 23 kg each

Business & First Class

 2 pieces, max. 32 kg each

Important: The total dimensions (length + width + height) of a bag must not exceed 150 cm.

Weight Limit (Weight Concept for other routes)

Fare Brand

Special

Saver & Flex

Flex Plus

Economy Class

 20 kg 30 kg 35 kg

The maximum total dimensions (length + width + height) must not exceed 300 cm.

All Baggage Policy Details

Exceptions & Important Info for Online Check-in

What data is required?

To log in for Online Check-in, you only need your Last Name and the Booking Reference (PNR) from your e-ticket.

Depending on the destination, additional information may be requested, such as passport data, visa details, or contact information.

Checklist: Information to have ready
Passenger's Last Name
Booking Reference / PNR (6 digits)
Passport Data
Visa Information (if applicable)
Current Contact Details

Can multiple passengers check in together?

Yes, absolutely. With Emirates, up to nine (9) people (adults and children) can check in during one process, provided they are booked together.

Group Size

Joint Check-in
1 to 9 People Possible
10+ People Separate processes required

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions about Emirates Online Check-in

What are the benefits of Online Check-in?

You can complete formalities comfortably from home, secure seats early, avoid long queues at the counter, and go directly to baggage drop-off at the airport.

How do I start check-in?

Visit the Emirates website or app, enter your last name and booking reference, and follow the instructions.

When does Online Check-in open and close?

The window opens 48 hours before departure and closes exactly 90 minutes before scheduled departure.

What to do if Online Check-in doesn't work?

Ensure your flight is within the next 48 hours. If technical issues persist or check-in is denied (e.g., due to visa checks), please plan enough time to check in at the airport counter.

When should I be at the airport?

Emirates recommends arriving about 3 hours before departure. You should be checked in and have dropped off your bags no later than 60 minutes (Economy) or 45 minutes (Business/First) before takeoff.

ℹ️ Good to know about Istanbul

Istanbul is one of the most fascinating metropolises in the world and the only city that spans two continents, Europe and Asia. Separated by the majestic Bosphorus, Istanbul bridges the traditions of the East with the modernity of the West. With over 2,500 years of history, it was the capital of three world empires: the Roman, the Byzantine, and the Ottoman Empires.

The historic heart of the city beats on the Sultanahmet peninsula. Here lie world-famous masterpieces such as the Hagia Sophia with its immense dome and the Blue Mosque, known for its six minarets and blue Iznik tiles. Just a few steps away, the Topkapi Palace, the former residence of the Ottoman sultans, invites visitors on a journey into the past.

Shopping and Lifestyle

No visit to Istanbul is complete without a stroll through the Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı). With over 4,000 shops, it is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. Here, visitors find everything from hand-knotted carpets and gold jewelry to leather goods and souvenirs. The nearby Spice Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı) seduces the senses with the scent of exotic spices, Turkish Delight (Lokum), and freshly ground coffee.

To truly feel the soul of Istanbul, one must take a boat tour on the Bosphorus. From the water, one enjoys an unparalleled view of the city's silhouette, passing magnificent wooden Ottoman mansions (Yalı), medieval fortresses, and modern suspension bridges.

Modern Istanbul

Beyond history, modern life pulsates around Taksim Square and Istiklal Street in the Beyoğlu district. Here, trendy boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and cafes line the streets. The historic red tram pushing through the crowds is a popular photo opportunity.

Istanbul is also a culinary paradise. Turkish cuisine offers infinite variety, from delicious street food like Simit (sesame ring) and Balık Ekmek (fish sandwich) to world-class restaurants overlooking the Bosphorus.

Travelassistant24 • Istanbul Guide