Virgin Australia Check-In Guide: Your Step-by-Step Companion for a Smooth Departure
Flying with Virgin Australia means enjoying world-class service, comfort, and precision. To enhance your travel experience from the start, the airline offers a range of flexible check-in options tailored to suit different passenger needs. Whether you’re jetting off on a regional journey or heading overseas, understanding the check-in process can help you save time, reduce stress, and get your trip off to the right start.
Here’s everything you need to know about Virgin Australia check-in — including methods, deadlines, tips, and answers to common questions.
Check-In Methods Offered by Virgin Australia
Virgin Australia gives passengers several check-in options to fit their travel habits and preferences. These include:
- Online Check-In (via website)
- Mobile App Check-In
- Airport Counter Check-In
- Self-Service Kiosk Check-In
Each method is designed to make your airport experience more efficient and tailored to your needs.
Online Check-In: The Efficient At-Home Option
Virgin Australia' online check-in portal becomes available 48 hours before departure and closes 90 minutes before takeoff. To use it, simply enter your e-ticket number or booking code along with your last name on the official Virgin Australia website.
With online check-in, you can:
- Pick or change your seat
- Add frequent flyer info (like your Marco Polo Club number)
- Access and print your boarding pass or save it to your phone
If you’re traveling with carry-on only, you can head straight to the security gate once at the airport. If you’re checking bags, look for Virgin Australia’ dedicated bag drop counters, which usually open three hours prior to flight time.
Check In Using the Virgin Australia Mobile App
For travelers on the go, the Virgin Australia app (available on Android and iOS) provides a seamless mobile check-in experience. This option also opens 48 hours before your flight and closes 90 minutes ahead of departure.
Using the app, you can:
- Check in within minutes
- Select or update your seat
- Get a mobile boarding pass
- Store the pass in Apple Wallet or Google Pay
- Receive flight updates and gate notifications
This is especially helpful for frequent flyers, as the app integrates your bookings, status, and loyalty points.
Airport Counter Check-In: Face-to-Face Assistance
If you’d rather check in at the airport or need extra help, staffed counters are available at all Virgin Australia terminals. These typically open:
- 3 hours before international flights
- 2 hours before regional flights
Check-in deadlines are as follows:
- International flights: Counters close 60 minutes before departure
- Domestic/regional flights: Counters close 40 minutes before departure
If you're traveling with children, oversized baggage, or need document verification, it’s wise to arrive 2–3 hours ahead of your scheduled departure.
Self-Service Kiosks: A Quick, Contactless Solution
Virgin Australia also offers self-service kiosks at major airports such as Tokyo Narita and Hong Kong International Airport. These kiosks allow you to:
- Retrieve your booking
- Modify seat selections
- Print boarding passes
- Print luggage tags
After tagging your baggage, you’ll drop it off at a designated counter. This is ideal for tech-savvy travelers who want to avoid lines and limit face-to-face contact.
Virgin Australia Baggage Guidelines During Check-In
Baggage allowances vary by ticket class:
- Economy: 1–2 bags (up to 23 kg each)
- Business: 2 bags (up to 32 kg each)
- First Class: Typically 3 bags (up to 32 kg each)
- Carry-on: 1 bag (up to 7 kg) + 1 personal item
Always verify your ticket to confirm your specific allowance. Oversized or extra luggage may result in additional fees or require adjustments at the counter.
Services for Families and Travelers with Special Needs
Virgin Australia provides helpful support for passengers requiring extra assistance. Be sure to contact the airline at least 48 hours before your flight if you:
- Need wheelchair service
- Are traveling with infants or young children
- Require medical accommodations or equipment
- Have dietary restrictions
Priority check-in lanes are typically offered for:
- Families with small children
- Travelers needing mobility or medical assistance
- Business and First Class passengers
- Marco Polo Club and oneworld elite members
Document Verification for International Travelers
Even if you check in online or via the app, international travelers must still complete document verification at the airport. You’ll need to present:
- A valid passport
- Any required visas
- Health declarations or vaccination certificates (if applicable)
Have these ready and accessible to ensure a smooth check-in process.
What to Know About Codeshare Flights and Partner ***
If your flight includes a leg operated by a Virgin Australia codeshare partner (such as other oneworld alliance airlines), you may need to follow different check-in procedures. If all segments are booked under one ticket, Virgin Australia will typically provide your boarding passes and handle baggage all the way to your destination. For separately booked segments, you may need to check in again with the operating airline.
Hong Kong In-Town Check-In: Extra Convenience Before You Fly
Travelers departing from Hong Kong can enjoy Virgin Australia’ in-town check-in service at the Airport Express stations in Central and Kowloon. This service is available up to 24 hours in advance and lets you:
- Check in and get your boarding pass early
- Drop off your checked baggage
- Explore the city freely before heading to the airport
This is a popular option among business travelers and tourists alike.
Check-In Timetable Overview
Check-In Method
Opens
Closes
Online / Mobile
48 hours before departure
90 minutes before departure
Airport Counter
~2–3 hours before departure
60 min (intl) / 40 min (regional)
Boarding Gate
—
15–20 minutes before departure
Missing these deadlines could result in denied boarding, so plan accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions About JAL Check-In
Can I change my seat after I check in?
Yes, if seats are available, you can change it via the app or website.
What if the app isn’t working?
Try reinstalling or updating it. You can also use the website or visit a check-in desk.
Can I check in online with an infant?
Yes, but you may still need to confirm certain services at the airport, like a bassinet.
How do I check in oversized baggage?
Bring it to the check-in counter and notify the staff. Additional charges may apply.
Do I need to re-check in for connecting flights?
No, as long as your itinerary is on a single ticket with JAL or a partner airline.
Can I check in for my return flight too?
Only if it’s within 48 hours of the return leg.
Final Thoughts
Virgin Australia check-in options are thoughtfully built to meet the needs of today’s travelers. Whether you prefer handling it all online, using your phone, or getting help at the airport, JAL offers a reliable, flexible system that helps you get to your gate stress-free. The key is to plan ahead, choose the method that suits your situation, and make sure your documents are in order.
With Virgin Australia, your journey begins the moment you check in — make it seamless and smart from the start.


