Apple and United team up for instant vaccine verification on your iPhone
United Airlines is making it easier to submit proof of vaccination before your flight.
The Chicago-based carrier is partnering with Apple to enable a direct connection between the airline's mobile app and your iPhone's built-in Health app.
If you have a COVID-19 vaccine certificate stored in the Health app, you'll now be able to upload it directly into the United app — without requiring any additional work on your part. No more photos or scrambling for your paper vaccination card.
When you have an upcoming flight to a destination that requires proof of vaccination, United's Travel-Ready Center will prompt you to upload your certificate before check-in opens. You'll still have the option to upload a picture of your paper-based card, but using the Apple Health method will be your best bet.
That's because your vaccine card will be instantly verified by United, without requiring a manual scan by a remote agent. When you authorize the Travel-Ready Center to access your digital immunization record, it'll be automatically uploaded and verified on United's system, and the records will be stored until you complete your travels.
For now, the iPhone Health app supports vaccine cards that meet the SMART Health Cards specification, which is only being used by health agencies in four states: California, Louisiana, New York and select locations in Maryland.
Related: See if you're eligible for Apple's new TSA-approved digital driver's license
Additionally, if you were vaccinated at a Walmart, Sam's Club or CVS Health pharmacy, your vaccine information is likely stored in the SMART Health Card system. You can find a full list of participating providers here.
In addition to the new United tie-up, you'll soon be able to add your digital vaccine card to your iPhone's mobile Wallet. With the Wallet integration, it'll be easier than ever to quickly show proof of vaccination as you enter a place of business, like a gym, restaurant, airport lounge or even a hotel, that requires one.
TPG featured card
at Capital One's secure site
Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees.
| 5X miles | Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel |
| 2X miles | Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day |
Pros
- Stellar welcome offer of 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. Plus, a $250 Capital One Travel credit to use in your first cardholder year upon account opening.
- You'll earn 2 miles per dollar on every purchase, which means you won't have to worry about memorizing bonus categories
- Rewards are versatile and can be redeemed for a statement credit or transferred to Capital One’s transfer partners
Cons
- Highest bonus-earning categories only on travel booked via Capital One Travel
- LIMITED-TIME OFFER: Enjoy $250 to use on Capital One Travel in your first cardholder year, plus earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening - that’s equal to $1,000 in travel
- Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
- Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
- Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
- Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
- Enjoy a $50 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Lifestyle Collection
- Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
- Top rated mobile app