You're automatically eligible for a Complimentary Premier Upgrade as long as you are a Premier member (the higher your status, the earlier you become eligible for Complimentary Premier Upgrades and are flying on an eligible ticket on any eligible United-operated flight.

To achieve United Premier status in 2026, you must meet two main requirements within a single calendar year: a minimum number of flights and a specific amount of "spending." All members must fly at least 4 segments on United or United Express metal. Beyond that, status is earned through a combination of Premier Qualifying Flights (PQF) and Premier Qualifying Points (PQP). For the entry-level Premier Silver, you need 15 PQF and 5,000 PQP, or a flat 6,000 PQP. Premier Gold requires 30 PQF and 10,000 PQP (or 12,000 PQP), while Premier Platinum and 1K have even higher thresholds. PQP is generally earned at a rate of 1 per U.S. dollar spent on the base fare. You can also earn PQP through United-sponsored Chase credit cards (e.g., 25 PQP for every $500 spent). Once you meet the criteria, your status is usually updated within 48 hours and is valid for the remainder of the current year plus the entire following year, granting perks like complimentary Economy Plus seating, priority boarding, and free checked bags.