Another reason that your boarding pass may say “see agent” is that certain travel documents need to be verified. If you had not previously selected a seat, some airlines cannot automatically issue a boarding pass with a seat assignment until the documents are checked.

Seeing the message "Please check-in with an agent" at an airport kiosk or on your mobile app can be frustrating, but it usually signifies a document or security requirement that an automated system cannot verify. In 2026, the most common reason is International Visa Verification; if you are traveling to a country that requires a visa or a specific entry permit, an airline agent must physically (or digitally) verify your passport and "Right to Abode" before a boarding pass can be issued. Other reasons include: Selectee status (SSSS), which indicates you have been chosen for secondary security screening; Document inconsistencies, such as a name on the ticket not perfectly matching the passport's digital strip; or travel with a lap infant, which often requires manual seat assignment adjustments. It can also happen if you have been flagged for a schedule change that requires you to acknowledge a new connection, or if you are flying on a "Standby" or "Buddy Pass" where a seat hasn't been confirmed yet. While it often means waiting in a line, it is essentially the airline's "final safety check" to ensure you won't be denied entry or deported upon arrival at your destination.