How long does it take to get through customs in Istanbul?

Getting through customs and passport control at Istanbul Airport (IST) typically takes between 30 and 60 minutes, though it can take up to 2 hours during peak times. For most travelers, the process is efficient, with immigration, baggage claim, and customs usually completed within 45 minutes to an hour after landing.

How long does it take to clear customs at Istanbul Airport?

It can vary based on factors such as Istanbul Airport's current passenger volume and staffing levels. If you're traveling on a foreign passport, it can take 50-60 minutes to get through immigration at Istanbul Airport.

Is 1 hour transfer time enough at Istanbul Airport?

Here are some additional tips for transiting via Istanbul Airport: Allow at least 1.5 hours for your transit. This will give you enough time to go through all of the necessary procedures and get to your boarding gate.

Is 3 hours enough for customs?

It's recommended to allow at least 2 to 3 hours for the connection. This accounts for the time needed to clear Immigration and Customs, re-check your luggage, go through security, and reach your domestic departure gate. For connections under one hour, we encourage you to alert your airline.

How busy is Istanbul Airport?

Istanbul serves as one of the largest aviation hubs in the world, with two international airports, handling 132,878,178 passengers in 2025. Istanbul Airport, which handled about 84 million passengers in 2025, is the largest and second-busiest international airport in Europe.

"Istanbul Airport Arrival Guide: What to Expect After You Land"

Is Istanbul Airport busier than Heathrow?

Istanbul Airport has officially dethroned London Heathrow as Europe's busiest airport, according to new October 2025 data from OAG. The Turkish mega-hub handled 4.53 million one-way seats this month — up 9% year-on-year — edging out Heathrow's 4.47 million.

Is Istanbul Airport easy to navigate?

Despite its immense size, Istanbul Airport is designed for easy navigation. The single-terminal layout and clear wayfinding systems help passengers move through the space efficiently. From finding your check-in desk to locating your departure gate, the airport provides numerous tools and services to guide you.

What is the 45 minute rule?

Check-In Times at U.S. Airports

For most airports, when traveling domestically, baggage must be checked in at least 45 minutes before your scheduled departure time (airports requiring additional time for check-in or baggage acceptance are listed below, Go to footer note).

What are common mistakes people make at customs?

• Mistake: Digging around for documents at the last minute. Solution: Use a dedicated travel wallet. ...
• Mistake: Forgetting to declare items. Solution: Keep a packing list. ...
• Mistake: Packing the wrong snacks. Solution: Keep sealed snacks in your carry-on. ...
• Mistake: Overpacking liquids in your carry-on.

What happens if I miss my flight due to a short layover?

The airline will generally try to put you on their next available flight. If the next flight is fully booked, they might put you on standby, which means that you can take the place of any passengers that don't show up.

Do I have to go through customs for a connecting flight in Istanbul?

So, Do I Need to Go Through Customs in Istanbul? If your tickets are on a single reservation (the same ticket), you generally should not need to go through customs or passport control in Istanbul. Your luggage should be transferred automatically by the airline, and you will remain in the international transit area.

Is Istanbul a walkable city?

Istanbul is a largely walkable city, with major attractions like the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Sultanahmet Square, all within a short walk of each other.

Is 2 hours enough to transfer in Istanbul Airport?

To make an international to domestic connection: 1.5 hours

If you're connecting at IST, give yourself a minimum of 90 minutes to go through customs and immigration. Note that some domestic flights arrive and depart from Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW).

How to get through customs faster at the airport?

Choosing a seat near the front will help you avoid the queues.

1. Fill out the forms fast. You do not need to write quickly but you should try and fill out all customs or immigration control forms as soon as possible. ...
2. Take the stairs, not the elevator. People love the comfort of elevators. ...
3. Have your documents ready.

What are you not allowed to bring into Turkey?

There are some Turkey prohibited items such as fresh or packaged food, fruit, eggs, meat, dairy products. Pack or two of cookies will not cause any problems though. There is no limit on currency but you will need to declare amounts over 3000 GBP.

What is the 3-3-3 rule for flights?

Each passenger may carry liquids, gels and aerosols in travel-size containers that are 3.4 ounces or100 milliliters. Each passenger is limited to one quart-size bag of liquids, gels and aerosols.

What 7 things should you not wear on a plane?

We Asked 7 Travel Experts What Not to Wear On a Flight—Here's What to Avoid

• Stay away from clothing that's too tight.
• Steer clear of clothing that drags on the floor.
• And, trust us, no rompers.
• Avoid bulky outerwear.
• Keep the high heels in your checked bag.
• Stow those flip-flops while you're at it.

What is the 20 minute bag rule?

The 20-minute bag rule is Delta Air Lines' baggage guarantee that offers 2,500 SkyMiles if checked luggage does not arrive at baggage claim within 20 minutes of the aircraft reaching the gate on eligible Delta-operated flights (+1}^{855}-{838}+{4886).

How much time should I allow between connecting flights?

Domestic flights: At least 60 minutes, especially at larger airports or if you're changing terminals. International flights: At least 2-3 hours to give yourself breathing room for customs, immigration and security checks.

Is English spoken at Istanbul Airport?

Istanbul Airport (IST/LTFM) is primarily a multilingual hub, with Turkish and English being the predominant languages spoken throughout the facility. As the national language of Turkey, Turkish is the main language used for all signage, announcements, and communication from airport staff.