Visa & Passport Rules by Layover Duration

Visa and passport basics for layovers

Check entry rules before you leave the airport on a layover.

Entry vs. airside transit

  • Airside transit: Some airports allow you to stay airside without a visa if you do not clear immigration.
  • Entering the country: Requires meeting visa/ETA rules and passport validity.

Passport validity

  • Common requirement: 6 months validity beyond entry, but some allow less. Verify for your destination.
  • Blank pages: Some countries require 1-2 blank pages.

Visas/ETAs

  • Visa-free/VOA/e-visa depends on nationality and destination. Check official gov’t sites or IATA Timatic.
  • Separate tickets: You may need to re-check bags and re-enter; visa rules still apply.

Timing and buffers

  • If you need a visa and do not have it, stay airside.
  • Allow time for immigration queues; don’t cut it close.
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