Do I have to go through immigration for a connecting flight in the UK?

Do I Need to Go Through Immigration for a Connecting Flight in the UK?

When traveling through the UK, understanding the immigration requirements for connecting flights is crucial. In most cases, passengers can bypass immigration when connecting between international flights. However, there are some exceptions to this rule.

General Rule: No Immigration for International-to-International Connections

For connecting flights between two international destinations, UK passengers generally do not need to go through immigration. Instead, they can proceed directly to their connecting flight without passing through border control. This is known as “airside transit.”

Exceptions for Certain International Connections

There are a few exceptions to the general rule of no immigration for connecting flights. These include:

• International-to-Domestic Connections: If your connecting flight is to a domestic destination within the UK, you will need to go through immigration and collect your checked baggage before re-checking it for your domestic flight.
• International-to-UK/Republic of Ireland Connections: If your connecting flight is to the UK or the Republic of Ireland, you will also need to go through immigration. This is due to the Common Travel Area agreement between the UK and Ireland.

Biometric Facial Recognition

For passengers who are required to go through immigration for connecting flights, the UK government has implemented a biometric facial recognition system. This system uses facial recognition technology to verify the identity of passengers, making the immigration process faster and more secure.

Comprehensive Guide for Flying Within the UK and Ireland

For further information on immigration requirements for connecting flights within the UK and Ireland, refer to the Flying within the UK and Ireland guide. This guide provides comprehensive details on all aspects of connecting flights, including immigration procedures and luggage handling.

By following these guidelines, passengers can ensure a smooth and hassle-free connecting flight experience in the UK.