Do transit passengers go through immigration?

Do Transit Passengers Need to Go Through Immigration?

When traveling internationally, transit passengers are those who have a connecting flight in a different country but do not plan to leave the airport. In general, transit passengers are not required to go through immigration if they remain airside, meaning they stay within the secure area of the airport.

Airside Transit

Airside transit involves staying within the designated sterile area of the airport, which is usually located after security and passport control. Transit passengers who remain airside do not need to go through immigration because they are not entering the country. They can simply follow signs for their connecting flight and proceed to their departure gate.

Departure from Airside

However, if a transit passenger needs to leave the airside area, such as to collect checked baggage or explore the city between flights, they will need to go through immigration. This is because they are considered to be entering the country.

Immigration Processing

Immigration processing involves presenting a passport and other travel documents to an immigration officer, who will verify the passenger’s identity and determine their eligibility to enter the country. Transit passengers will need to explain their reasons for leaving the airside area and present any necessary documentation, such as a visa or return ticket.

Exceptions

There are some exceptions to the general rule that transit passengers do not need to go through immigration. For example, some countries require transit passengers to go through immigration even if they remain airside. Additionally, transit passengers who are refused entry to the country or who are suspected of engaging in suspicious activities may be subject to immigration processing.

Conclusion

In most cases, international transit passengers who remain airside do not need to go through immigration. However, if they need to leave the airside area, they will need to undergo immigration processing. It is important to check the specific requirements for the country being transited to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.