Roberta Aguirre
If you're wondering whether you can leave the airport during a layover, the short answer is yes. However, there are several factors to consider before you decide to exit the airport, such as the duration of your layover, whether you're travelling internationally or domestically, and the time it takes to get through security, customs, and immigration. If you're travelling internationally, you may need a transit visa to leave the airport, and you'll need to allow enough time to collect your luggage, go through customs, and check in your luggage again. For domestic travel, you may only need to go through security when you return to the airport, but it's still important to plan your trip and allow enough time to get back to the airport and go through any necessary checks.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Leaving a Canadian airport during a layover | Possible, but depends on various factors |
| Factors to consider | Time available between flights, international or domestic travel, baggage handling |
| Time required to return to the airport | 2-3 hours before the connecting flight |
| Visa requirements for layovers | Depends on country of origin and duration of layover |
| TSA precheck program | Allows faster security clearance for domestic flights |
| Travel documents for US citizens | Valid passport and Green Card/USLPR card |
| Travel documents for non-US citizens | Valid passport, visa, or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) |
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What You'll Learn
Leaving during a layover
Leaving the airport during a layover is possible, but there are several factors to consider before doing so. Firstly, the length of your layover is crucial. If your layover is too short, exiting the airport may not be feasible, as you need to account for the time it takes to deboard, exit the airport, secure transportation, and return in time for your next flight.
Secondly, the type of travel (domestic or international) impacts the feasibility of leaving during a layover. When travelling domestically, it is generally easier to leave the airport, as you only need to go through security upon your return. However, for international travel, you may need to go through immigration and customs twice, and the process of re-checking luggage can be time-consuming. Some countries may also require you to secure a transit visa before being allowed to leave the airport. Therefore, it is important to be familiar with the rules and regulations of the country where you have a layover.
Thirdly, how your baggage is handled will affect your decision. If your baggage is transferred directly from one plane to another, you can explore with just your carry-on luggage. However, if you need to collect your baggage before going through customs, it may be cumbersome to explore with full suitcases. Additionally, many airlines only operate baggage-dropping services a few hours before takeoff, so finding a place to store your luggage during a layover can be challenging.
Lastly, always allow for unexpected delays when planning your return to the airport. Traffic jams or similar delays can cause you to miss your connecting flight. It is recommended to be back at the airport at least two to three hours before an international flight to account for security screening, check-in, customs, and immigration.
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Visa requirements
The visa requirements for entering Canada depend on where you are from, how you are travelling, and what documents you are travelling with.
Transit Visas
If you are connecting between two international flights at a Canadian airport, you will need a transit visa if the following conditions apply:
- You are from a visa-required country.
- Your transit through Canada will last 48 hours or less.
- You do not have a valid visitor visa.
- You are not eligible for an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization).
US citizens and lawful permanent residents of the US can transit through Canada without a visa. They need to bring the right travel documents, such as a valid US passport.
Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
You need an eTA to transit through Canada by air if you are from an eTA-required country. The eTA must be linked to your passport. If you get a new passport, you will need to apply for a new eTA.
If you are transiting through Canada by train, bus, boat, or cruise ship, you do not need an eTA. However, you must bring the appropriate travel documents.
Visitor Visas
If you are leaving and returning to Canada, you must ensure you have the necessary documents to re-enter the country. If you do not have a valid visa when checking in for a flight, you may experience travel delays or miss your flight.
If you are returning directly from the US or St. Pierre and Miquelon and your study or work permit is still valid, you do not need a visitor visa.
Other Requirements
All international travellers must carry acceptable identification when entering Canada, such as a passport or any official document used for travel. Canadian citizens, including dual citizens, must travel with a valid Canadian passport. Canadian permanent residents need a valid permanent resident card or permanent resident travel document.
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Customs and immigration
When entering Canada, Canadian citizens may face delays or be denied boarding if they do not have the correct documentation. Permanent residents need a valid permanent resident card to enter Canada.
The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) screens travellers landing in Canada at Pearson Airport. If you are arriving on a US or international flight, you will need to confirm your identity with CBSA and declare any goods that you are bringing into the country. You can use a primary inspection kiosk (PIK) to confirm your identity and submit your customs declaration. You can also use the Advance CBSA Declaration feature within the ArriveCAN app to fill in your customs and immigration declaration before arriving in Canada to save time.
If you are arriving by land, you will need to follow the signs to the first checkpoint, also known as "primary inspection". Here, a border services officer will examine your identification and other travel documents and take your verbal declaration. If you are arriving by private boat, you must go directly to a designated marine telephone reporting site and call the CBSA Telephone Reporting Centre (TRC) to obtain clearance.
If you are a NEXUS member, you can use the dedicated NEXUS kiosk or use your passport at one of the regular PIKs. Diplomats and their families should use the special services counter for in-person processing.
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Baggage handling
Air Canada outlines detailed instructions for passengers regarding checked baggage. Passengers are advised to use their checked baggage calculator to determine their free checked baggage allowance and any additional fees for exceeding the allowance. Air Canada also provides specific restrictions and guidelines for transporting special items, such as musical instruments, hunting gear, or sports equipment. Passengers are responsible for ensuring that their checked bags comply with security requirements, such as removing old airline tags and attaching identification tags with relevant contact information.
Montreal International Airport has also been working on creating a Smart Baggage Handling System (BHS) to optimize its operations. This system addresses challenges related to peak departure times, flight delays, and efficient utilization of screening and handling equipment. The BHS incorporates a High-Level Control (HLC) strategy, enabling dynamic decision-making based on multiple conditions, such as tray destinations and availability in parking areas.
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Transport options
If you have a lengthy stopover, you can leave the airport and visit the local area. However, if your stopover is short, it is not recommended that you leave the airport, especially if you have to pass through customs and security again.
If you are travelling internationally, you may need a visa to leave the airport. You will also need to go through customs and immigration upon exiting and returning to the airport. It is recommended that you allow at least three hours before your next flight to account for this.
If you are travelling domestically, you can move through security faster with the TSA precheck program. If you are an American citizen, you can leave the airport without going through customs and immigration. You should still allow enough time to get through security and be back at the airport at least two hours before your next flight.
To leave the airport, you can walk, take a taxi, or rent a car. Most terminals offer taxi services.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is possible to leave and re-enter a Canadian airport during a layover. However, there are several factors to consider, including the duration of your layover, whether you are travelling internationally or domestically, and the time it takes to exit the airport, reach your destination, and return.
When leaving a Canadian airport during a layover, you must ensure that you meet the necessary entry criteria, which may include presenting a valid visa, eTA, or other travel documentation. You will also need to go through security, customs, and immigration checks upon exiting and returning to the airport.
For domestic layovers, it is recommended to return to the airport at least two hours before your connecting flight. For international layovers, it is advised to allow three hours to ensure enough time for security screening, check-in, customs clearance, and immigration.
Leaving a Canadian airport during a long layover can provide an opportunity to explore a new city, visit local attractions, or connect with acquaintances. It can be a refreshing break from the airport environment and allow you to stretch your legs before your next flight.
