How it works

Layover Pass answers three questions for long connections: can you leave the airport, how much time you really have outside, and what to do with it.

Where the rules come from

Each transit and entry rule is taken from the official government immigration or e-visa website of the country you pass through, or from the airline's official visa page when the rule is airline-specific (like transit visas). We link that page under every answer, so you can check it yourself in one click.

What "researched" means

It's the date we last opened the official source and wrote down the rule. Rules change, sometimes overnight, so we re-check every airport on a schedule and straight away when we hear of a change. If a source is unclear or sources disagree, we say so instead of guessing.

How the time maths works

From your layover length we subtract:

  1. the typical time to land, get through immigration and out of the terminal at that airport;
  2. the trip to the main sights and back, by the fastest reliable option;
  3. 2 hours before departure to clear security and immigration again and reach your gate.

What's left is your real time outside. If it's under 90 minutes, we suggest staying in the airport. It isn't worth the risk for a rushed hour.

What the answers mean

  • Yes, you can leave Your passport can enter without arranging a visa in advance. You may still need an online arrival card.
  • Yes, with conditions You can enter if you meet a condition, such as holding a US or UK visa, or having a hotel booking.
  • Only with a visa arranged before you fly You need a visa, e-visa or transit visa before you travel.
  • Unclear: confirm before you fly Sources disagree or we couldn't confirm the rule. Check the official page.

Always confirm

Airlines check your documents before you fly and can refuse boarding. Confirm with your airline and the official source before relying on any answer here. Found something out of date? Tell us and we'll check it.