Do you need to go through customs on connecting flights in Lisbon?

Navigating Lisbon Airport: Connecting Flights and Customs Procedures

Lisbon’s Portela Airport, officially known as Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS), serves as a major European hub, handling numerous connecting flights daily. While convenient for reaching various destinations, understanding the airport’s procedures, particularly regarding customs and security for connecting passengers, is crucial for a smooth travel experience. One common question arises: Do you need to go through customs on connecting flights in Lisbon, even if you only have cabin baggage?

The short answer is: yes, a specific customs procedure is required. Even if you’re not leaving the airport, connecting passengers with only cabin baggage must pass through the designated Customs corridor before proceeding to their next flight’s check-in counter or gate. This might seem counterintuitive, especially when your luggage remains with you and your final destination is outside Portugal. However, this procedure is in place for all connecting passengers regardless of their final destination.

After exiting your arriving flight and following the signs for connecting flights, you’ll be directed through a Customs corridor. This isn’t a full customs check in the traditional sense, where your baggage is inspected. Instead, it acts as a checkpoint to ensure passengers are following the correct transfer procedures within the airport. Think of it as a mandatory transit point.

Importantly, after passing through this Customs corridor, you will encounter another security checkpoint. Yes, even though you’ve already undergone security screening at your departure airport, you will need to repeat the process in Lisbon. This means removing liquids, electronics, and belts, just as you did before your initial flight. Be prepared for potential queues, especially during peak travel times.

Therefore, when planning your connection through Lisbon, factor in extra time for navigating the Customs corridor and the subsequent security check. While it may seem like an extra step, understanding this procedure will help avoid any unexpected delays and ensure a smoother transition to your connecting flight. Keeping your travel documents readily accessible and adhering to security regulations will further expedite the process, allowing for a less stressful and more efficient journey through Lisbon Airport.

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