Hi. We've received conflicting info regarding what to expect at the different airports. Any input as to whether we walk or bus to change terminals at Heathrow, do we go thru another security check at Heathrow before proceeding to Dublin, where should VAT be submitted, etc. All and any info is appreciated. Thank you
Posted by
Minneapolis, MN, USA
8700 posts
On the Heathrow site you can find out which terminal your airline(s) use and how to get between them. What airline(s) are you flying?
If you are flying on the same airline or on codeshare partner airlines from Canada to Heathrow and from Heathrow to Dublin, your luggage will be checked through to Dublin. You will stay airside and only have to go through security.
It will be a different story if you have to retrieve your luggage and check in for your flight to Dublin.
Posted by
Saskatoon, Canada
45 posts
Good afternoon!
I flew through Heathrow to get to Dublin this past summer from Canada and I was a little surprised by the process considering I wasn't staying in their country at all. So here is my advice for you! You can take a shuttle to change terminals if needed so don't worry about having to walk or bus. The process involves having your photo taken at one place, then you have to go through customs where they were not all that nice to me. It could be because I am mid twenties and I was backpacking with no fixed addresses so they may have thought I wasn't leaving the country, but either way, make sure to have your return ticket printed out and the addresses where you will be staying for your trip. Other things they did ask me for were proof that I had enough money to sustain my trip (so bank account information) and proof that I had my own health insurance. After that you have to go through another security check (so no liquids allowed again. The water I had gotten on the plane coming in wasn't allowed through) and then you go through the ticket place where they match you up to the picture you had taken previously. It was quite a lengthy process compared to what I'm used to in Canada so be prepared! Then you get to go though customs again once you reach Dublin, but that was much less stressful.
In terms of VAT, you can submit that in the Dublin airport when you leave. There are actual two forms associated with VAT so there are actually two different offices in the airport. Make sure to pay attention to which forms you have to know which office to go to (or both as I had to). Leave enough time in the airport as they can be lined up at the office.