I posted a question on the Transportation Forum about estimating time for clearing passport control and customs at London-Gatwick. I'd appreciate it if anyone with experience traveling through Gatwick take a look at it.
Thanks in advance, Matt
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32351 posts
Matt,
It's difficult to provide a precise answer to your question, as there are "variables". I usually use Gatwick for travel to the U.K. and the time to get through Passport control / Customs seems to vary a bit.
If there are several flights arriving at about the same time, the queue for "non-E.U." citizens can be quite long. It usually moves quite fast, but if you were one of the last to get off the plane you'll be at the end of the line (something to consider when you make your seat selection - I usually choose an aisle seat, partly for that reason).
I'd estimate at least an hour for Passport control, plus time waiting for your luggage to appear on the carousel (which is something else that varies).
Happy travels!
Posted by
Charlotte, NC, USA
3428 posts
What time of day are you arriving? We fly through Gatwick also. It really depends on time and how many flights arrive near yours. It can be anywhere from 15 min. to 1 hr. for passport- customs is just a walk-through if you have nothing to declare.
Posted by
Marion
177 posts
We passed thru Gatwick last week and I agree with Toni, It took about 45 Minutes. This was at about 8:30 Am. Line moved fairly smoothly. Hope this helps.
Posted by
Ardmore, PA, US
225 posts
We had the same experience as Richard. Same time of day and same time through customs.
Posted by
Sacramento
23 posts
Matt,
i was there in June. arrived about 8:30 on USair. there were about 2 people ahead of me in line so passport control/immigration took about 5 min. i think it took longer to walk to the passport control area than it took to get past the officials.