Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL) — Transit Guide
Transit and entry requirements at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport in Helsinki, Finland
Quick Facts
Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL) is a Schengen Area airport in Helsinki, Finland. Transiting here may require ETIAS or a transit visa depending on your nationality.
Airport HEL
City Helsinki
Country Finland
Schengen Yes
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Airport Code HEL
🏙️
City Helsinki
🇪🇺
Country Finland
🌍
Schengen Yes
Transit at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport
Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL) is located in Helsinki, Finland. As a Schengen Area airport, transiting here may require ETIAS or a Schengen transit visa, depending on your nationality.
If you're connecting between two flights that both stay within the Schengen Area, no additional entry is required. If arriving from outside the Schengen Area, you'll pass through border control.
Transit Requirements at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport by Nationality
- EU/EEA citizens Transit freely with passport or national ID. No visa, ETIAS, or other authorization needed.
- Visa-exempt nationals (US, UK, Canada, etc.) Can transit without a visa. ETIAS will be required from Q4 2026 (€20) — even for airside transit.
- Visa-required nationals May need a Schengen Airport Transit Visa (ATV) even for airside connections. Check with the embassy of Finland.
Transit FAQs — Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL)
Do I need a visa to transit through Helsinki-Vantaa Airport?
It depends on your nationality. EU citizens transit freely. Visa-exempt nationals will need ETIAS from Q4 2026. Some nationalities need a Schengen transit visa even for airside transit.
Is Helsinki-Vantaa Airport a Schengen airport?
Yes. Helsinki-Vantaa Airport is in Finland, a Schengen Area member. Arriving from outside the Schengen Area means passing through border control.
Can I leave the airport during a layover?
If you have valid entry authorization (ETIAS, Schengen visa, or EU passport), you can leave the airport and visit Helsinki during your layover.
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