London Gatwick Airport (LGW) — Transit Guide
Transit and entry requirements at London Gatwick Airport in London, United Kingdom
Quick Facts
London Gatwick Airport (LGW) is a Schengen Area airport in London, United Kingdom. Transiting here may require ETIAS or a transit visa depending on your nationality.
Airport LGW
City London
Country United Kingdom
Schengen Yes
✈️
Airport Code LGW
🏙️
City London
🇪🇺
Country United Kingdom
🌍
Schengen Yes
Transit at London Gatwick Airport
London Gatwick Airport (LGW) is located in London, United Kingdom. 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 London Gatwick 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 United Kingdom.
Transit FAQs — London Gatwick Airport (LGW)
Do I need a visa to transit through London Gatwick 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 London Gatwick Airport a Schengen airport?
Yes. London Gatwick Airport is in United Kingdom, 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 London during your layover.
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