The Istanbul Airport arrival guide in five steps: leave the plane, pass passport control if you are entering Türkiye, collect your bags, clear customs and head to the arrivals hall for transport. If you are only changing planes, you may not do any of this, so read our self-transfer guide first.
Last checked: 10 November 2026, against the airport operator’s passenger guide at istairport.com. The page lists services but gives no walking times or queue times, so we do not give any. iGA publishes live waiting times on its site.
Istanbul Airport arrival guide: the steps
| Step | What happens |
|---|---|
| 1. Leave the plane | Follow signs for arrivals. Domestic and international passengers use separate procedures |
| 2. Passport control | International arrivals only. Have your passport and entry documents ready |
| 3. Baggage claim | Find your flight on the screens |
| 4. Customs | The airport lists customs services. See our customs guide |
| 5. Arrivals hall | Information points, money services and transport |
Check your entry rules before you fly. Our e-visa guide and passport rules guide explain the steps.
Services the airport lists for arriving passengers
| Service | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Banks and ATMs | Cash in lira. Read our cash or card guide before you use an exchange counter |
| Information points | Staff can point you to transport and facilities |
| İBB and Ministry of Tourism information points | Tourist information |
| Left luggage offices and storage lockers | See our luggage storage guide |
| Lost and found | For items left in the terminal |
| Medical centre | The operator lists the Medicana Airport Medical Center |
| Prayer rooms | Listed in the passenger guide |
| Immigration office | For problems at passport control |
| Airport hotel | See our YOTEL guide and sleeping at the airport |
Phone, SIM and help
The airport runs a 24-hour call centre on 444 1 442 and a WhatsApp support line on +90 444 1 442, and it offers a free mobile app. Check our eSIM guide before you fly, so your phone works when you land.
How to leave the airport
Istanbul Airport is north-west of the old city. The M11 metro line serves it, and the Havaist coaches and taxis run to central areas. Our airport to city centre guide compares each option by district. For Sultanahmet, see airport to Sultanahmet. Taxi prices are in our taxi fares guide, and the apps are in our taxi apps guide.
A late-night arrival
If you land after midnight, check the metro and coach times before you fly. Our night metro guide explains why an airport connection can still fail. A pre-booked transfer or an official taxi may be the safer choice.
Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gökçen?
Check the airport code on your ticket. IST is the main hub on the European side, and SAW is on the Asian side. Our Sabiha Gökçen guide covers the other airport.
Istanbul Airport arrival guide: quick answers
Do I need a visa at Istanbul Airport?
It depends on your passport. See our e-visa guide and the official e-Visa portal.
Is there left luggage at Istanbul Airport?
Yes. The operator lists left luggage offices and lockers.
How do I contact the airport?
Use the call centre on 444 1 442 or the WhatsApp line.
