Arriving at Keflavík Airport
Welcome to Iceland. From the moment your wheels touch the runway at KEF, clear signage and efficient Icelandic logistics guide you through the terminal. Whether you're reclaiming baggage or navigating customs, here is exactly what to expect before you step out into the crisp Atlantic air.
01
Arrival from Aircraft
The journey begins as you exit the aircraft. Most flights connect to the terminal via a jet bridge, while some utilize stairs and a short bus transfer to the arrivals entrance.
02
Passport Control
Non-Schengen passengers must clear passport control. Travelers from within the Schengen Area bypass this check, heading straight to duty-free and baggage reclaim.
03
Baggage Reclaim
Collect checked luggage from the assigned carousel. Information screens display flight numbers and corresponding carousels near the entrance of the reclaim hall.
04
Duty Free Shopping
All arriving passengers will pass through the terminal duty-free store just before the baggage reclaim hall. Visiting is optional for those entering the secure zone.
05
Customs Clearance
Proceed through the green 'nothing to declare' channel or the red channel if you exceed duty-free allowances or have specific items to declare to Icelandic authorities.
06
Arrivals Hall
Step out into the public arrivals hall. This is where you will find onward transportation options, pick-up points, and the first views of the Reykjanes peninsula.
Passport Control
Your entry process at Keflavík is determined by your original point of departure. Travelers flying from within the Schengen Area typically bypass border control and head straight to collect bags. Conversely, individuals arriving from non-Schengen countries are required to go through a passport check before entering Iceland. Travelers should carry the valid travel document or identification required for their journey.
Baggage & Duty Free
If passport control applies to your arrival, complete it first. Arriving passengers then pass through the arrivals duty-free area before reaching baggage reclaim. KEF notes that most bags arrive within around 20–30 minutes, although baggage-delivery times can vary. Should your items be missing, visit the service desk to file a report before leaving the secure zone.
The Arrivals Duty Free store is open 24/7, offering all incoming travelers the chance to shop before passing through the customs checkpoint. Once you have finished your shopping and collected your bags, you will proceed to the customs area to officially enter the country.
Terminal Transition
Passing through customs at Keflavík is the final step before entering the public arrivals hall. Whether you have nothing to declare (Green Channel) or items requiring declaration (Red Channel), the process is designed to be efficient. Once you step through the automatic doors, you are in the public area of the airport.
The arrivals hall is where your journey into Iceland truly begins. Here, you will find information desks for onward transportation, including airport coach services, car rental kiosks, and the exit to the taxi rank. If you have pre-booked a private transfer, your driver will typically be waiting in this area with a sign.
How long does it take to leave KEF?
Time to exit the terminal varies depending on whether passport control applies, baggage delivery, simultaneous flight arrivals and other operating conditions. It is important to note that these variables change daily based on airport traffic and local staffing. Travelers should maintain flexibility when planning their pick-up or onward travel as specific clearance times are never guaranteed. Please allow for these potential shifts in your schedule.
Your onward transport
Keflavík International Airport is located about 50 km from Reykjavík. While the airport does not have a rail link, travelers have several efficient options to reach the capital or other destinations. Choose the mode that best suits your group size and schedule.
Landing before your hotel is ready?
Many transatlantic flights arrive at KEF early in the morning. However, many hotels have check-in later in the day, often around 15:00, but policies vary by property. A popular solution is the Blue Lagoon arrival transfer. Upon landing, you are picked up at KEF and taken to the lagoon. Crucially, your luggage is stored at the Blue Lagoon’s own luggage-storage facility—it does not stay in the vehicle. After your visit, a scheduled NorthTrip transfer completes the journey to your Reykjavík accommodation. Note that Blue Lagoon entry is not included in the transfer.
Late Arrivals
Public buses have limited nocturnal schedules, yet airport coaches, taxis, and pre-booked transfers typically remain active based on specific operator timetables and flight arrival times.
Arrival Checklist
Arrival Documents
- Passport or valid travel document / ID as required for your journey
Visa, if required
Hotel address
Blue Lagoon booking, if visiting
Essentials
- Payment card; cash is optional
Your onward transport plan or booking
Local SIM or eSIM
Weather-appropriate layers
Logistics
- Hotel check-in time
Car-rental pickup information if renting
Blue Lagoon booking, if visiting
Public Info
- Bus schedule apps
- Taxi ranks exit
- Duty-free limits
- Customs red/green lanes
Continue Planning Your Arrival
KEF → Reykjavík
Compare airport coaches, public transport, private transfers and taxis to find the option that fits your arrival and budget.
Blue Lagoon Combo
See how a KEF → Blue Lagoon → Reykjavík arrival can help you use your first day well when your hotel check-in is later.
Hotel Check-In Gap
Many hotels have later check-in times. We provide practical advice on managing the gap between landing and your room is ready.