Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is a major international hub, and as such, it can experience significant passenger traffic. Wait times for security and passport control at Schiphol Airport (AMS) can differ greatly based on the time of day and day of the week. Some passengers may pass through quickly with only a short wait (10-20 mins), while others might face much longer lines. During peak travel periods, such as school holidays, or on busy days like Fridays, Sundays, and Monday mornings, the Schiphol wait time can stretch to an hour or more.
What Is the Current Waiting Time at Schiphol?
Schiphol’s official site shows that crowd levels today are “busy” for departures, meaning security and passport control queues are longer than usual, i.e. more than 45 mins. Travellers can view real-time updates on the current security wait time at Schiphol through the Schiphol app or the airport’s Live page.
General AMS Airport Security Wait Times
At Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, security wait times change depending on the season and how busy the airport is. During less busy hours, passengers usually spend about 10 to 25 minutes getting through security. However, in peak travel times, such as holidays or busy weekends, the wait can be much longer, sometimes 45 minutes or even more.
Expedited Security Program at AMS Airport
Just like other US Airports, AMS does not offer TSA PreCheck and CLEAR. However, passengers can still use other security screening programs to reduce Schiphol wait times.
- Free Timeslot Reservation: Schiphol participates in the Reserve by Clear program, which allows travellers on flights to the United States. Travellers can book a slot up to 3 days before departure. Upon arrival at the specified time, they join a priority queue, bypassing long lines. The procedure is very simple:
- Reserve a timeslot online.
- A confirmation email with a QR code is sent to the passenger.
- After checking in and dropping off bags, flyers follow the signs to the designated “Timeslot” queue at security.
- An airport employee will scan the QR code, allowing the passenger to proceed through the security check with less waiting.
- Fast Track Schiphol: An additional Fast Track service is available for a fee. It allows access to premium lanes for security and may include assistance from an airport agent. It offers:
- Quicker entry through security and passport control.
- Save time and travel without stress.
- Open to everyone.
- Option to add extra services.
Schiphol Passport Control Wait Time
AMS Wait times at passport control can also vary from 15 minutes to over an hour, depending on the number of flights landing at the same time or during busy hours. To avoid stress, it is usually advised to reach the airport at least 2 to 3 hours before departure, particularly for international flights. This gives enough time to clear both security and passport control comfortably.
- Schiphol Customs Wait Time: Customs wait times at Schiphol Airport are usually shorter compared to security and passport control. After collecting baggage, most travellers pass through customs in just a few minutes, especially if they have nothing to declare. However, the wait can be longer during busy hours when multiple flights arrive at once or if passengers are selected for additional checks.
- Global Entry: This program speeds up customs and immigration, can be used at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport alongside the airport’s Privium program. Privium offers travellers access to special lanes for faster security and passport control, making the journey quicker and more convenient.
Travel Tips for a Faster AMS Security Experience
Passengers can save on the AMS airport wait times by following a few quick tips, like:
- Use the Schiphol app or website to check real-time updates
- Reserve a security timeslot
- Consider paid Fast Track
- Ensure smart packing
- Travel light with hand luggage only
- Arrive early at the airport
Schiphol security and passport control wait times can vary widely from 20 minutes to more than an hour. By using the airport’s official resources and following a few simple tips, travellers can significantly reduce their Schiphol waiting time spent in queues and enjoy a more relaxed start to their trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
The current security wait times are more than 45 minutes.
The most accurate wait times are available on the official Schiphol app and website’s “Live” section, which provides real-time crowd information based on current airport activity.
Customs is typically a very fast process for most travellers who have nothing to declare. They can walk through the green lane with no wait time.
You can usually book a timeslot up to three days before your flight’s departure.
While a timeslot reduces security wait time, it does not affect the recommended arrival time. You should still arrive at the airport 2 hours before Europe, 3 hours for intercontinental to allow for check-in and baggage drop.
Travellers report times as short as 5 minutes when using a reserved slot.