How long does customs take at Orly?

Customs takes seconds but Immigration could take up to 1 hour.



In 2026, wait times at Paris-Orly (ORY) can vary significantly due to the implementation of the EU's Entry/Exit System (EES). For non-EU travelers (including US, UK, and Canadian citizens), first-time registration in this biometric system—which involves facial scans and fingerprints—can lead to queues of 2 to 3 hours during peak periods. Once your biometrics are in the system, subsequent entries are faster, typically taking 20 to 45 minutes. However, Orly is currently undergoing a multi-billion euro modernization to absorb these delays. For domestic or Schengen-to-Schengen travelers, the process is virtually instant. To avoid the longest waits, travelers are advised to arrive at least 3 to 4 hours before departure and to use "Parafe" automated gates if eligible. During summer 2026, congestion is expected to be at an all-time high, so pre-booking fast-track services is highly recommended.

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Orly (ORY) is the second largest airport in Paris (after Charles de Gaulle). Each year, over 32 million passengers pass through its terminals. Find out the best ways to travel between Paris and Orly airport. It has two terminals, Sud (south) and Ouest (west).

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Allow enough time: Customs can be time-consuming, especially during peak travel periods. Make sure you allow enough time to clear customs and get to your connecting flight. As a general rule, it's best to allow at least two hours for international layovers.

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The recommended layover time for international flights is generally longer, as you will have to go through customs and immigration before boarding your next flight. In most cases, a 30-minute layover for domestic flights and an hour for international flights is considered a minimum, or short, layover.

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Paris-Orly Airport, (ORY), the busiest airport for domestic flights within France, was also once the premier airport for the city prior to the construction of Charles de Gaulle Airport.

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Paris-Orly airport, commonly shortened to “Orly airport”, is located 14 km south of Paris in Ile-de-France region. It was named after the town of Orly where it is established.

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A taxi from Orly Airport to Paris will take around 20-30 minutes and the service is door-to-door, making it the most convenient option. Alternatively, taking the train is a cheap transfer option. Trains run throughout most of the day and tickets cost €15.40 one-way. Another budget transfer option is to take the bus.

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Compared to Charles de Gaulle Airport, Orly Airport is calmer and easier to navigate as its four terminals are interconnected. It's also the closest airport to the city center (1st arrondissement), and is certified as a 4-star airport by Skytrax.

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