São Paulo (GRU) Airport Transit: how it works in Brazil — first-hand
Short answer
At GRU Airport, a 4-hour layover is recommended for international-to-domestic transfers, as passengers must clear immigration and customs even when moving between terminals. Separate tickets require baggage re-check and a new check-in process, making a 2-hour window extremely risky.
From real experience
For international-to-domestic transfers at Guarulhos (GRU) Airport in São Paulo, Brazil (e.g., from Terminal 2 to Terminal 3 for a domestic flight to Foz do Iguaçu), a 4-hour layover is generally considered sufficient.
Passengers typically need 2-3 hours to clear customs, retrieve luggage, and check-in for the connecting flight (check-in usually closes 1 hour before departure). Walking time between terminals is approximately 10 minutes.
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International transit at São Paulo (GRU) Airport often requires passport control, even if staying airside.
When using separate tickets/airlines, verify if airside transfer between Terminal 2 and 3 is possible for your specific connection. Passengers are advised to have a printed boarding pass or mobile check-in ready.
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A 3.5-hour layover at GRU (São Paulo) is generally sufficient but risky due to potential passport control delays.
Always carry a printed copy of your itinerary. Be cautious of airport staff offering 'extra help' for a fee, as pricing can be predatory.
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At GRU airport (São Paulo), passengers on separate international tickets/different airlines must clear Brazilian immigration and customs even for terminal transfers.
There is no direct airside transfer available for non-connected bookings.
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A 2-hour transit window at Guarulhos (GRU) international airport is extremely risky for travelers requiring immigration clearance, luggage collection, and re-checking.
Delays are frequent and missing the second flight is highly probable.
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Passport control in Sao Paulo can vary in time.
One traveler reported passing in about 20 minutes, while others took longer. With a 3-hour layover, it's advisable to be prepared for potential delays.