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Seville Airport (SVQ) is a beautiful gateway to Spain, but if you’re an international traveler arriving from outside the EU, be prepared for potential challenges at baggage claim and securing your first rideshare. Whether you’re visiting for vacation, festivals like Interstellar or ICÓNICA SANTALUCÍA Sevilla Fest, or simply to sightsee, these tips will help you navigate your arrival smoothly.

Important for Non-EU Travelers: If you’re visiting Spain as part of a longer European trip, remember that Spain is part of the Schengen Area. You’re allowed 90 days within any 180-day period across all Schengen countries. Track your days carefully with my free Schengen calculator to avoid overstay issues at Spanish borders.

Baggage Claim Confusion: The Non-EU Luggage Quest

The initial signage in the baggage claim area may lead you to believe that all luggage arrives on Carousel 6. However, non-EU baggage is actually sent to Carousels 7 and 8, tucked away behind double doors and poorly indicated. Keep an eye out for a small screen displaying “Equipajes No UE Cintas 7 y 8,” which translates to “Non-EU Baggage Belts 7 and 8.”

Pro Tip: If you have an Apple AirTag on your luggage, it can be a lifesaver in this situation. You’ll be able to track your bag’s location and get a heads-up when it’s approaching the carousel.

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Baggage Claim Wait Times

Be prepared for a wait! In our experience, it took 42 minutes (12:51 PM to 1:33 PM) for our bags to appear after landing. When we were at our layover in Paris, CDG, we saw our luggage being loaded onto the plane, which was reassuring. The AirTag also indicated movement on the tarmac, confirming our bags were on the way.

Baggage Carousel Jams: A Common Occurrence

Don’t be surprised to see bags piling up and falling off the carousel. This seems to be a frequent issue, and it can take a while for an airport worker to address the situation. Refer to the image below to see how chaotic it can get

How to Find Your Uber Rid: Accesso VTC is the Key

Once you’ve finally retrieved your luggage, you’ll want to get to your Seville accommodation. While Uber is available at the airport, the pickup location is not immediately obvious.

Seville International Airport (SVN) – Finding “Acceso VTC” to Get Uber

Look for signs that say “Accesso VTC” with the words “Access Suscribers” underneath. These signs, featuring a map pointer, car, and the letters VTC, will lead you to the parking lot where your Uber will arrive.

Uber drivers park in designated purple spots marked “VTC Plaza Reservada.”

Tips, Tricks, and Logistics

Additional Tips for International Travelers:

• Schengen Zone Awareness: Spain is part of the Schengen Area. If you’re traveling from outside the EU, your time in Seville counts toward your 90-day limit. Use my Schengen calculator tool to track your days across Europe.
• Currency: Spain uses the Euro (€). The airport has ATMs but rates are better in the city.
• Language: While many airport staff speak English, having Google Translate ready helps with signage like “Equipajes No UE.”

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