If you’re an Indian passport holder planning a long-haul flight through European countries, you might need a transit visa for some nations. A transit visa is a short-term authorization that lets travelers pass through a country – usually while at an airport – on their way to a final destination. It’s necessary for layovers or connecting flights and typically requires proof of onward travel, but it usually limits how long you can stay in the country. However, now, there’s one major relief for Indian passport holders. Germany has announced that Indian passport holders no longer need to obtain a transit visa when passing through its airports.
This was confirmed in a joint statement after German Chancellor Friedrich Merz‘s visit to India. With this change, Indian travelers can swiftly navigate connecting flights at major German airports like Frankfurt, Munich, and Berlin.
Indian Travelers Can Now Transit Via Germany Visa-Free
The recent policy change is set to simplify international travel for Indian citizens, strengthening ties between India and Germany. This change allows Indian travelers with connecting flights through German airports like Frankfurt, Munich, or Berlin to avoid obtaining a Schengen ‘Type A’ transit visa, as long as they stay in the international transit zone and board their next flight within 24 hours.
Previously, travelers needed to allocate extra time (often 5-7 days) and pay an INR 6300 (€60) fee for a transit visa, leading to challenges for airlines when passengers arrived without the necessary documents. However, you must note that this does not mean you can leave the airport to explore Germany; a regular visa is still needed for entry into the country. This adjustment will certainly make travel planning more seamless!
In addition, Germany announced a funding initiative of 1.24 billion euros as part of the Green and Sustainable Development Partnership to promote renewable energy, green hydrogen, and climate-resilient urban infrastructure.
