In a move set to simplify international travel for Indian passengers, Germany has announced that Indian passport holders will no longer require a Schengen Airport Transit Visa while changing flights at German airports. The decision is expected to significantly reduce paperwork and travel-related stress for Indians flying via Europe.
The new rule will allow Indian travellers to transit through major German aviation hubs such as Frankfurt and Munich without applying for a Type A Schengen transit visa, provided they are flying onward to a non-Schengen country.
Announcement During High-Level India Visit
The visa-free transit measure was announced during German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s first official visit to India on January 12–13, 2026. Hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the visit focused on strengthening cooperation in areas such as:
Defence and security
Trade and investment
Semiconductor technology
Skilled mobility and people-to-people ties
The transit visa waiver was highlighted as a practical, people-centric outcome of these discussions. However, authorities have clarified that while the decision has been announced, implementation is yet to begin.
Why Transit Visas Were a Problem
Until now, Indian travellers were required to obtain a Schengen Airport Transit Visa even if they:
Did not leave the airport
Did not clear immigration
Only changed planes during a layover
Failure to produce the visa often resulted in passengers being denied boarding at their departure airport. The application process involved documentation, travel insurance, and a fee of around €90, with processing times stretching up to two weeks.
This made Germany a risky transit option, despite offering some of Europe’s best flight connections.
What Changes for Indian Passengers
Under the revised policy:
Indian nationals can transit through German airports without a transit visa
Passengers must stay within the international transit area
The onward journey must be to a non-Schengen destination
Layovers must be under 24 hours
The rule does not permit entry into Germany or any other Schengen country. Travellers planning to exit the airport will still need a valid Schengen visa.
Airports Where the Rule Applies
Germany has international transit zones at five airports:
Berlin-Brandenburg
Frankfurt/Main
Munich
Hamburg (limited hours)
Düsseldorf (restricted hours and airline coordination required)
Passengers are advised to confirm transit arrangements with their airline in advance.
More Choices, Fewer Hassles
The removal of the transit visa requirement is expected to:
Expand flight options for Indian travellers
Encourage use of German hubs for long-haul travel
Reduce costs and last-minute travel disruptions
Major airlines such as Lufthansa and Air India operate extensive networks via Germany, connecting India to North America, the UK, Africa, and beyond.
A Step Towards Easier Mobility
While the change does not alter Germany’s immigration or entry visa policies, it reflects a shift towards smoother mobility between India and Germany. For Indian students, professionals, and families, the move promises simpler connections, reduced expenses, and greater travel flexibility.
