In a significant step to deepen India&ndash;Germany relations, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced that Indian passport holders will no longer need a transit visa when passing through German airports. The decision was revealed on Monday during his visit to Gujarat and is expected to simplify international travel for thousands of Indian passengers.
A transit visa is a short-term permit required when travellers pass through a country on the way to their final destination. It usually applies during airport layovers and requires proof of onward travel, even when passengers do not enter the country itself.
Until now, Indian travellers were required to apply for a Schengen transit visa when stopping at German airports such as Frankfurt, Munich, or Berlin, even if they remained inside the international transit area. Under the new rule, this requirement has been removed, making connections through Germany faster and more convenient for Indians flying to destinations across Europe, North America and beyond.
However, this change applies only to airport transit. Indian nationals will still need appropriate visas, such as tourist, business or student visas, if they wish to enter Germany or any other Schengen country.
Alongside the visa announcement, India and Germany also unveiled new measures to strengthen cooperation in defence, security and economic sectors. Both countries described the expanding partnership as a reflection of growing trust and shared strategic interests.
The move is expected to enhance people-to-people connections, boost business travel, and make Germany a more attractive transit hub for Indian flyers.

Visa-free airport transit to boost India-Germany travel and cooperation

Germany Ends Transit Visa for Indian Travellers

Visa-free airport transit to boost India-Germany travel and cooperation

January 13, 2026 | 15:27 IST