Archive · 13 Jan 2026
Germany Eases Transit for Indians
Germany has announced that Indian passport holders no longer need a transit visa when changing flights at German airports.
This new rule makes it easier for Indians to travel through Germany to other countries.
The change was announced during a visit by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz to India.
The rule applies to flights connecting through major German airports like Frankfurt and Munich, as long as travelers stay in the transit area and continue to a non-Schengen country within 24 hours.
This makes traveling easier and more convenient for Indians, as they no longer need to apply for a visa just to change planes in Germany.
The announcement was part of broader talks to strengthen the relationship between India and Germany.
Germany announced that Indian passport holders no longer need a Schengen Airport Transit visa for transit through its airports.
The rule applies to passengers connecting through German hubs like Frankfurt and Munich to non-Schengen destinations.
Travelers must remain in the international transit area and continue their journey within 24 hours.
The announcement was made during German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's visit to India on January 12–13, 2026.
The new rule simplifies travel for Indian passengers, removing the need for a transit visa and associated paperwork.
- Who
- Indian passport holders, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Prime Minister Narendra Modi
- What
- Germany's new visa-free transit rule for Indian travelers
- When
- Announced during Chancellor Merz's visit to India on January 12–13, 2026
- Where
- Germany and India
- Why
- To simplify transit for Indian travelers and strengthen India-Germany relations
- Transit Visa Requirement
- No longer required for Indian passport holders
- Applicable Airports
- Frankfurt, Munich, Berlin, Brandenburg, Dusseldorf (with restrictions), Hamburg (with restrictions)
- Transit Duration
- Up to 24 hours
- Destination Requirement
- Non-Schengen countries only
- Announcement Date
- January 12–13, 2026
- Key Agenda Items
- Defense, trade, semiconductors, mobility
- Previous Visa Fee
- €90 (Rs 9,471) for adults
- Processing Time
- Up to 15 days
Sources
PM Modi raises baby Ariha Shah case with German Chancellor Merz – What’s the case all about
Germany announces visa-free transit for Indian passport holders during Merz’s India visit – Firstpost
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Modi-Merz engagement was about a new strategic geography — Indo-Europe
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