Visa requirements

Germany

General visa requirements for travelling to Germany. These policies apply to all nationalities unless a country-specific policy exists.

Have a specific passport country? Check your specific route.

Transit visa (Airport Transit Visa (Type A))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

• Maximum stay: 1 days
• Processing time: 15 calendar days
• Fee: €90
• Validity: Specific transit date
• Entry: Single entry

Required for nationals of approximately 20 countries transiting through German airports without entering the Schengen area. Only 5 German airports have International Transit Areas. Not required if you have valid visa from EEA countries, Japan, or Canada. Note: Indian nationals will no longer require airport transit visa once formal implementation is complete (expected soon).

Eligibility

• Nationality

  Required for nationals of specific countries when transiting through German airports.

  Eligible countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Congo (Democratic Republic of the), Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iran (Islamic Republic of), Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Mali, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, South Sudan, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syrian Arab Republic, Turkey

• Purpose of visit

  For transiting through German airport international area without entering Schengen zone.

  Includes

  • Airport transit only

Documents you need

• Passport

  Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 3

• Photo

  Count: 2; Specifications: 35x45mm, color, white background

• Travel insurance

  Coverage area: Schengen area; Minimum coverage: €30,000

• Flight reservation

  Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

  Must be confirmed: Yes; Must show return: Yes

• Application form

  Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

  Form name: Airport Transit Visa Application; Form url: https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/en/visa-service/

How to apply

1. Online application

   Complete airport transit visa application.

2. Document gathering

   Gather flight tickets showing transit, passport, insurance.

3. Appointment booking

   Book appointment at German embassy/consulate.

4. Fee payment

   Pay visa fee.

5. Document submission

   Submit documents.

6. Processing wait

   Wait for processing.

7. Visa collection

   Collect transit visa.

This information is provided for general guidance only. Visa requirements can change frequently and may vary by nationality. Always verify with the official embassy or consulate before making travel plans. Contact [email protected] for assistance.