Indian nationals will no longer require an airport transit visa when passing through German airports on their way to a third country. The exemption takes effect from June 3, 2026, following its publication in Germany’s Federal Law Gazette on June 2.
According to the German government, the change is intended to simplify international travel for Indian citizens who use German airports as transit hubs while travelling to destinations in Europe, North America and other parts of the world.
In a statement, the German Embassy in India said the decision reflects Germany’s commitment to strengthening ties with India and facilitating the movement of people between the two countries. The measure is also expected to support broader economic, educational and business exchanges.
The exemption will particularly benefit Indian students, professionals, tourists and business travellers who frequently transit through major German aviation hubs such as Frankfurt Airport and Munich Airport while travelling to international destinations.
Germany’s move follows a similar decision by France earlier in 2026. France removed its airport transit visa requirement for Indian citizens travelling exclusively by air through French airports, making transit procedures easier for Indian passengers.
The policy change is expected to reduce travel costs, paperwork and processing time for thousands of Indian travellers. It also highlights the growing strategic and economic relationship between India and Germany, while making international connectivity more convenient for passengers using German airports as global transit gateways.