Germany transit visa

Citizens of the common airport transit visa list and Germany's additional list need an airport transit visa unless an exemption applies. Exemptions cover certain visa and residence permit holders, diplomatic passport holders, qualifying family members of European free movement nationals and flight crew.

There are 2 options: Airport transit without a visa (transit without a visa); Airport transit visa (a visa from an embassy).

Less than one day for the general visa-free airport transfer rule.

Up to 24 hours, if you meet the conditions. Use a single airport, remain in its international transfer area and complete the transfer in strictly less than 24 hours. Your nationality must be exempt from an airport transit visa, or you must hold a qualifying exemption.

Yes, staying in the international transit area is allowed for most travellers. To leave the airport: The visa-free airport transfer rule applies only if you can stay inside the international transfer area. If you must leave it, the normal entry rules for Germany apply.

Your connecting flight and the airport layout must allow a transfer without leaving the international transfer area. The general visa-free transfer limit is less than 24 hours, not a full 24 hours.

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the Germany visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

On Germany's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

Often you cannot switch visa type inside the country. Ask the immigration office before you travel if you might need to.