In a move aimed at strengthening India-Germany relations, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced that Indian nationals will no longer require a transit visa when passing through German airports. The announcement was made on Monday during Chancellor Merz’s visit to Gujarat, where he met Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a joint press conference.
The new facility will simplify international travel for Indian citizens, allowing them to transit through airports such as Berlin, Frankfurt, and Munich without the need for a separate Schengen transit visa. Previously, Indian travellers needed this visa even if they remained in the airport’s international transit area and did not enter Germany. While transit visas will no longer be required, travellers will still need the appropriate tourist, business, or student visa to enter Germany or other Schengen countries.
Prime Minister Modi welcomed the announcement, calling it a step that reflects growing trust and cooperation between the two nations. He highlighted that easing travel procedures aligns with broader efforts to strengthen people-to-people ties and facilitate mobility between India and Germany.
Broader India-Germany Cooperation
The visa-free transit announcement coincided with the unveiling of a comprehensive roadmap for higher education collaboration. India invited German universities to open campuses in the country, signaling a new phase of academic partnership.
The leaders also discussed global and regional issues, including conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, and reaffirmed their shared commitment to combating terrorism. Modi emphasized India’s stance on peaceful conflict resolution and cooperation on counterterrorism.
Beyond education and security, both countries are exploring deeper ties in climate action, energy, urban development, and technology. Upcoming green hydrogen projects and initiatives to strengthen supply chains, defence, and technology collaboration were highlighted as key areas of focus.
Chancellor Merz’s two-day visit also marks the 75th anniversary of India-Germany diplomatic relations and the 25th anniversary of their Strategic Partnership. The visa-free transit facility is expected to streamline international travel for Indian passengers while reinforcing the broader agenda of economic, educational, and technological cooperation between the two countries.
