Indian nationals travelling through Germany to third-country destinations no longer require an airport transit visa, following a policy change introduced by the Federal Republic of Germany that took effect on 3 June 2026.
The move was announced by the German Embassy in New Delhi, and is expected to simplify travel procedures for thousands of Indian passengers using German airports as transit points. This will strengthen air links between India, Germany and international destinations across Europe, North America and beyond.
Lufthansa Group has welcomed the decision, describing it as a significant step towards improving connectivity and enhancing the travel experience for Indian customers. The airline group said the removal of transit visa requirements will make journeys through major German hubs more seamless while reinforcing Germany’s position as a key gateway between India and the rest of the world.
The policy change comes at a time of growing demand for international travel from India, one of the fastest-expanding aviation markets globally. By removing an administrative requirement that previously applied to many transit passengers, German authorities aim to facilitate smoother connections and support stronger economic and tourism ties.
As the largest European airline group operating in India, the Lufthansa Group currently offers more than 70 weekly flights between India and Europe. The company has maintained a presence in the Indian market for more than six decades and has identified the country as a strategic growth market within its global network.
The development coincides with a period of expansion for the Lufthansa Group as it marks its centenary year. The airline is increasing its investment in the Indian market through fleet upgrades, new routes and additional capacity.
Among the planned enhancements is the deployment of Lufthansa’s Allegris cabin product on additional Boeing 787-9 services from Delhi and Hyderabad. The airline has also announced the expansion of its Future Onboard Experience (FOX) programme across all long-haul cabins, aimed at offering greater comfort, personalisation and choice for passengers.
Meanwhile, SWISS is preparing to launch its first direct service between Bengaluru and Zurich as part of its Winter 2026 schedule. Additional capacity is also being introduced through extra Airbus A330 frequencies between Delhi and Zurich and expanded Lufthansa Airbus A380 operations between Mumbai and Munich.
The abolition of airport transit visa requirements for Indian nationals is expected to benefit travellers, airlines and airports alike, while supporting closer aviation links between India, Europe and destinations worldwide.
