Transit Visa
A transit visa allows you to pass through a country's airport or territory on your way to another destination, without entering that country for tourism.
What It Means
A transit visa is needed when your journey involves a layover or connection in a country where you don't have regular visa access. Not all layovers require a transit visa — many countries offer transit without visa (TWOV) facilities if you stay in the international terminal and depart within a certain time (usually 24 hours). However, some countries require a transit visa even if you're just changing planes. If your layover is long enough that you want to leave the airport and explore the city, you'll typically need either a transit visa that permits exit or a regular tourist visa.
What This Means for Indian Travelers
Indian passport holders need to pay close attention to transit visa requirements. The UK requires a Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV) for some routes. The US requires a C-1 transit visa. However, many countries offer visa-free transit: Singapore offers 96-hour VFTF (Visa Free Transit Facility), UAE airports often don't require transit visas for short layovers, and many European airports allow transit without Schengen visa if staying airside. Always check before booking connecting flights!
Examples
- 1UK — DATV required for Indians (exceptions for certain visa holders)
- 2US — C-1 transit visa required (no transit without visa)
- 3Singapore — 96-hour Visa Free Transit Facility (VFTF) available
- 4Dubai — Transit without visa for short layovers
- 5Schengen — Airport transit visa may be required for Indians at some airports
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a transit visa if I'm not leaving the airport?
It depends on the country. Some (like the US) require transit visas even if you stay airside. Others (like Singapore, UAE) offer transit without visa for short connections. Always check the specific country's rules.
Can I leave the airport during a transit?
Only if your transit visa or the country's rules explicitly permit it. Singapore's 96-hour VFTF allows you to leave the airport and explore. Most basic transit visas restrict you to the international terminal.
How can I avoid transit visa issues?
Book direct flights when possible. If connecting, choose transit-friendly countries (Dubai, Singapore, Doha) that don't require transit visas for Indians. Check requirements BEFORE booking.
Pro Tips
- When booking connecting flights, choose airlines that transit through visa-friendly hubs for Indians
- Dubai, Doha, and Singapore are excellent transit hubs for Indian passport holders
- If transiting through the US, you need a full US visa — there's no separate transit visa for Indians
- Some transit visas allow you to explore the city — Singapore's VFTF gives you 96 hours to explore!
Related Terms
Visa Required (Sticker/Stamp Visa)
Visa required means you must apply for and receive a visa from the country's embassy or consulate before you travel.
Visa-Free Travel
Visa-free travel means you can enter a country with just your passport — no visa application, no fee, no stamp needed before arrival.
Schengen Visa
A Schengen visa is a single visa that grants access to 27 European countries in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Ready to Plan Your Trip?
Now that you understand the terminology, check out our detailed visa guides for specific destinations.