Millions of individuals embark on journeys to various destinations annually. However, not all flights can be completed without a layover. Consequently, many countries issue transit visas to aid travelers transiting through their territory for a brief period before continuing their journey to their final destination.
A transit visa is a travel permit enabling passage through a country en route to one’s final destination. For instance, if traveling from India to the US with a layover in the Schengen Zone, a transit visa for the Schengen Area is necessary.
Transit visas are typically short-term and may not be obligatory for all travelers. Hence, it’s crucial to consult with an embassy or consulate beforehand to ascertain whether a transit visa is required.
Transit visas can be obtained for various countries depending on the traveler’s itinerary, including:
Transit visa fees differ from country to country, with some countries offering them free of charge, while others incur a fee ranging from JPY 700 to USD 160.
Transit zones are designated areas within international airports where travelers can wait until their connecting flight is ready for boarding without undergoing immigration procedures, provided they do not exit the airport premises.
Obtaining a transit visa involves several steps:
Transit visas are usually valid for 24 hours but can be issued for longer durations based on embassy discretion and the traveler’s itinerary. They are typically single-entry visas and expire once utilized for transit.
Transit visa costs vary between $25 and $100, contingent on the destination country. Some countries waive application fees for transit visas.
Travelers may be exempt from transit visa requirements if they possess a valid visa for their transit country, hold a diplomatic passport, originate from a country with a bilateral agreement with the transit country, remain within the transit zone, or have a transit period of less than 24 hours.