Visa-Free Transit for Indians: What’s Changing?
Until now, Indian passport holders flying through Germany had to apply for a Schengen transit visa (Category A), even if they never left the airport. This applied to major hubs such as Frankfurt, Munich and Berlin. Simply passing through the international transit area still meant paperwork and extra hassle, despite travellers not entering Germany or the wider Schengen zone.
Under the new arrangement, this rule is being relaxed. Indian travellers will now find it much easier to change planes at German airports when heading to another international destination, without needing a transit visa.
Modi and Merz Meet in Ahmedabad
India and Germany signed 19 agreements during talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Ahmedabad on Monday. These deals cover a wide range of areas, including defence manufacturing, higher education, and telecommunications.
Both leaders also strongly backed the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), highlighting its potential to transform global trade, improve connectivity, and boost shared prosperity.
Shared Stand on the Indo-Pacific
During their discussions, Modi and Merz reaffirmed their commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region. They stressed the importance of following international law, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
The two countries also announced a new bilateral consultation mechanism focused on Indo-Pacific affairs. This move comes at a time of growing concern over China’s increasing military activity in the region.