Important information
An airport transit visa only allows you to wait in the international transit zone to change planes; you cannot leave the transit area, even overnight. Multiple airport transits need a standard Type C visa instead.
Airport Transit Visa (Type A) requirements
- You are a national of a country whose travellers require an airport transit visa
- You are only changing flights, not entering the Schengen area
- You hold travel documents and any visa for your final destination
- You have travel insurance covering at least €30,000
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What is a Airport Transit Visa (Type A)?
A Type A airport transit visa permits travellers to change planes at a Schengen airport and wait in the international transit section. A related seafarer transit visa lets crew briefly disembark at a Schengen seaport to arrange onward travel to a non-Schengen destination.
Who is eligible?
- Nationals of countries that require an airport transit visa (e.g. Afghanistan, Bangladesh, DR Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, Sri Lanka)
- Exemptions may apply for diplomatic passport holders, family of EU/EEA/Swiss citizens, and holders of valid visas/residence permits from certain countries
What you can do with a Airport Transit Visa (Type A)
- Airport transitWait in the international transit area to change planes to your final destination.
- Seafarer transitBriefly disembark at a Schengen seaport while arranging onward transport.
Processing time
How long a decision usually takes.
You should usually receive a response within about two weeks; in exceptional cases this can extend to 30–60 days. Apply at least 15 days before travel, and no earlier than 3 months ahead.
Visa length
How long you can stay on this visa.
Documents required
- Completed, signed visa application form
- Two recent Schengen-standard photographs
- Valid passport (2+ blank pages, issued within 10 years)
- Travel documents for your final destination and any onward visa
- Return/onward flight reservation to a third country
- Travel insurance covering at least €30,000
- Proof of visa-fee payment
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When should I apply?
At least 15 days before your trip, and no earlier than three months before departure.
How long does processing take?
Usually within about two weeks, extendable to 30–60 days in exceptional cases.
How long is it valid?
The airport transit visa is valid in the international transit area for up to 24 hours; the seafarer visa allows up to five days.
Official sources