How long is the Schengen transit visa valid for?

Duration of a Schengen Transit Visa

When traveling through the Schengen Area, which comprises 26 European countries, travelers may require a Schengen transit visa. This type of visa allows individuals to pass through the international transit zone of an airport within the Schengen Area for a limited time.

The validity of a Schengen airport transit visa is typically for a maximum of 24 hours. This means that travelers have a window of 24 hours to connect to their onward flight or continue their journey. Exceeding this time limit or leaving the international transit zone requires a standard Schengen visa application.

What Happens if You Stay for Longer Than 24 Hours?

If you intend to stay in the Schengen Area for longer than 24 hours, you will need to apply for a standard Schengen visa. This type of visa is specific to the purpose of your travel, such as tourism, business, or visiting family. The validity and duration of a standard Schengen visa vary depending on the purpose of your stay and the discretion of the issuing authority.

Types of Transit Visas

There are two main types of Schengen transit visas:

• Airport Transit Visa (Type A): Grants access to the international transit zone of an airport for a maximum of 24 hours.
• Limited Territorial Validity Transit Visa (Type B): Allows transit through a specific Schengen country or a limited number of countries for up to 5 days.

Who Needs a Transit Visa?

Not all travelers need a Schengen transit visa. Citizens of countries with visa-free travel agreements with the Schengen Area are exempt from this requirement. However, nationals of countries that do not have such agreements may need to obtain a transit visa, even if they are not planning to leave the airport transit zone.

It is important to check the specific visa requirements for your nationality and travel itinerary before planning your trip. You can also consult with the embassy or consulate of the Schengen country you will be transiting through for further information.