What is an Airport Transit Visa (Type A) and who needs it?

An Airport Transit Visa (Type A) allows you to pass through the international zone of a Schengen airport during a layover without entering the country. It is strictly for travellers who are connecting flights and will not leave the airport transit area. Here’s who typically needs it 👇 🌍 Citizens of specific countriesNationals from countries such as Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, and Sri Lanka generally require this visa to transit through any Schengen airport. 🚫 When a Type A visa is NOT enough: You will need a regular Short-Stay Visa (Type C) instead if: • You need to leave the international transit area (e.g., to change terminals). • You have a layover overnight and the transit zone closes. • You have two or more stops within the Schengen Area (e.g., flying Singapore -> Frankfurt -> Paris -> Destination). 💡 Exemptions:You might not need this visa if you hold a valid visa or residence permit from countries like the USA, UK, Canada, or Japan. ✨ At Outbound Singapore, we check your itinerary and nationality to confirm exactly which visa you need—ensuring you don’t get stuck at the airport during your connection.