The American transit visa is issued for people who have to transit through the US for different purposes. This is only required for nationalities that do not come under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), such as Indian nationals.

Excellent question. The answer is it depends entirely on your nationality, the country you are transiting through, and the specific airport.

Indian citizens do not have visa-free transit rights in most major international hubs. You will often need a Transit Visa or a specific type of visa to even change planes.

Here’s a detailed breakdown:

General Rule: You Usually NEED a Transit Visa

For most countries, if you need to leave the international transit area of the airport (e.g., to collect baggage, check-in for your next flight with a different airline, or because the airport doesn’t have a sterile transit zone), you will require a transit visa.

Even if you don’t leave the transit area, many countries require an Airside Transit Visa (ATV) or similar for Indian passport holders.

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Key Examples by Country/Region:

1. Countries that ALMOST ALWAYS require a Transit Visa for Indians:

• United Kingdom: You need a Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV) if you are changing flights in the UK, unless you qualify for an exemption (e.g., have a valid visa for the USA, Canada, etc.). If you pass through UK border control for any reason, you need a Standard Visitor Visa.
• Schengen Area (Europe): Most Schengen countries (like France, Germany, Netherlands) require an Airport Transit Visa (ATV) for Indian citizens. Notable Exceptions: If you have a valid visa or residence permit for the USA, Canada, Japan, or a Schengen country itself, you are often exempt from the ATV.
• United States: You must have