transit visa

Meaning

A transit visa is a temporary permit that allows a traveler to pass through a country's airport or territory on their way to another destination. It is typically required when you have a long layover or need to change airports in a foreign country.

Examples

• Since my layover in London is twelve hours, I might need to apply for a transit visa.

  Since my layover in London is twelve hours, I might need to apply for a transit visa.

• Passengers who stay inside the international terminal usually do not require a transit visa.

  Passengers who stay inside the international terminal usually do not require a transit visa.

• Please check if your nationality requires a transit visa for connections in Schengen countries.

  Please check if your nationality requires a transit visa for connections in Schengen countries.

• I had to collect my baggage and re-check it, which meant I needed a transit visa to clear customs.

  I had to collect my baggage and re-check it, which meant I needed a transit visa to clear customs.

• The airline agent confirmed that a transit visa is mandatory for this specific flight path.

  The airline agent confirmed that a transit visa is mandatory for this specific flight path.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ I got a transit visa to stay in Paris for a two-week holiday.

  ✓ I got a tourist visa to stay in Paris for a two-week holiday.

  A transit visa is only for short layovers (usually under 24 to 48 hours) while passing through, not for extended vacations.

• ✗ Do I need a transfer visa for my connection in Dubai?

  ✓ Do I need a transit visa for my connection in Dubai?

  While 'transfer' is the action of changing planes, the official legal document is always called a 'transit visa'.

Related Expressions

Practice

• If you plan to leave the airport during your overnight connection, you will need a ___.

  💡 A short-term visa for passing through a country.

  Show answer

  transit visa

• Citizens of certain countries must obtain an airport ___ even if they don't leave the terminal.

  💡 Document for layovers.

  Show answer

  transit visa