In a significant boost for Indian travellers and students, French President Emmanuel Macron has announced that Indian passport holders will no longer require an Airport Transit Visa (ATV) when passing through French airports.
The decision is expected to make travel to Europe, the UK and the US smoother and potentially cheaper for lakhs of Indian passengers who transit via hubs such as Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport.
What changes for travellers?
Until now, Indian nationals transiting through French airports — even without leaving the international transit area — were required to obtain a special Airport Transit Visa.
Under the new rule:
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Indian passengers can remain in the international transit zone without a visa
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The policy will initially run as a six-month pilot
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If successful, it may become permanent
The move is expected to encourage more travellers to choose European carriers such as Air France, rather than routing through Middle Eastern hubs.
Major reforms for Indian students
President Macron also announced sweeping visa reforms aimed at increasing the number of Indian students in France to 30,000 by 2030.
Key measures include:
Visa for full course duration
Students will receive a visa valid for the entire duration of their studies, removing the need for annual renewals. PhD candidates may receive a three- or four-year visa in a single approval.
Classes Internationales programme
A new preparatory pathway will allow students to spend a year learning French before joining degree programmes, making French higher education more accessible.
Five-year alumni visa
Indian students completing a Master’s degree in France will be eligible for a five-year long-term short-stay visa to support job searches and business activities in Europe.
Strengthening India–France ties
Speaking at an event in Delhi, Macron said France aims to make the visa process more transparent and reduce paperwork. He emphasised that visas should not be a barrier to educational and cultural exchange.
The announcement also includes measures to make student life easier, including wider acceptance of India’s UPI digital payments in France and access to government accommodation subsidies (CAF).
The reforms mark a notable step in strengthening India–France diplomatic and educational ties, benefiting both transit passengers and students seeking opportunities in Europe.