France removes transit visa for Indians: Easier travel from April 2026
New Delhi: In a move set to simplify international travel for Indian passengers, France has officially removed the requirement for airport transit visas for Indian nationals flying through its airports. The new rule came into effect on April 10, 2026, and applies to travellers transiting through mainland France exclusively by air.
The decision is being seen as a major step toward smoother travel and stronger people-to-people connections between the two countries.
What this means for Indian travellers
For Indian flyers, especially those heading to Europe, North America, or other global destinations via French hubs like Paris, this change removes a key travel hurdle:
- No need to apply for an airport transit visa
- Saves time, paperwork, and additional costs
- Easier and faster layovers in French airports
- More flexibility in choosing flight routes
This is particularly beneficial for frequent international travellers, students, and business professionals who often transit through Europe.
Speaking at a weekly media briefing in New Delhi, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed the development and highlighted its importance.
“We welcome the announcement on the operationalisation of visa-free transit for Indian nationals transiting through French airports. As you may recall, the removal of the requirement for transit visas for Indian passport holders was agreed between the Prime Minister and President Macron during their meeting in Mumbai in February this year. The Government of France has now operationalised this agreement, and Indian nationals transiting through mainland France exclusively by air will no longer need a transit visa with effect from 10th April 2026...,” Jaiswal stated.
He further added, “The decision reflects the enduring partnership between India and France, elevated to the level of a special global strategic partnership during the recent visit of President Macron, and further facilitation of smoother movement of people and enhanced people-to-people ties.”
The visa relaxation traces back to discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron during their meeting in Mumbai in February 2026.
That meeting marked a significant upgrade in bilateral relations, with both nations elevating ties to a “Special Global Strategic Partnership.” The move signalled deeper collaboration across:
- Defence and security
- Technology and AI
- Space and nuclear energy
- Health and digital innovation
The transit visa waiver is more than just a travel convenience, it reflects growing trust and cooperation between India and France. Recent diplomatic engagements, including foreign office consultations held in Paris, have also focused on expanding collaboration across sectors while improving mobility and cultural exchange.