Indian travellers flying via France were previously required to obtain an airport transit visa, even for short layovers while connecting to another international flight. This rule applied even if passengers remained within the airport, did not collect checked baggage, and never crossed passport control. However, this has now changed. Read on to know more.
France Allows Visa-Free Transit For Indians
With effect from April 10, 2026, Indian nationals holding an ordinary passport are no longer required to get a transit visa while passing through the international zone of airports in France. As per a report by NDTV, the announcement was confirmed by the Embassy of France in India in a press release. The rule applies strictly to travellers who remain in the international transit area during their layover at a French airport while travelling to a third country.
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Earlier in February 2026, during his visit to India, French President Emmanuel Macron had announced that measures would be taken to ease Indian nationals’ travel via France. As per the news portal, following his statement, a decree amending the regulation of May 10, 2010, which governs visas and documentation required for entry into France, was adopted and officially published in the French government’s Journal Officiel on April 9, 2026. The new rules have since been incorporated into the official France-Visas platform, reflecting the new procedure for Indian passengers.
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What is France famous for?
France is globally renowned as the leading tourist destination, famous for its romantic capital Paris, iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum, and rich cultural heritage.