Indian nationals transiting through France by air will no longer need an Airport Transit Visa (ATV), the Ministry of External Affairs informed on Friday.
Middle East Airlines spokesman Randhir Jaiswal said in his weekly briefing on Friday that the new rule has been in effect since April 10. He also noted the high level of partnership between India and France.
“Indian nationals transiting through the French mainland exclusively by air will not require a transit visa, effective April 10, 2026… The decision reflects the enduring partnership between India and France, which was elevated to the level of a Special Global Strategic Partnership during President Macron’s recent visit and continues to facilitate smoother movement of people and strengthen people-to-people ties,” Jaiswal told reporters in New Delhi.
During his last visit to India in February 2026, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that measures would be taken to facilitate the travel of Indian citizens through France.
Following Macron’s statement, a decree was adopted amending the rules regarding documents and visas required for the entry of foreigners into French territory, and was published in the Official Gazette (Journal Officiel) on April 9, 2026.
Which airport transit visa has France canceled for Indian citizens?
A transit visa is a short-term temporary permit that allows a traveler to pass through a country’s territory (airport or land) while en route to the final destination. It is not for tourism or long-term stays; This is usually for a short stopover at the airport or just for a few days.
For France, a transit visa is required when traveling from an airport in a country outside the Schengen Area and staying in the international zone of an airport in metropolitan France while waiting for your connection to the final destination, which is also outside the Schengen Area.
Indian passport holders will no longer need to go through this confusing process.
If a person needs to go through immigration control to change airports or stay overnight while the plane is parked, a short-stay visa is necessary.
