In a landmark move aimed at strengthening travel, education, and people-to-people ties, France has announced visa-free airport transit for Indian nationals, alongside ambitious targets to significantly boost Indian student enrolment in French institutions. The announcements came during the official visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to India from 17 to 19 February 2026, at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The visa-free airport transit initiative, to be implemented on a six-month pilot basis, allows Indian travellers to transit through French airports without a visa. The pilot program will be closely monitored and reviewed, reflecting France’s commitment to easing travel and enhancing connectivity between the two nations. The move is expected to facilitate smoother layovers for business travellers, tourists, and students, and further strengthen France as a gateway to Europe for Indian travellers.
Expanding Educational and Student Mobility
Educational cooperation featured prominently in bilateral discussions, with both leaders reaffirming their shared goal of increasing the number of Indian students in France from the current 10,000 to 30,000 by 2030. Initiatives such as the International Classes program, which prepares Indian secondary school students for French universities through specialised linguistic and methodological training, were highlighted as key enablers of this growth.
Additionally, President Macron and Prime Minister Modi welcomed the establishment of a Mumbai hub uniting ESSEC Business School and CentraleSupélec. The hub aims to strengthen academic collaboration and professional pathways. A revision of the Mutual Recognition of Academic Qualifications agreement was also discussed, which will further streamline mobility for students and professionals across both countries.
Strengthening Migration and Youth Mobility
The India-France Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement (MMPA) and the Young Professional Scheme (YPS) were also underscored as key frameworks supporting workforce and student exchanges. A Memorandum of Understanding on skill development, vocational education, and training was signed, aimed at expanding professional opportunities for youth while deepening bilateral engagement.
President Macron’s visit, his fourth to India, also marked the inauguration of the 2026 India-France Year of Innovation in Mumbai, highlighting the two countries’ commitment to collaboration in education, research, and technological development.
The combined measures on visa facilitation, student mobility, and professional exchanges are expected to accelerate travel and academic collaboration, positioning France as a preferred destination for Indian students, tourists, and professionals alike.
