France operationalises visa-free transit for Indians transiting through its airports, says MEA.

PTI, April 23, 2026, New Delhi:  Indians transiting through France exclusively by air will no longer require a transit visa, as the French government has operationalised an agreement to remove such a requirement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal made the announcement at his weekly media briefing here, saying India welcomes the move.

Later in a statement, the MEA said the visa-free transit for Indian nationals transiting through the European territory of France has now been operationalised by the French government.

The decision showcases deep commitment by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Emmanuel Macron to strengthen bilateral relations, the MEA said.

At the media briefing, Jaiswal said 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 to India, as also further facilitation of smoother movement of people, and enhancing of people-to-people ties.

"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 April 10, 2026," Jaiswal said.

"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 of transit visas for Indian passport holders was agreed between the Prime Minister and President Macron during their meeting in Mumbai in February this year," he said.