France Announces Visa-Free Transit & Targets 30,000 Indian Students by 2030
France Announces Visa-Free Transit Facility, Targets 30,000 Indian Students by 2030: Key Takeaways from the Modi–Macron Meet
France announces visa-free transit facility for Indian nationals and sets an ambitious goal of welcoming 30,000 Indian students by 2030, marking a historic milestone in India–France relations. This major development was confirmed during the high-level meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron, where both nations elevated their ties to a “Special Global Strategic Partnership.”
The announcement signals France’s strong intent to become one of the top higher education destinations for Indian students. Alongside education, the partnership also expands cooperation in defence, artificial intelligence (AI), climate action, digital innovation, healthcare, and sustainable development.
Let’s explore what this means for Indian students and why France is fast emerging as a preferred global study destination.
France Announces Visa-Free Transit Facility: What It Means for Indian Students
One of the most practical outcomes of the Modi–Macron meeting is the introduction of a visa-free airport transit facility for Indian passport holders.
This means:
Indian nationals transiting through French airports will no longer require an airport transit visa.
Easier travel connectivity to Europe and other destinations.
Reduced paperwork and faster mobility.
A strong symbolic gesture reflecting France’s welcoming stance toward India.
This development simplifies international travel for students and professionals alike.
India and France Elevate Ties to a “Special Global Strategic Partnership”
During the meeting between Narendra Modi and Emmanuel Macron, the two nations upgraded their relationship to a Special Global Strategic Partnership.
This partnership covers:
Defence and Indo-Pacific security
Climate change cooperation
Clean energy initiatives
Artificial Intelligence and digital transformation
Space and cybersecurity
Education and research collaboration
Education and youth mobility are now at the core of bilateral engagement.
Target: 30,000 Indian Students in France by 2030
Currently, approximately 10,000 Indian students are studying in France. The new target aims to triple that number to 30,000 Indian students by 2030.
This expansion will likely result in:
Increased scholarship programs
More English-taught courses
Faster visa processing
Strengthened institutional partnerships
Expanded research collaboration
France is positioning itself as a strong alternative to traditional study destinations like the UK, USA, Canada, and Australia.
India–France Year of Innovation 2026
Another key highlight is the declaration of the India–France Year of Innovation 2026.
This initiative will focus on:
Science and Technology
Artificial Intelligence
Healthcare research
Sustainable development
Education exchange
Cultural collaboration
This creates enormous opportunities for students in STEM, healthcare, sustainability, and AI sectors.
Major Research Collaborations Announced
Digital Sciences & Technology Centre
A new binational centre in digital sciences and technology will be established between:
INRIA
India’s Department of Science and Technology
This centre will focus on:
AI and machine learning
Data science
Cybersecurity
Advanced computing
AI in Healthcare Research Centre
A dedicated research centre on AI in healthcare will bring together:
Sorbonne University
AIIMS New Delhi
Paris Brain Institute
The goal is to drive innovation in:
Brain research
Predictive healthcare
Medical diagnostics using AI
Neuroscience
This collaboration is especially beneficial for Indian students pursuing medicine, biotechnology, and artificial intelligence.
Why Study in France?
France offers a unique blend of academic excellence, affordability, cultural exposure, and global employability.
Here’s why France is increasingly attractive to Indian students:
1. Affordable Tuition Fees
Public universities in France are highly subsidized.
Average tuition fees:
Bachelor’s: €2,770 per year
Master’s: €3,770 per year
Engineering programs range between €3,770–€5,000 per year.
Private institutions and business schools may charge between €8,000–€20,000 per year, which is still competitive compared to other Western countries.
2. Globally Recognized Universities
France is home to prestigious institutions such as:
Sorbonne University
Université Paris-Saclay
HEC Paris
INSEAD
École Polytechnique
These institutions are globally ranked and offer cutting-edge programs in business, engineering, AI, luxury management, hospitality, and sciences.
3. English-Taught Programs
France offers over 1,700 English-taught programs, especially at the Master’s level. Students can begin their education in English while gradually learning French for better employability.
4. Strong Post-Study Work Opportunities
International graduates can apply for a post-study residence permit after completing a Master’s degree.
France is home to global corporations such as:
Airbus
L’Oréal
Renault
Opportunities are expanding in:
Artificial Intelligence
Clean energy
Digital technology
Healthcare innovation
Sustainable development
Scholarships for Indian Students in France
France provides generous funding options:
Eiffel Excellence Scholarship
Covers tuition, monthly stipend, travel, and insurance.
Charpak Scholarship
Specifically designed for Indian students. Includes tuition support and living allowance.
Erasmus+ Scholarship
Supports mobility across European universities.
Many institutions such as HEC Paris and INSEAD also offer merit-based and diversity scholarships.
Climate, Sustainability & Tech Collaboration
France and India are also strengthening cooperation in:
Renewable energy
Solar power
Green hydrogen
Climate-resilient infrastructure
Students in environmental science, sustainability, and energy management will find France highly aligned with global climate goals.
Conclusion: A Strategic Opportunity for Indian Students
France announces visa-free transit facility and sets a target of 30,000 Indian students by 2030 — a clear indication that France is serious about attracting Indian talent.
With affordable tuition, strong research collaboration, post-study work options, and government-level support, France is emerging as a top-tier destination for higher education.
The Special Global Strategic Partnership between India and France places students at the center of future growth.
For Indian students seeking quality European education, global exposure, innovation-driven learning, and career advancement — France is no longer just an option; it is a strategic choice for the future.