France Removes Airport Transit Visa Requirement for Indian Nationals, Easing Travel for Those Seeking Schengen Visa from USA

In a major relief for Indian travelers, including many applying for a Schengen visa from USA, France has eliminated the airport transit visa requirement for Indian nationals holding ordinary passports. Effective April 10, 2026, the policy allows visa-free layovers in the international transit zones of French airports, such as Paris Charles de Gaulle, when connecting to a third country without entering French territory.www.tribuneindia.comdailypioneer.comapacnewsnetwork.com

The change stems from a February 2026 agreement between French President Emmanuel Macron and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his Mumbai visit, aimed at boosting bilateral ties and travel ease. India's Ministry of External Affairs welcomed the move, noting its swift implementation via a French decree published in the Official Gazette on April 9.ddnews.gov.in This operationalization means Indian passengers transiting exclusively by air no longer face prior hurdles, though a full Schengen visa remains mandatory for entering France.www.khaleejtimes.com

For those planning Europe-bound trips—whether directly or via Schengen visa from USA applications—this update simplifies itineraries through France, a key Schengen hub. Travelers must stay airside; exiting the transit area still requires proper visas, ensuring compliance with broader EU rules.