France Eases Entry for Indian Students with New 5-Year Schengen Visa
France introduces a 5-year Schengen visa for Indian Master's graduates, expands consulates, and sets new targets to strengthen educational ties with India while addressing student mobility.
France has introduced a series of measures to attract and welcome Indian students, including a new 5-year Schengen visa for Master’s degree holders. This initiative will allow Indian students who complete their studies in France to obtain an extended visa and apply for a multi-entry 5-year Schengen visa.
The decision aligns with France’s push to position itself as a top destination for international students, echoing President Emmanuel Macron’s pledge to host 30,000 Indian students by 2030.
In a related move, France has opened new consulates in Marseille and Hyderabad to expand consular services and enhance people-to-people exchanges between the two countries. The long-term visa is a significant step in strengthening bilateral ties as France seeks to deepen cooperation with India in education and beyond.
https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron/status/1750705399550902544
Key Measures to Welcome Indian Students in France
20,000 Indian students by 2025: Students will have access to French language training alongside academic programs in various disciplines.
Strengthened youth exchanges: Both nations will promote increased exchanges, particularly among young people.
International classes: Over the next seven years, France will set up these classes to accommodate more Indian students, offering instruction in French and other academic subjects.
Alumni network in India: France will grant five-year Schengen visas to Indian nationals who studied in France for at least one semester and earned a Master’s degree from a recognized university.
Mutual Recognition of Diplomas and Professional Qualifications
France and India are committed to joint efforts aimed at fostering the mutual recognition of academic degrees and professional qualifications. The goal is to streamline the mobility of qualified workers between the two countries. However, during the visit, NGOs such as Human Rights Watch highlighted concerns over the deteriorating human rights situation in India.
