France Has Dropped Its Airport Transit Visa Requirement for Indian Passport Holders

Indian passport holders transiting through French airports on their way to a third country no longer need to apply for an Airport Transit Visa (ATV), under a change confirmed by the French Embassy in India and in force since 10 April 2026. The exemption follows a joint announcement by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Emmanuel Macron earlier in the year, and applies specifically to travellers who remain within the international transit zone rather than clearing immigration into France itself.

What has changed

Previously, Indian nationals connecting through a French airport such as Paris Charles de Gaulle or Orly, even without leaving the airport or clearing French border control, required a dedicated Airport Transit Visa in addition to any visa needed for their onward destination. Under the new rule, that requirement has been dropped for holders of ordinary Indian passports, provided they do not leave the international transit area during their layover and hold valid onward travel documents.

What hasn't changed

The exemption applies only to airside transit. Travellers who need to exit the airport, collect checked baggage and re-check in for a separate flight, or who are entering France or the wider Schengen Area rather than passing through it, still require the appropriate visa. This is an airport transit change, not a broader entry-visa waiver for France or Schengen travel.

View on Google Maps →

Why it matters for Indian travellers

France's hubs, particularly Charles de Gaulle, are commonly used for connections onward to destinations across Europe, Africa and the Americas, and the previous transit visa requirement added a paperwork step even for passengers never intending to set foot outside the airport. Removing it brings France in line with several other European countries that already waive airport transit visas for Indian passport holders on genuine airside connections.

Traveller tips

• This summary reflects the rule as announced; confirm current requirements with the French Embassy or your airline before booking a connection through France, since transit rules can vary by specific circumstances.
• The exemption covers ordinary passports only; official, diplomatic or service passport holders should check separately.
• Keep boarding passes and onward tickets for both legs of the journey readily accessible, as airline staff may ask to see proof of a confirmed onward connection.
• If your itinerary requires leaving the transit area for any reason, including a terminal change that involves exiting security, a visa may still be required.