France to offer 5-year Schengen visa for Indian alumni under new education programme
Under the new programme, France plans to offer a five-year Schengen circulation visa for Indian alumni
France on Tuesday said its goal to welcome 30,000 students from India by 2030 is aimed at fostering academic excellence, boosting cultural links and enhancing long-lasting friendship between the two nations.
Under the new programme, France plans to offer a five-year Schengen circulation visa for Indian alumni.
France announced major new initiatives to roll out the "red carpet" for Indian students and alumni during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Paris last month.
The French embassy, giving out details of the programme, said France believes that when an Indian student spends even just a semester in France, it creates a connection that "ought to be fostered and cherished".
This is a special provision for Indian alumni to enable them to keep close links with France and their French counterparts, it noted.
The embassy said the specialised programmes will provide comprehensive training in the French language and other academic disciplines, enabling Indian students to excel in their studies and adapt seamlessly to the French education system.
It said the decision reflects France's commitment to making life as easy as possible for Indian students.
