How To Apply For France’s New 5-Year Schengen Visa For Indian Students

In a significant move aimed at bolstering educational collaboration between India and France, the French government has unveiled an initiative that offers Indian students holding a Master’s degree or higher the opportunity to acquire a five-year short-stay Schengen visa.

Emmanuel Lenain, the Ambassador of France to India, emphasized the commitment to fostering educational partnerships between the two nations, stating, “France will always be your friend, and we will do everything possible to ensure you have an amazing academic and life experience in our country.”

Benefits of Studying in France

Studying in France offers Indian students a number of benefits, including:

• Access to world-class universities and research facilities
• The opportunity to learn French, a global language
• The chance to experience French culture and lifestyle
• The possibility of working or interning in France after graduation

The French government is committed to making France a welcoming and attractive destination for international students. The new visa is a further indication of this commitment.

Key Steps to Secure a Schengen Visa

1. French Visa Application Form: Complete the online application form, print it, and affix your signature.

2. Valid Passport: Ensure that your passport is not more than 10 years old and has a validity of at least three months beyond your planned departure from France.

3. Copies of Previous Visas: If you’ve held visas for France, the Schengen area, or other countries, provide copies of these visas.

4. France Travel Health Insurance: Purchase travel health insurance covering metropolitan France and all Schengen countries, with a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros for medical emergencies.

5. Proof of Accommodation: Furnish evidence of accommodation for your entire stay in France.

6. Proof of Sufficient Financial Means: Demonstrate that you have adequate financial resources for your stay in France.

Documents for Student Schengen Visa

To apply for the visa, students must submit the following documents to the French Embassy or Consulate in their country of residence:

1. Proof of Enrollment: Include an enrollment certificate confirming your acceptance into a French educational institution or program.

2. No Objection Letter: If applicable, provide a no objection letter from your current educational institution indicating their approval of your study plans in France.

3. Internship Agreement: If you’ll be interning, include a signed internship agreement involving the French company, your home institution, and yourself, outlining the internship details.

Aside from this, applicants must additionally complete the following documents in order to obtain France’s New 5-Year Schengen Visa.

• A completed visa application form
• A valid passport
• Copies of previous visas
• France travel health insurance
• Proof of accommodation
• Proof of sufficient financial means

Where to Apply for a French Short-Stay Visa

The application process for a French short-stay visa may differ based on your country of residence. Generally, you can submit your application to one of the following entities:

1. French Embassy or Consulate: Apply at the French Embassy in your country, a French consulate in your vicinity, or a designated Visa Application Center.

2. Schengen Country Embassy or Consulate: In certain situations, you may apply through the Embassy or Consulate of another Schengen country designated by France for visa submissions.

It’s essential to verify the specific requirements, procedures, and documents with the relevant authorities or visit the official website of the French Embassy or Consulate in your country.

Studying in France presents Indian students with a unique blend of academic excellence, cultural immersion, and career opportunities, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a transformative educational experience.

The French government’s dedication to nurturing global education and collaboration is evident through this initiative, which aims to strengthen the bonds between India and France.

To qualify, candidates must have completed at least one semester of study in France and hold a Master’s degree or higher from a recognized university in India, France, or another third country.

Additionally, they must adhere to the standard Schengen visa application requirements. France’s commitment to this initiative underscores its dedication to fostering international education partnerships.