Getting an Alumni Visa

Indian students in France can extend their stay in the country after the completion of their studies. A bilateral agreement was signed during the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2015. The visa allows Indian students in France to extend their stay for an additional 24 months after the completion of their studies: a 12-month visa renewable once for a period of 12 months.

In July 2013, the Ambassador of France to India decided to facilitate travel to France for Indian citizens residing in India who hold post-graduate degrees from France irrespective of the year of graduation. The 5-year visa allows its holders to stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days, with a 90-day gap between stays. Indian alumni of Indo-French dual degree programmes (PG) are eligible to apply as well. Alumni from all generations are eligible. Spouses and children of the alumni are also eligible for a visa under this initiative.

Eligibility

1. Indian alumni of Indo-French dual degree programs are eligible to apply.

2. Indian Citizen and should be residing in India

3. Candidate must hold a Master’s degree or PhD from a French Institute which ought to be recognized by the French authorities

4. Candidate must be planning to travel to France

5. Candidate must apply from India

*Students who graduated before July 2013 can also apply for the visa.

How To Apply?

1. File a regular application for tourist or business Visa

2. Attach a copy of French degree (Master’s, PhD, PG degree)

*Spouse and Children are eligible (if travelling).

Visa

1. Circulation Visa

2. Valid up to 5 years (subject to passports expiration date)

3. For business or Tourism

4. Multiple entry

In February 2016, France established the “Talent Passport,” a new type of multi-year residence permit (4 years) for skilled foreigners who wish to live in France. It has been conceived principally for researchers, artists, employees on assignments abroad as well as internationally renowned public figures. Foreign students who hold such a permit will find it easier to work in France after finishing their studies. The benefits of the Talent Passport also extend to their spouses, who are allowed to work in France as well.