Schengen Visa : In an Innovative move to foster educational collaboration between the two nations, the French government has unveiled an extraordinary initiative that is set to transform the educational landscape for Indian students with Schengen Visa. This initiative grants Indian students who hold a Master’s degree or higher a remarkable opportunity – a five-year short-stay Schengen visa. This significant development was officially announced by Emmanuel Lenain, Ambassador of France to India, who expressed France’s commitment to welcoming and supporting Indian scholars.
Emmanuel Lenain, Ambassador of France to India, emphasized the dedication of the French government in his statement: “Our teams are working double time to implement the decisions taken by President Macron and Prime Minister Modi in Paris to benefit students. France has always been an inclusive and diverse country, eager to share our rich cultural heritage and world-class education opportunities with Indian students. My message for Indian students: 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.”
Key Steps to Apply for a Schengen Visa:
To seize this incredible opportunity, Indian students must navigate a few key steps:
- French Visa Application Form: The process begins with completing the French visa application form online, printing it, and signing it.
- Valid Passport: Ensure your passport is not older than 10 years and has a validity of at least three months beyond your planned departure date from France and the entire Schengen territory.
- Copies of Previous Visas: Provide copies of any previous visas for France, the Schengen area, or other countries.
- France Travel Health Insurance: Purchase travel health insurance that covers medical emergencies in metropolitan France and all Schengen countries, with a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros.
- Proof of Accommodation and Financial Means: Present evidence of accommodation for your entire stay in France and demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover your expenses.
When applying for a student Schengen visa to France, additional documents are required, including proof of enrollment, a no-objection letter from your current educational institution (if applicable), and an internship agreement (if relevant).
Where to Apply for a French Short-Stay Schengen Visa:
The application process may vary based on your country of residence. Typically, you can submit your application to the French Embassy, a French consulate, or a designated Visa Application Center. Some situations may allow you to apply through another Schengen country’s Embassy or Consulate designated by France.
Indian students are increasingly drawn to France due to its blend of academic excellence, cultural immersion, and career opportunities. France’s commitment to this initiative underscores its dedication to nurturing global education and collaboration.
Schengen Visa application
To be eligible, 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. Their Schengen Visa application must adhere to the standard Schengen visa requirements.
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