India visa requirements for French citizens in 2026
Last updated 17 Aug 2026
Checked 17 Aug 2026
Entry requirement
Visa required — apply online or at an embassy
Max stay
30 days
Purpose
Tourism
Conditions for entry — required on every route
These apply whether you enter visa-free, on a visa on arrival, or on an e-Visa. Airlines can deny boarding if they're not met.
Passport validity
6 months from date of application
Onward ticket
Required — airlines may ask to see it at check-in
Your options
French passport holders travelling for tourism have the following routes into India:
1
E-Visa
RECOMMENDED
French passport holders planning a visit to India for tourism purposes do not need a traditional visa for short durations. Instead, an electronic visa (eVisa) must be applied for and approved online before travel. Processing typically takes several business days.
ENTRY
E-Visa
ALLOWED STAY
30 days
PURPOSE
Tourist
Application details
Verified against an official source
Entries allowed
multiple
Port restrictions
e-Visa is non-extendable, non-convertible & not valid for visiting Protected/Restricted and Cantonment Areas.
Required documents
- Recent front facing photograph with white background
- Photo page of Passport containing personal details
Last updated 20 Jul 2026 ·
Source: indianvisaonline.gov.in ↗
2
Embassy Visa
ALTERNATIVE
For French citizens looking to travel to India, securing a visa prior to arrival is mandatory. Please consult the nearest India embassy or consulate for detailed visa application procedures.
ENTRY
Embassy Visa
PURPOSE
Tourist
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Further notes
- Protected Area Permit (PAP) required for whole states of Nagaland and Sikkim and parts of states Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh, Uttaranchal, Jammu and Kashmir, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh. Restricted Area Permit (RAP) required for all of Andaman and Nicobar Islands and parts of Sikkim. Some of these requirements are occasionally lifted for a year.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa for India from France?
Yes, a visa is required for French citizens. France passport holders can apply for a tourist visa online.
Do French citizens need a visa for India in 2026?
Yes, a visa is required for French citizens. France passport holders can apply for a tourist visa online. Options include: E-Visa, Embassy Visa.
Can French citizens travel to India?
Yes, French citizens can travel to India, but an E-Visa is required.
What is the maximum length of stay in India with E-Visa for French citizens?
The maximum length of stay in India with E-Visa is 30 days. French citizens must leave the country within the specified period.
What happens if a French citizen overstays their visa in India?
Overstaying an E-Visa in India can result in fines, penalties, and potentially being banned from entering India in the future. It is important to comply with the length of stay specified with the visa and leave the country within the allotted time.
What is the maximum length of stay in India with Embassy Visa for French citizens?
The maximum length of stay in India with Embassy Visa is not specified. French citizens must leave the country within the specified period.
How long must my passport be valid to enter India?
India requires a passport valid for 6 months from date of application.
Do French citizens need a return ticket to enter India?
Yes — India requires proof of onward or return travel, and airlines may ask to see it at check-in.
About India
- Official
- Republic of India
- Capital
- New Delhi
- Currency
- Indian rupee
- Language
- English
- Calling code
- +91
- Population
- 1,429,404,000
- Region
- Asia · Southern Asia
Last checked 17 Aug 2026 ·
Entry rules can change at short notice — always confirm with the official source before you travel.