Paris - During his visit to France, Prime Minister Narendra Modi revealed that Indian students enrolled in master's degree programs in France will now be granted an extended post-study visa lasting for five years. Previously, students were issued a two-year work visa upon completing their studies. The announcement was made by PM Modi during his address to the Indian community at LA Seine Musicale in Paris, where he received a warm welcome from the attendees.

PM Modi stated, "Last time I came to France, it was decided that Indian students studying in France would be given a two-year post-study work visa. Now, it has been decided that Indian students pursuing master's degrees in France will be granted a long-term post-study visa of five years." The Prime Minister arrived in Paris for a two-day official visit and was greeted with a ceremonial welcome at the airport by French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne.

PM Modi expressed the significance of his visit to France as it coincides with the country's National Day celebrations and extended his congratulations to the French people. He attended the National Day Parade alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, highlighting the unbreakable friendship between India and France. In his address, PM Modi also commended India's progress in the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) system.

Furthermore, PM Modi revealed that an agreement has been reached for the use of India's UPI in France. The initiative will commence from the iconic Eiffel Tower, enabling Indian tourists to make payments in Indian Rupees through UPI at the landmark. He also emphasized the longstanding archaeological collaboration between India and France, which has expanded from Chandigarh to Ladakh, and acknowledged the role of digital infrastructure in strengthening bilateral ties.

During his visit, PM Modi was bestowed with France's highest honor. As a guest of honor, he will participate in the Bastille Day Parade, following an invitation from President Emmanuel Macron.