France is ready to make significant changes to its immigration legislation: the government will introduce at least 27 new provisions aimed at attracting highly qualified specialists and simultaneously reducing the influx of refugees. We tell you about the key amendments.

Residence permits for qualified professionals

Foreign professionals who enter France illegally may be granted a residence permit for one year, renewable, if their qualifications allow them to work in sectors where there is a shortage of professional staff. 

Stricter rules on family reunification

Family reunification rules will become stricter, and foreigners will have to have lived in France for at least 24 months before being allowed to bring their family (six months more than the current minimum threshold). In addition, such people will be scrutinized more closely for income and health insurance membership.

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Compliance with French values

A notable provision gives authorities the right to refuse, revoke, or not renew certain residence permits if the applicant does not comply with French principles, including gender equality and freedom of expression.

Language requirements

The proposed law introduces stricter language requirements, potentially denying long-term residency if applicants do not meet minimum French language proficiency. The final exam will also include questions related to French culture and history.

Changes in access to health care

Migrants may lose access to public health care, leading to its transformation into emergency health care with stricter conditions for those in need.

Immediate work authorization for high-risk refugees

High-risk refugees will be allowed to work immediately upon arrival in France and after submitting an application to the French asylum office. This will avoid the current six-month waiting period.

Deportation for serious offenses

Persons convicted of offenses punishable by at least 10 years' imprisonment will be subject to deportation. It will also be possible to deport certain categories of citizens for whom relaxations were previously in force: these include those who arrived in France before reaching the age of 13, persons who have lived in the country for more than 10 years, parents of French children, as well as foreigners married to French citizens for at least three years.

When exactly the new law will come into force has not yet been announced.