More Than 60,000 Foreigners in France at Risk of Losing Residency Due to New Language Rules
Key Points Rephrased
- France’s new language requirements may impact immigrants who struggle to renew their residence permits.
- Those who fail to meet the language criteria will be unable to obtain permits or secure employment.
- The new law affects over 300,000 people, with an estimated 60,000 at risk of not meeting the requirements.
Thousands of Foreigners in France at Risk Due to New Language Rules
The introduction of new language requirements in France could significantly impact over 300,000 foreign residents. Reports indicate that approximately 60,000 individuals may be unable to meet the language proficiency standards, putting their right to stay in the country in jeopardy.
Although initially planned for January 2024, these regulations have yet to take effect. The policy includes a written test, with language proficiency levels varying depending on the residence permit’s duration. Those applying for a two-to-four-year permit must demonstrate at least a middle school level of French.
Language Barriers Make Renewing Permits Difficult
According to France’s Interior Ministry, the new language requirements could result in 20,000 immigrants losing their residence permits, while an additional 40,000 may face rejections when applying for residency cards—bringing the total affected to 60,000.
Failure to meet the required language standards poses severe challenges for foreign residents. Without passing the language test, they will be unable to obtain or renew residence permits, preventing them from staying legally in France or securing jobs.
French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau, who introduced the policy, has defended the measure, arguing that foreigners who have lived in France for years should have made an effort to learn the language. However, many affected individuals have spoken out against the changes, labeling them unfair.
Concerns and Protests Against the New Requirements
On January 31, undocumented migrants gathered in Paris to protest the policy, arguing that it puts their futures at risk. Many shared their concerns about the added difficulties they already face.
"I am very stressed; I feel so threatened. As soon as I speak, I cry… I work in housekeeping, and it’s very difficult. Without legal documents, life is a constant struggle. We work irregular hours, sometimes three, five, or more hours a day—without contracts, and with the constant stress of not knowing how much we’ll be paid," said Ramata, an Ivorian woman.
Foreigners seeking a ten-year residence card will need to demonstrate high-school-level French proficiency, while those applying for citizenship must reach university-level fluency. This means they must be able to understand and articulate complex concepts using specific terminology.