The French government passed a restrictive new immigration law last week, despite the country facing serious labor shortages.
Provisions to streamline the legalization process for undocumented migrants were watered down, leaving hundreds of thousands in uncertain situations.
However, new measures may offer limited hope.
The controversial law finally gained approval from Marine Le Pen’s far-right National Rally party after key concessions were made.
Their main objection had been proposals to regularize undocumented migrants working in sectors with labor shortages.
Limited Legalization Route Introduced
While not going as far as the original text, the adopted law provides a path to residency permits for undocumented migrants in high-demand jobs.
Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin estimates this could double annual legalizations to “ten thousand additional foreign workers.”
However, migrant rights groups said that the restricted criteria mean only a fraction of an estimated 600,000 to 900,000 undocumented migrants will benefit.
Most will remain stuck working illegally, unable to integrate fully into French society.
Harsher Crackdown on Illegal Status
Simultaneously, the law will crack down on irregular migration.
Fines of up to €3,750 for unlawful residence, abolished under François Hollande, are being reintroduced.
Employer sanctions for hiring undocumented staff will also be stepped up.
Who Are France's ‘Sans Papiers’?
Those without papers, known as ‘sans papiers’ in France, work primarily in construction, cleaning, hospitality, and care roles.
Most initially had legal status, overstaying visas being the main route into illegality.
Amadou, interviewed by France 24 under a changed name, has worked in France for 19 years after arriving from Mali on a work visa.
Despite help from his boss, the restaurant worker has been unable to regularize his status since an initial rejected application in 2012.
Economics Contradict Tough Stance
Studies show legalization generates fiscal income and benefits the economy.
With unemployment at decade lows, labor shortages in eight out of 10 sectors persist partly due to an aging workforce.
Targeting full employment while refusing migrant labor seems contradictory.
Domestic youth, largely educated and mobile, shun roles filled by migrants.
Patrick Martin of the French entrepreneurs’ union argues relying on foreign workers is now necessary.
Tighter Borders Ahead For EU Visitors
The controversial law aligns with a wider European trend towards more restrictive immigration policies.
This will impact European Union (EU) citizens and visitors who enjoy largely open internal borders under the Schengen Area.
France is among countries pressing for tighter external borders ahead of the 2025 launch of the ETIAS scheme.
The visa waiver will require pre-screening of visa-free travelers from over 60 countries.
Tougher immigration rules by leading EU states suggest the bloc aims to filter arrivals more rigorously.
Pressure on Neighbors to Follow Suit
As an influential EU member, France’s stauncher stance will put pressure on neighboring countries to implement stricter immigration controls.
However, its labor shortages may force softer policies for migrant workers despite the rhetoric.
The need for foreign labor is acute across the EU due to aging workforces and falling birth rates.
However, immigration remains a hot issue, with right-wing parties gaining ground.
Europe faces a difficult balancing act between economic demands and populist anti-migrant sentiment.
Cautious Steps Towards Recognition
While anti-immigration rhetoric remains strong in French politics, policy shifts acknowledge economic realities.
Seasonal visa quotas were quickly exceeded in Italy under its new right-wing administration.
Migrant policy analyst Anna Piccinni says resolving irregular status for committed workers is key: “This has to be part of the solution.”
France’s limited legalization route signals early recognition of immigration’s role in filling shortages.
However, with harsher sanctions and obstacles still in place, most undocumented migrants face an uncertain future.