Additional pressure is exerted by phenomena such as an aging population and low birth rates.
Figure of the day: 7,726,000 immigrants currently reside in France, accounting for approximately 11% of the country's population.
According to INSEE data, 2024 has been a record year for France: the largest increase in the immigrant population in one year was recorded – 434,000 new immigrants. This is as many as in the previous three years combined.
Most immigrants come to France from the African continent. Of the 434,000 immigrants in 2024, nearly 70% were born in Africa. In comparison, in 1968, three out of four immigrants arriving in France held citizenship from a European country.
The French economy is experiencing a labor shortage in sectors such as healthcare, construction, agriculture, and logistics. Additional pressure is exerted by phenomena such as an aging population and low birth rates, which increases dependence on attracting migrants. At the same time, the country's population expresses high concern about the migration situation. According to an IFOP survey, 68% of French people consider migration a negative factor, and 75% support strict measures. These sentiments strengthen the positions of right-wing and centrist parties.
Against the backdrop of growing migration pressure, the French authorities continue to tighten migration policy. In January 2024, a reform was approved that includes new language requirements for residence permit applicants, restrictions on the extension of temporary permits, and tightening the conditions for obtaining citizenship. About 60,000 foreigners may lose or not receive residence permits due to the new requirements.
In February 2025, the Senate approved a bill prohibiting marriages for migrants who are in France illegally. In March 2025, the government announced changes to visa policy. An audit of the system is planned, along with expanding the powers of border services, and revising the rules for issuing entry and residence permits.
Trends toward tightening rules are also observed in other European countries, where it is proposed to create special camps for migrants in third countries, simplify and expedite the deportation system, as well as overall entry and exit procedures.
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