Economic integration of unemployed migrants
The Ministers of Interior and Labour in France issued a circular message to regional and departmental prefects, the French Office for Immigration and Integration (OFII) and France Travail detailing a request to increase labour participation among legal foreigners.
The circular calls for mobilising local stakeholders, professional federations, and training providers under a Pact for the Employment of Foreigners. It also encourages recognition of diplomas and professional experience. Strengthened language requirements under the 26 January 2024 law to control immigration and improve integration (CIAI) link A2-level French proficiency to eligibility for multi-year residence permits, supporting newcomers’ transition into employment and filling labour shortages.
Manual for a welcoming mandate for newly elected officials
Ahead of the 2026 municipal elections, the Association Nationale des Villes et Territoires Accueillants (ANVITA) produced the Manual for a Welcoming Mandate to guide local authorities in developing policies of solidarity and hospitality. The manual shares practical experiences from municipalities, offering advice on reception for exiled populations and other vulnerable residents including migrant groups. It covers key information on local stakeholders, integration services, and legal requirements, as well as implementation tools and case studies. Overall the aim of the initiative is to support inclusive, informed municipal policies, fostering language acquisition, regularisation, and broader social integration for newcomers.
Government data on immigration and integration for 2023
The government submitted to the Parliament a report on immigration and integration in France in 2023. The year was marked by preparation for the adoption of the 26 January 2024 immigration law. The law introduces new tools to manage migration flows, while aligning with the Pact on Migration and Asylum. Key measures link the right of residence to language and cultural knowledge, respect for Republican principles, and support the continued modernisation of the French asylum and immigration system.
In 2023, 127 876 people signed a Republican Integration Contract, a 16% increase from 2022. The AGIR programme, which provides comprehensive and individualised support for refugees, expanded from 26 pilot departments in 2022 to 52 in 2023. 45 territorial reception and integration contracts (CTAIs) were concluded or renewed. Integration Week in mid-October featured 537 events across mainland France and overseas, engaging local partners and state services in integration activities.
Proposed law would guarantee automatic renewal of long-term residence permits
A proposed law aims to make the renewal of multi-year residence permits and resident cards, including those marked “long-term resident–EU,” automatic in France. On 11 December 2025, the National Assembly adopted the bill at first reading with amendments.
Parliamentary changes establish that if the administration does not respond within four months of a renewal request, this silence will be considered an implicit approval. They also require authorities to inform applicants if non-renewal decisions rely on information from third parties, including the source of that information.
MPs requested two reports from the government: one on the possibility of removing taxes and stamp duties for permit renewals, and another on the consequences for foreigners whose renewal applications are not processed within three months.
Following adoption in the National Assembly, the bill has been sent to the Senate, which will review it and may propose further amendments before it can become law.
National award to recognise companies’ commitment to the professional integration of refugees
The Ministry of the Interior, with institutional and economic partners, launched the Companies with Refugees award to highlight firms promoting refugee employment and workplace inclusion. It aims to encourage responsible corporate practices, share best practices and recognise refugees’ contributions to the economy. The award supports France’s integration objectives by encouraging sustainable employment opportunities and social inclusion for beneficiaries of international protection.
Civics examination for a first application for a multi-year residence permit
The 26 January 2024 immigration law introduced a civic exam for first-time applications for multi-year residence permits for non-EU nationals. Part of the Republican Integration Contract (CIR) administered by OFII, the exam covers French values, institutions, rights, and responsibilities. The Ministry of the Interior launched a dedicated civic training website to help applicants prepare.
Changes in employment discrimination between 2016 and 2024
The 18th Employment Discrimination Barometer, conducted by the Ombudsman (“Défenseur des droits”) in conjunction with the International Labour Organization (ILO), finds that discrimination remains the most experienced barrier to employment in France. Over 90% of respondents report encountering it, with age and perceived origin as main factors.
According to the published findings, people perceived as Black, Arab, or North African are 2.8 times more likely to experience discrimination than those perceived as white, and half of job applicants report being asked illegal personal questions during recruitment or exams. The Defender of Rights recommends multi-year, cross-cutting plans to monitor and combat discrimination, and policies promoting equal access to employment opportunities.