Significant improvements to assist unauthorized foreign workers in obtaining legal status have been announced by France. A new list of occupations experiencing a labour shortage is part of the update, which is anticipated to be released by the end of February 2024. The immigration statute that was introduced earlier this year includes this modification.

The government wants to resolve the issues raised by the 2012 Valls circular. Before submitting an application for regularization, undocumented workers had to get their employer's approval under the Valls decree. Workers were frequently put in precarious situations as a result of this process.

The new regulation will let undocumented workers freely seek for regularization, Labor Minister Astrid Panosyan-Bouvet stressed. This is a significant change that gives employees greater freedom.

Updated Shortage Occupation List

The new law focuses on occupations that are in high demand in different areas. These demands have been drawn out by the Ministry of the Interior and the Ministry of Labor. Engineering and positions appropriate for master's students, who already make up a sizable percentage of economic immigrants, are in high demand.

Through the Valls circular, 34,724 undocumented workers were granted legal status in 2023. The new strategy, however, seeks to further streamline the procedure. Employees' journey to legal status will be made simpler since they won't have to rely on their employers.

Stricter Eligibility Rules

Stricter eligibility requirements have been implemented in spite of the revisions. Workers without documentation must demonstrate that they have lived in France for at least three years. Additionally, they must provide proof of two years of employment in a shortage-listed profession.

11,525 persons were regularized through employment in 2023. By 2025, the number is anticipated to increase as a result of the new modifications.

These changes coincide with larger initiatives to strengthen immigration laws. New regulations for unauthorized migrants were imposed in July 2024. These included sanctions for employers who hire undocumented workers and more stringent requirements for residency permits.

A Shift in Immigration Policy

The revised policies in France seek to strike a compromise between tighter regulations and workforce demands. The government aims to strengthen its immigration system by addressing labour shortages and strengthening regulations. Many illegal workers who are looking for stability and legal recognition have optimism thanks to the new approach.

FAQS

What are the differences between the 2012 Valls circular and the new policy?

Before seeking for regularization, undocumented workers had to get their employer's approval, according to the Valls circular. This restriction is removed by the new policy, enabling employees to apply on their own.

What other obstacles might the new pathway present for undocumented workers?

Because they lack formal documents or are afraid of employer reprisals, undocumented workers may have trouble confirming their years of residency or employment in qualified professions.