France has announced significant improvements to assist unauthorized foreign workers in obtaining legal status. 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 applying 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 regularization, Labor Minister Astrid Panosyan-Bouvet stressed. This represents a significant change that grants employees greater autonomy.
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 streamline the procedure further. 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 despite 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 profession listed as a shortage area.
Eleven thousand five hundred twenty-five persons were regularized through employment in 2023. By 2025, the number is expected to increase due to 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 aim to strike a balance between stricter regulations and workforce demands. The government seeks to strengthen its immigration system by addressing labour shortages and strengthening regulations. Many undocumented workers seeking stability and legal recognition are optimistic thanks to the new approach.
FAQS
What are the differences between the 2012 Valls circular and the new policy?
Before seeking regularization, undocumented workers had to get their employer’s approval, according to the Valls circular. This restriction is removed by the new policy, allowing employees to apply independently.
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 struggle to confirm their years of residency or employment in qualified professions.
