France is set to introduce a new immigration law in 2025 as part of the right-wing government’s efforts to tighten border controls and immigration policies. Government spokeswoman Maud Bregeon announced the need for the new legislation, emphasizing its role in addressing migration concerns following the recent rightward shift in French politics.
The proposed bill, expected to be submitted to parliament early in 2025, is being spearheaded by Prime Minister Michel Barnier’s administration. One of the key measures under consideration includes extending the detention period for undocumented migrants deemed dangerous, increasing it from 90 to 210 days—currently only applied to terrorist offenses.
The move comes after a high-profile case in September, where a Paris student was raped and murdered by a Moroccan suspect, fueling further debate on immigration.
Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau, known for his tough stance on immigration, has pushed for stricter laws, including reinstating the offense of illegal residence. Retailleau, a former leader of the Republicans party, argued that the rule of law is not untouchable when it comes to protecting French citizens.
France passed an immigration law in December 2023, but many of its amendments were struck down by the country’s Constitutional Council. These provisions are expected to serve as a foundation for the upcoming bill, with potential modifications and additions.
However, not all government figures share the same urgency. Gabriel Attal, Barnier’s predecessor and now parliamentary leader of Macron’s Renaissance party, remarked that a new immigration law is not a “total priority,” emphasizing instead the need to improve the state’s control over border entry and exit.