From July 2025, foreigners wishing to obtain a residence permit in France will have to pass a French language test. This measure, initially planned for January 2026, was put forward by the government to strengthen the integration criteria, in application of the Darmanin law on immigration, adopted at the end of 2023.
A requirement for mastery of French to promote integration
The language component of the Darmanin law requires applicants for residence permits to have a higher level of French. This decision is part of an approach aimed at improving the integration of new arrivals, which the government currently considers insufficient.
Othman Nasrou, Secretary of State for Citizenship, recently stated that “the engine of integration in France is broken” and that it is necessary to relaunch it by demanding more from foreign nationals. “The more demanding we are in terms of integration, the more the cohesion of our country will be preserved,” he added.
Towards an extended integration process
The integration process, currently set at one year, could also be extended. This measure would allow new arrivals to be better prepared before being granted a residence permit for several years.
Nasrou indicated that proposals will be made in this regard within the framework of the new law planned for 2025, which aims to strengthen the selection criteria for applicants for residence permits.
A new law to regulate immigration
In addition to language requirements, the reform proposes measures on administrative detention and family reunification, as well as conditions of access to social benefits for foreigners. These new rules aim to strengthen security and social cohesion by tightening reception criteria.