France Proposes Immigration Suspension Amid Rising Numbers, While Spain Moves to Legalize Migrants
French Justice Minister GĂ©rald Darmanin has put forward a proposal for a two-to-three-year suspension of immigration. This suggestion comes alongside a call for public consultation on a migration quota policy, with the aim of alleviating pressure on jobs and salaries. The proposal follows new figures indicating an 11.2 percent increase in France's migrant intake last year.
This suggestion aims to alleviate pressure on jobs and salaries and was made alongside a call for public consultation on a migration quota policy.
In stark contrast, Spain is pursuing an alternative migration strategy. Its government has announced plans to grant legal status to an estimated 500,000 individuals currently residing in the country without authorization.
The proposed law would offer at least one year of legal residence to foreigners who arrived in Spain before December 31 of last year and have resided there for at least five months without a criminal record.
These contrasting national policies underscore significant divisions within Europe on immigration. The issue is anticipated to be a prominent factor in upcoming elections across the continent, including national elections in France and Spain next year.
France's Stance: Suspension and Quota Discussions
Darmanin, a conservative politician, would require support from the National Assembly to enact his proposed changes, as he does not directly set immigration policy. He previously advocated for a migration moratorium five years prior.
Official figures from the French interior ministry for 2025 show 384,000 residency cards were issued to foreigners, representing an 11 percent increase from 2024. Student visas constituted a large portion at 118,000, and humanitarian permits rose to 92,600, while permits for economic reasons decreased by 13 percent to 51,000.
The French discussion also includes concerns about perceived "double standards." This refers to actor George Clooney and his wife Amal Clooney being granted French citizenship despite Clooney's admitted lack of French fluency. Junior Interior Minister Marie-Pierre Vedrenne acknowledged public questions regarding this, although Interior Minister Laurent Nunez defended the decision.
Spain's Counter-Approach: Legalization and Integration
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has publicly supported granting asylum to individuals fleeing persecution and has opposed migration restrictions advocated by right-wing parties. This position is expected to be a key issue in Spain's national election.