The impending signing of a new law tightening immigration rules in France is expected to take place within the next few hours, as announced by President Emmanuel Macron. This information was conveyed on the TF1 television channel by Gerald Darmanin, the minister who leads the Ministry of Internal Affairs, highlighting the government’s intent to push ahead with the measures without delay.
Darmanin stated, “I met with the President, and the law will be signed in the coming hours.” His comments underscored the executive branch’s commitment to swiftly enacting the approved provisions and reinforcing the legal framework governing entry, residence, and removal of non-nationals in France.
The minister explained that on Friday morning, January 26, and following Macron’s directive, a meeting would be held with all regional governors to initiate the practical implementation of the new rules. The plan calls for a phased rollout over the next month or two, during which the administrative processes will be adjusted to ensure that criminal aliens have their cases reviewed and deportation orders processed, with the goal of deportations being coordinated and sent out of the country in a timely fashion.
Darmanin praised the recent ruling by the French Constitutional Council, which validated key articles of the government’s proposal and rejected several amendments put forward by opposition lawmakers. The decision, according to the minister, strengthens the state’s ability to manage immigration and enforce the law across jurisdictions.
As described by the government, the package includes new prerequisites for residence permits, including language proficiency milestones that applicants must meet before permits can be issued. The emphasis on linguistic compliance is presented as a step toward better integration and public order, with officials arguing that language acquisition is essential for participation in civic life and the labor market.
The public discourse around the reform has been marked by demonstrations in Paris, with thousands of protesters expressing opposition to the proposed changes and urging the President not to sign the measure into law. The protests reflect a broader national conversation about immigration policy, security, and social cohesion, and they continue to shape political debate as the government proceeds with its timetable.
Meanwhile, questions about administrative capacity, legal safeguards, and the treatment of individuals already within the country have been central to discussions among lawmakers, legal experts, and civil society groups. The administration asserts that the tightened rules will be accompanied by clearer procedures, enhanced oversight, and due process protections, while critics emphasize potential risks to refugees and vulnerable residents. This ongoing dialogue is expected to influence subsequent amendments and monitoring mechanisms as the law is implemented and subjected to real-world testing in courts and on the ground.