Published: 27.01.2026
Following a circular published in January 2025, exceptional regularisation has become subject to stricter criteria, including length of stay, French-language proficiency and the absence of a public-order threat. According to the sources, regularisations have declined, particularly on work and family grounds; refusals of residence permits are accompanied by removal orders.
For foreigners already in France without legal status, regularisation has become less predictable and less accessible. The sources cite requirements including seven years of presence, proof of French proficiency and no prior removal orders, while decisions remain at the prefecture’s discretion. Undocumented workers and applicants on family grounds are particularly affected. For people planning a move, this is a strong reason not to rely on later regularisation instead of obtaining the appropriate visa or residence permit in advance.