France has proposed stricter rules for issuing Schengen visas, specifically targeting countries that refuse to readmit their nationals who are staying irregularly in the country. The move comes as part of France’s broader effort to strengthen control over its migration policies and ensure national security.
Stricter Schengen Visa Rules Proposed
Prime Minister Michel Barnier recently announced plans to tighten the Schengen Visa rules and process for countries that hinder the repatriation of their citizens.
During a press conference, Barnier emphasized that France is struggling to maintain control over its migration policies and that immediate action is required.
Although Barnier did not specify which countries the new measures would target, reports suggest that the focus may be on North African countries, particularly Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. These countries have been reluctant to issue consular passes, which are necessary to deport their nationals staying illegally in France.
Incident Sparks Action
The push for stricter visa regulations follows a tragic incident in Paris, where a Moroccan national who had been ordered to leave France was involved in the murder of a Filipino student.
This event has heightened concerns about irregular migration and national security, prompting the French government to consider extending detention periods for illegal immigrants in exceptional cases.
Past Visa Reductions
In response to ongoing irregular migration issues, France previously reduced the number of visas issued to citizens of Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia in 2021.
The visa cuts were significant, with a 50% reduction for Algerians and Moroccans, and a 30% cut for Tunisians. Despite the reduction in visas, citizens from these countries continued to apply for Schengen visas in large numbers.
High Visa Applications in 2023
In 2023, nationals from Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia filed a considerable number of visa applications to enter France. According to Schengen Visa Statistics:
- Moroccan nationals submitted 310,057 visa applications.
- Algerian nationals filed 279,005 applications.
- Tunisian nationals submitted 85,917 applications.
However, due to the visa restrictions, not all applicants received approval. France granted 251,950 visas to Moroccan nationals, 185,832 visas to Algerians, and 71,451 visas to Tunisians. Rejections were also high, with 55,615 refusals for Moroccans, 93,151 for Algerians, and 17,271 for Tunisians.
Current Schengen Visa Rules for France
While the proposed changes to visa rules are still under consideration, it’s important to note that travelers from non-EU countries wishing to visit France must apply for a Schengen visa if they do not hold a passport from a visa-exempt country. Key requirements include:
- Valid passport: Must be valid for at least three months beyond the intended stay.
- Travel insurance: Coverage must be valid for the entire duration of the trip and meet minimum requirements.
- Proof of accommodation: Reservation for a hotel, hostel, or accommodation with a host.
- Proof of financial means: Sufficient funds to cover living expenses during the stay.
- Return or onward travel ticket: Evidence of a confirmed ticket for departure from the Schengen area.
Processing times typically range from 15 to 30 days, but visa approvals may take longer depending on the applicant’s nationality and the volume of applications.
Final Words
The current situation in France indicates a possible further tightening of visa rules, especially for countries that fail to cooperate in taking back irregular migrants. As France continues to face challenges in managing migration, the government may take additional steps to balance security with its international commitments.
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