Fresh statistics released on 1 April by the National Court of Asylum (CNDA) show France granted protection to 78,782 applicants in 2025—a 12 % year-on-year jump and the highest figure since records began. The overall recognition rate hit 52.1 % (47.1 % excluding unaccompanied minors). Ukrainians again topped the applicant list, followed by nationals of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Afghanistan. Landmark CNDA rulings in 2025 automatically recognised Gazan and, later, West Bank claimants, and extended protection to women from Iran and Somalia as well as LGBTQ+ applicants from several high-risk countries. The trend comes despite President Emmanuel Macron’s pledge to “significantly reduce immigration, beginning with irregular flows”. Deportation capacities, however, remain constrained: removal rates hover near 15 %. Business-immigration advisers say the data signal that humanitarian caseloads will continue to occupy prefecture resources, potentially lengthening processing times for work-permit and “Passeport Talent” renewals. Public polling published alongside the figures shows 60 % of French respondents favour stricter controls, suggesting immigration will remain a polarising topic ahead of the 2027 legislative elections. Employers relocating staff should budget extra lead-time for appointments and be ready to evidence strong economic value when filing corporate visas.
Source: YourNEWS
