French Public Supports Temporary Immigration Pause, CSA Poll Reveals

Majority of French Voters Favor Immigration Pause

A new poll conducted by CSA for CNEWS, Europe 1, and the Journal du Dimanche, released on January 28, indicates that a significant majority of French voters support a temporary suspension of most categories of legal immigration. The survey found that 67% of respondents are in favor of a 'two or three-year' pause on new family-reunification visas and standard work permits. Only 32% opposed the idea, with 1% undecided.

The poll was conducted online on January 27-28, surveying 1,010 adults.

Minister Darmanin's Proposal and Exemptions

The findings come shortly after Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin suggested such a moratorium in a televised interview on January 25. Darmanin argued that France requires a 'breathing space' to re-evaluate its integration model, citing record inflows of nearly 4.5 million legal foreign residents and 384,000 new permits in the past year.

Under the proposed pause, certain categories of legal immigration would likely be exempt, including doctors, researchers, and a limited number of foreign students. Darmanin also suggested the implementation of an Australian-style quota system, to be decided by referendum, once the temporary freeze concludes.

Broad Support Across Demographics, Political Divides Remain

Support for the temporary immigration pause is widespread across various demographic groups. The poll revealed that 69% of women and 64% of men back the proposal, with clear majorities observed across all age cohorts. However, political affiliations show a notable divergence in opinion. While 96% of National Rally voters expressed approval, only 34% of those on the Green left supported the measure.

Concerns from Business and Legal Sectors

Despite the strong public backing, the proposal has drawn criticism from various sectors. Business leaders and universities have voiced alarm, warning that a blanket moratorium could negatively impact recruitment for crucial infrastructure projects, such as those related to the 2026 Winter Youth Olympics and the 2027 World Expo bid. They also fear it could deter international students, potentially pushing them towards competitor nations.

Legal analysts have pointed out that implementing such a moratorium would likely face significant parliamentary challenges and might necessitate either a constitutional revision or a referendum, processes that are not quickly completed.