France to Test ‘One In, One Out’ Policy, Sending Migrants Back Weekly

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Published: 05:24 BST

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What are the specific criteria, beyond criminal records or tired asylum claims, that will be used to prioritize migrants for deportation under the “one in, one out” policy?

The New Policy: A Detailed Overview

France is set to implement a pilot program based on a “one in, one out” policy regarding migrants, beginning in select regions. This initiative, announced in early July 2025, aims to address concerns surrounding illegal immigration and strain on social services. The core principle involves deporting migrants who arrive illegally for every new migrant granted legal residency. Weekly deportations are a key component of this strategy.

Target Regions: Initial implementation will focus on areas experiencing high levels of asylum seeker arrivals and documented challenges with integration. Specific regions haven’t been publicly disclosed as of July 10, 2025, but are expected to include areas along the northern and southern borders.

deportation Focus: The policy prioritizes the deportation of individuals with criminal records,those who have exhausted their asylum claims,and those who entered France illegally.

legal residency Criteria: New legal residency permits will be granted based on existing criteria, including skilled worker visas, family reunification, and successful asylum applications. The “one out” aspect directly links these approvals to immediate deportations.

Weekly Deportation Flights: the government has confirmed plans for regular, weekly deportation flights to countries of origin. This represents a important increase in the frequency of removals compared to previous years.

Understanding the rationale Behind the Policy

The French government cites several reasons for adopting this stricter approach to migration control. These include:

Reducing Pressure on public Services: concerns about the capacity of schools, healthcare systems, and housing to accommodate a growing migrant population are central to the policy.

Combating Illegal Immigration: The government aims to deter irregular migration by demonstrating a firm stance against unauthorized entry and stay.

Addressing Security Concerns: Linking deportations to individuals with criminal records is presented as a measure to enhance public safety.

Responding to Public Opinion: Recent polls indicate growing public concern about immigration levels in France, influencing the government’s decision. The policy aligns with promises made during recent elections to tighten border control.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

The “one in,one out” policy has sparked considerable debate among legal experts and human rights organizations. Key concerns include:

Compliance with international Law: Critics argue the policy may violate international obligations regarding the right to seek asylum and the principle of non-refoulement – the prohibition of returning refugees to countries where they face persecution.

Due Process Concerns: There are worries that the expedited deportation process may not allow sufficient time for individuals to adequately prepare their defence or appeal decisions.

Humanitarian Impact: Organizations like Amnesty international have expressed concerns about the potential for separating families and exposing vulnerable individuals to danger in their countries of origin.

Discrimination: Concerns have been raised that the policy could disproportionately affect migrants from certain countries or ethnic groups.

Impact on Asylum Seekers and Refugees

The policy’s impact on individuals seeking refugee status in France is a major point of contention.

Asylum Submission Processing: The government maintains that asylum claims will continue to be processed according to existing procedures. However, the “one out” component means that even successful asylum applicants will trigger a deportation elsewhere.

Vulnerability Assessments: Advocacy groups are calling for rigorous vulnerability assessments to ensure that individuals with specific needs – such as victims of torture or trafficking – are not deported.

Increased Backlog: Some experts predict the policy could exacerbate existing backlogs in the asylum system, as individuals might potentially be more likely to appeal decisions in an attempt to avoid deportation.

Safe Country of Origin Lists: France utilizes lists of “safe countries of origin” to expedite the deportation of asylum seekers from nations deemed politically stable. The use of these lists is frequently challenged by human rights groups.

Ancient Context: French Immigration Policies

France has a long and complex history of immigration. Recent policy shifts include:

2018 Immigration Law: This law tightened requirements for family reunification and increased the grounds for deportation.

Increased Border Controls: France has substantially increased border controls in recent years, particularly along its borders with Italy and Spain.

Integration Policies: The government has implemented various integration programs aimed at helping migrants learn French, find employment, and access social services. However, these programs have faced criticism for being underfunded and ineffective.

EU Migration Agreements: France actively participates in EU-level discussions on migration policy, including agreements with third countries to manage migration flows. The effectiveness of these agreements remains a subject of debate.

Practical Tips for Migrants and Asylum Seekers in France

For individuals currently navigating the French immigration system:

* Seek Legal Advice: Consult