In a move that spells bad news for prospective immigrants to France, the French government has decided to enact stricter immigration laws. According to reports from an international news organization, the lower house of France has given its approval to the proposed bill aimed at tightening immigration regulations.
The bill, which garnered 349 votes in favor and 186 against, signifies a significant shift in France’s approach to immigration. The French Senate had previously approved a similar bill, solidifying the legislative stance on the matter.
Simultaneously, the United Kingdom has also raised concerns among South Asian communities with its recent announcement of new immigration laws. Scheduled to take effect in 2024, these changes have prompted anxiety and uncertainty among foreign families residing in the UK.
One notable modification is the establishment of a minimum income requirement for individuals wishing to sponsor family members. The threshold has been substantially raised from £18,600 to £38,700. This alteration has created apprehension, particularly among those who find themselves earning salaries ranging from £22,000 to £26,000 annually.
Speaking on the condition of anonymity, a 25-year-old British Pakistani legal expert based in the UK expressed the prevailing nervousness. “We are all nervous because the government has set a minimum income for a person living in the UK to sponsor a family,” the expert explained. The sudden increase in the limit from £18,600 to £38,700 poses a significant challenge for individuals earning around £21,000, as meeting the new requirement overnight is an impractical expectation.
As immigration policies undergo changes in multiple European countries, the impact on individuals and families navigating these shifts continues to unfold. The developments in France and the UK reflect broader global trends where immigration regulations are subject to ongoing adjustments, prompting concerns and discussions within affected communities.
