The language exams implemented under the new immigration law expected to come into force in France have sparked great controversy among both immigrants and the French population. According to the new regulations, language proficiency requirements have been tightened for foreigners who wish to stay in the country for a long period or apply for citizenship. However, in the tests conducted, some citizens whose native language is French also failed.
The new language tests developed by the French government for foreigners wishing to obtain residence permits or citizenship have become a topic of debate. Nonetheless, it is claimed that the tests are so difficult that they cannot be passed, with even French citizens who took the tests failing. Previously, those wishing to obtain a residence permit (carte de séjour) in France only signed an ‘integration contract’ and committed to learning French. However, only citizenship applicants were required to take a language test.
The new law mandates that applicants must know French at least at the level of a middle school student. Higher language skills are demanded for long-term residence permits or citizenship applications.
60,000 PEOPLE MAY NOT OBTAIN PERMITS
An impact report on the new immigration law expected to come into force by the end of the year revealed that due to the tightened language requirements, 60,000 people may not be able to obtain residence permits in France. Priced at 100 euros (3800 TL), the tests, approved a year ago and part of laws that tightened border controls and facilitated the deportation of foreign immigrants, Government officials defend that the main purpose of these regulations is to encourage the integration of foreigners.
EVEN CITIZENS FAILED
A study by FranceInfo showed that the new exams are challenging even for French citizens.
Out of 10 French volunteers who took the language tests, half of them failed the written exam. Even a literature student who had completed a five-year postgraduate education also failed.