A prominent legal association has initiated criminal proceedings against the Hauts-de-Seine préfecture. This action cites severe and systematic issues with residency permit delays. The Association des avocats pour la défense des droits des étrangers (ADDE) filed the complaint.
The association alleges that these prolonged renewal times often leave foreign residents without proper documentation. Consequently, individuals become “sans papiers,” jeopardizing their employment and welfare benefits. Furthermore, this status prevents them from traveling legally.
While long waits for residence permits affect foreign nationals across France, the Hauts-de-Seine préfecture in the greater Paris region stands out. It is reportedly among the slowest administrative offices nationwide. Many residents find it nearly impossible to secure renewal appointments there.
In numerous instances, appointment notifications arrive after the existing residency card has already expired. This situation leaves individuals in a vulnerable state, effectively stripping them of their legal rights. These significant residency permit delays are causing widespread distress.
Anaïs Place, an immigration lawyer and co-president of the ADDE, discussed the ongoing legal challenge. She confirmed the group is pursuing a class action. This collective approach aims to support numerous individuals let down by the current system.
Place further noted comments from Hauts-de-Seine Préfet Alexandre Brugère. He reportedly prioritized “orders to leave French territory” (OQTFs) and deportations. This focus led to the département’s resources being overstretched, consequently neglecting permit renewal applications.
Nationally, a sharp increase in processing delays for both new and renewed residence permits has emerged. Part of the blame falls on the Administration Numérique pour les étrangers en France (ANEF) website. This digital platform, crucial for many applications, is notoriously glitchy.
In May, France’s highest administrative court, the Conseil d’Etat, ordered the government to fix the ANEF website within six months. However, a past directive from former Interior Minister Bruno Retaileau also contributed. This instruction tightened processes for granting and renewing permits, leading to longer delays in many regions.
The current situation has been officially labeled a ‘national crisis for foreigners in France.’ This stark assessment comes from the French rights organization, Défenseur des droits. The cumulative effect of these issues continues to impact thousands of residents.
