Residency France moves to clear record permit backlog as delays hit workers and employers Authorities step up staffing and reforms as processing times surge and backlog nears one million cases iStock.com/Stadtratte Image Izzy Wood Senior Reporter Thursday 23 April 2026 France is attempting to reduce delays in its residence permit system, after a sharp rise in applications left close to 930,000 cases pending and processing times well beyond official targets. Get AccessContinue reading Global Mobility LawyerAlready have access? Login now Email Enter your email address. Password Enter the password that accompanies your email address. Reset your passwordLog in Need access? Find out how to enjoy unlimited accessGet access You might also like... Compliance France moves to raise residency and citizenship fees Settlement Support Understanding France’s stricter language requirements Income Tax Expect France-Luxembourg teleworking threshold to rise Work Permits France’s Blue Card reforms widen access but add practical challenges