French National Assembly Approves Extension of Administrative Detention for Dangerous Foreign Nationals to 210 Days

In a significant shift for France's immigration policy, the National Assembly voted late on May 5, 2026, to extend the maximum administrative detention period for certain foreign nationals from the current 90 or 180 days to 210 days. The bill, championed by Renaissance MP Charles Rodwell and supported by the government and conservatives, targets non-EU individuals under expulsion orders who pose serious security risks, particularly those with prior convictions for terrorism or grave crimes like rape, torture, and armed robbery. This move addresses longstanding challenges in deportations, where the previous 90 or 180-day limits often led to releases due to delays in obtaining travel documents or organizing removals.

The legislation revives a measure previously struck down by the Constitutional Council in 2025 as disproportionate, now refined to focus strictly on offenders sentenced to at least three years for serious personal crimes, ensuring compliance with constitutional standards. For terrorism convicts, the cap rises from 180 days to 210 days, while other high-risk cases under removal orders extend from 90 days to the new seven-month maximum. Proponents, including Interior Minister Sébastien Lecornu, argue it equips authorities with vital time to enforce expulsions "without exception," citing over 40,000 detentions in centers last year and public backlash over premature releases.

The bill now heads to the Senate for review, potentially starting May 20, where Senator Bruno Retailleau's parallel proposal could lead to amendments or a joint committee. Critics, including socialists, decry it as a "communication law" enabling "prison without trial," but supporters hail it as essential for public safety amid rising concerns over irregular migration, prompted by cases like the 2024 murder of student Philippine Le Noir de Carlan. If passed, the change signals stricter enforcement for companies and individuals navigating France's immigration landscape.