On 10/30/2025, the deputies adopted a resolution of the National Assembly on the 1968 Franco-Algerian agreement. It was in Paris, and this resolution was carried by the RN. It formulated the denunciation of the 1968 Franco-Algerian agreement. The vote, won by one vote (185 against 184), remains non-binding but shakes the executive, torn between renegotiation of the 1968 Franco-Algerian agreement and the status quo. Beyond the symbol, there are legal, diplomatic, and practical issues for students, families, and security cooperation.
An unprecedented vote, but without immediate legal effect
On 10/30/2025, the deputies adopted a resolution proposal regarding the denunciation of the 1968 Franco-Algerian agreement. This took place at the Palais-Bourbon, in Paris, and it was carried by the Rassemblement National (RN) group. The public vote no. 3260 was decided by one vote: 185 for, 184 against. The Assembly thus "adopted" a non-binding text, provided for by Article 34-1 of the Constitution. This article allows the chambers to formulate a political opinion without creating an obligation for the executive. Legally, nothing changes as long as the government does not denounce the 1968 France-Algeria migration agreement. Moreover, no modification occurs without opening a renegotiation of the 1968 Franco-Algerian agreement. Dossier and voting results – National Assembly; Article 34-1 – Légifrance.
Accounts and power struggles: an elusive majority
The RN took advantage of its parliamentary niche to place the text on the agenda. The tight result is explained by a combination of occasional support and absences. Some LR and Horizons deputies supported the resolution. However, some members of the central bloc (presidential majority) were partially absent during the vote. Marine Le Pen hailed a "historic day." Jordan Bardella invited the executive to "take note" of the signal sent by the Assembly. On the government side, Sébastien Lecornu, Prime Minister since 10/10/2025, stated that he respects the vote while favoring a renegotiation of the 1968 Franco-Algerian agreement with Algiers, a position also supported by several members of the majority. Appointment of the Prime Minister – Élysée.
What a resolution allows (and does not allow)
Article 34-1 imposes a strict framework on resolutions, as they do not bind the government’s responsibility. Moreover, they do not compel the executive to act and do not change the law. The vote of 10/30/2025 does not repeal the 1968 France-Algeria migration agreement. The denunciation of a bilateral agreement is the competence of the executive, but it must respect international law. Furthermore, it must follow established diplomatic procedures. In practice, three scenarios open up: status quo, renegotiation of certain clauses of the 1968 Franco-Algerian agreement, or formal denunciation followed by a transition period. Article 34-1 – Légifrance.
The 1968 agreement, a unique derogatory regime
Signed on 12/27/1968 and revised in 1985, 1994, and 2001, the 1968 France-Algeria migration agreement establishes a specific framework. Indeed, it concerns the movement, residence, and employment of Algerian nationals in France. It organizes access to residence certificates, including a 10-year residence certificate accessible under certain conditions. Indeed, the criteria include family ties and a regular stay duration, among others. This arrangement represents a derogatory regime to the France-Algeria immigration rules, as it stems from a complex historical link. Moreover, it responds to objectives of controlled mobility between the two countries. Official presentation – Ministry of the Interior; 10-year residence certificate – Service-public.fr.
The promoters’ arguments: equal treatment and budgetary cost
For its supporters (RN, several LR and Horizons deputies), the 1968 agreement enshrines an "Algerian exception" that would create a break in equality with other non-EU foreigners. They advocate for an alignment with common law and invoke a cost to public finances. A parliamentary report presented in mid-October by Charles Rodwell and Mathieu Lefèvre suggests an additional cost of around 2 billion euros per year. This estimate, discussed in the finance committee, has sparked methodological criticisms (scope, lack of consolidated tables). The presidential majority itself is divided: some advocate for the renegotiation of the 1968 Franco-Algerian agreement and the clarification of titles and benefits, while others fear a major diplomatic crisis.
The counter-arguments: political symbol, diplomatic and social risks
The left-wing groups (LFI, PS, Ecologists, PCF) denounce a symbolic maneuver devoid of immediate legal effect. They warn of a stigmatization of populations of Algerian origin, which could exacerbate tensions in public services. Indeed, prefectures, schools, and the health sector could be affected. Legal experts point out that any denunciation should be negotiated to avoid breaks in rights. Thus, families, students, and workers would be protected. Moreover, this would allow preserving cooperation in terms of security and returns.
A fragile bilateral context
Since early 2025, the Paris-Algiers relationship has strained over several issues. Notably, the France-Algeria visa policy and consular cooperation are concerned. Moreover, security and memory issues contribute to these tensions. The government intends to avoid escalation and favors technical exchanges to update a text 57 years old. The outcome will depend as much on the political balances in the Assembly as on the signal sent by the Élysée and the Algerian responses.
Scenarios: status quo, renegotiation, or denunciation
Status quo. The 1968 France-Algeria migration agreement continues to apply as is. Prefectures continue to issue residence certificates according to current criteria.
Renegotiation. France would notify Algeria of its desire to revise certain points. Notably, this includes the conditions of access to titles and the articulations with common law. Furthermore, consular coordination would also be concerned. This path requires a bilateral schedule and guarantees for people already holding a right to stay.
Denunciation. The executive could terminate the 1968 France-Algeria migration agreement, after diplomatic notification and a transitional period. It would then be necessary to adapt domestic law concerning titles and procedures. Moreover, it is essential to prevent breaks in rights for ongoing situations. This includes family, student, and professional situations. The effects on police cooperation and the France-Algeria visa policy would be immediate.
Concrete consequences: who would be affected?
Students and researchers. Thousands of Algerian students benefit from procedures clarified by the 1968 France-Algeria migration agreement. A renegotiation of the 1968 Franco-Algerian agreement could review the conditions of long-stay visas and status changes.
Families. The mechanisms of family reunification and the 10-year residence certificate will need to be secured. Otherwise, the already open rights risk leading to massive litigation.
Workers. Transitioning to common law would involve a harmonization of titles and a dialogue with professional branches and territories where Algerian labor is structuring.
Prefectures. Any reform requires clear instructions (lists of documents, deadlines, articulation with litigation) to avoid an administrative bottleneck.
Security cooperation and returns. The fight against irregular immigration and the execution of OQTF depend on effective consular cooperation. A standoff could slow down the laissez-passer and complicate removals.
A political sequence weighing on 2026-2027
For the RN, the resolution constitutes a strategic milestone in the perspective of 2027. For the traditional right, the vote allows it to tighten its line on immigration. For the majority, the equation remains delicate: preserve diplomatic interests while responding to expectations of public order and control of flows. This sequence interferes with the 2026 budgetary work and the reforms announced by Matignon.
What to follow now
- Position of the executive. A notification of renegotiation of the 1968 Franco-Algerian agreement to Algiers, or the announcement of a denunciation, would set the course.
- Diplomatic calendar. The creation of a Franco-Algerian working group is crucial. It will focus on titles and the France-Algeria visa policy. Moreover, it will address consular cooperation.
- Securing rights. Clear transitional measures (students, families, workers) are essential for the predictability of the France-Algeria immigration rules.
- Independent evaluation. A shared audit of the costs and effects of the 1968 France-Algeria migration agreement would illuminate the debate, beyond divergent estimates.