France-Visas website to shut down twice next week, risking holiday backlog
EU links trade preferences to migrant readmission, France backs tougher stance
Nation-wide public-sector strike snarls rail and Paris RER links to CDG
Latest News
Senate amendment seeks €3 million boost for immigrant language & civics training
Amendment 1415, tabled in the Senate on 3 December, diverts €3 million to fund extra French-language and civics courses needed to meet new residence-permit standards taking effect in January 2026. Business-immigration advisers say the boost could ease bottlenecks for assignees seeking multi-year permits.
Nation-Wide Public-Sector Strike Disrupts French Rail and Paris Transit on 2 December
A 24-hour strike by major public-sector unions on 2 December slashed rail frequencies, disrupted Paris RER links to CDG and Orly airports and spawned city-centre marches. Employers should expect longer door-to-door journeys, consider hoteling staff near stations and watch for additional stoppages if budget talks stall.
France-Visas Portal to Undergo Two Short Shutdowns Next Week, Raising Fears of Holiday Processing Backlog
France’s outsourced visa partner Capago will switch off the France-Visas portal for two four-hour maintenance windows on 3 and 9 December. Because every Schengen or long-stay visa starts on the portal, the move could snowball into appointment shortages at Capago’s Algerian centres during the pre-holiday rush. French employers and travel managers should file urgent applications immediately and warn travellers of possible delays.
Air France Unveils Michelin-Starred La Première Menus, Strengthening Premium Appeal for Business Travellers
From 2 December, Air France La Première passengers can sample new menus by three-star chef Anne-Sophie Pic and pastry chef Claire Heitzler, with gourmet ice creams arriving on 4 December. The upgrade reinforces the airline’s premium positioning and could sway corporate travel buyers choosing between trans-Atlantic first-class products.
Paris Scraps New-Year Champs-Élysées Concert Over Security Concerns, Altering Holiday Crowd-Control Plans
Paris police have pulled the plug on the New-Year’s-Eve concert on the Champs-Élysées, citing security and crowd-control worries. While fireworks remain on the agenda, travel and events teams must adjust guest flows, transport schedules and hospitality plans for the 31 December peak.