France’s Constitutional Court has rejected the amendment for an extended stay for British homeowners to stay in the country for more than 90 days, deeming it unconstitutional. The Telegraph reports that there is no avenue for appeal against the decision of the Constitutional Council, signaling the finality of the amendment passed in November.
The proposed legislation aimed to grant British homeowners in France unrestricted time in the Schengen country. However, post-Brexit, Brits, along with other non-Schengen nations under a visa facilitation agreement, are allowed a maximum stay of 90 days within a 180-day period. For longer stays, Brits are still required to apply for a long-stay visa, typically valid for up to six months.
The immigration bill, which includes the amendment for extended stays by Brits, has ignited debate and criticism in France, as it is perceived as unfair. The new legislation is anticipated to be one of the most stringent immigration laws, placing limits on access to state healthcare and mandating the deportation of individuals with a criminal record, among other provisions.
