A Guide for Refugees in France Balancing Work and Language Requirements

01/07/2024

Question that inspired this post:

One offi my friends is asylum in France for 10 years which expires in 2031. He got offi class but he only completed his 100hrs from 400hrs A1 and because at that time he finds works, after 1yrs they call again to continue but it's very difficult because working n wake up at 6 am to go at offi class in a week and also too far from his room, and now they terminate from offi class.

So, in that case, it's possible to renew titre de séjour, right now his work continues. If not renewed, he has no country to go back to because it's under China, he is from Tibet.

Answer

"Not doing your OFFI Civic and French Language classes is a problem. When you enter France you sign a document committing to do so. No matter how difficult it is to attend you MUST make every effort to finish Civic and French."

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Based on the information provided, here is formalitee.ai assessment of the situation:

1. Current status: Your friend has been granted asylum in France for 10 years, with his status expiring in 2031. He has a titre de séjour (residence permit) as a refugee.

2. Language requirement: He has only completed 100 hours of the required 400 hours of French language classes (OFII classes) at the A1 level. This is because he found work and had difficulty attending classes due to his work schedule and the distance from his home.

3. Work status: He is currently employed and has been working continuously.

4. Renewal concerns: You're worried about whether he can renew his titre de séjour given the incomplete language requirement.

5. Country of origin: He is from Tibet and cannot return to his country of origin, which is under Chinese control.

Here's formalitee.ai advice:

1. Renewal possibility: Despite not completing the full 400 hours of language classes, your friend should still be able to renew his titre de séjour. The fact that he has been working continuously is a positive factor for his integration in France.

2. Documentation: When applying for renewal, he should provide evidence of his continuous employment, any French language skills he has acquired through work, and explain the difficulties he faced in completing the OFII classes due to work commitments.

3. Refugee status: As a recognized refugee with a 10-year status, his situation is more secure than other types of residence permits. France has obligations under international law not to return refugees to countries where they face persecution.

4. Language requirement: While completing the language requirement is important, authorities may show some flexibility given his work situation. However, he should express a willingness to improve his French language skills.

5. Seek assistance: It would be advisable for your friend to seek help from a local refugee support organization or a lawyer specializing in immigration law. They can provide specific guidance on his case and help prepare a strong renewal application.

6. Early application: He should apply for renewal well before his current titre de séjour expires to avoid any gaps in his legal status.

Remember, while the incomplete language requirement may pose a challenge, his refugee status, continuous employment, and inability to return to Tibet are strong factors in favour of his continued right to reside in France.

The authorities are likely to take a holistic view of his situation when considering the renewal.

Reach out for questions.