French Lawmakers to Debate Tighter Birthright Citizenship Rules in Mayotte

The proposed legislation requires both parents to reside legally in Mayotte for one year to grant children French nationality.

A new proposal by Les Républicains seeks to tighten birthright citizenship rules in Mayotte, requiring both parents to have legal residence on the island for at least one year.
Currently, children born in Mayotte can claim French nationality if one parent has lived legally in France for three months before the child's birth.
The proposal aims to address high migration pressures on Mayotte, particularly from neighboring Comoros, without requiring a constitutional amendment.
Supporters, including Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau, argue the measure will reduce the island's appeal to irregular migrants.
The debate is scheduled for February 6 during Les Républicains' parliamentary session, following recent devastation caused by Cyclone Chido.