A new migration deal has been signed between France and the United Kingdom, aimed at preventing irregular migrants from crossing the English Channel in small boats, marking a significant step in bilateral border cooperation.
The agreement extends the existing Sandhurst treaty for another three years and introduces performance-based funding linked to the effectiveness of border control measures.
Under the new migration deal, UK funding for French border enforcement could reach up to €766 million over three years.
For the first time, a flexible portion of around €186 million will depend on measurable results in reducing irregular crossings, according to officials.
The move reflects increased pressure on both governments to deliver tangible reductions in Channel migration flows.
Crossings remain at high levels
Despite ongoing cooperation, official figures show that 41,472 people crossed the Channel irregularly in 2025, making it the second-highest annual total since records began in 2018.
At least 29 migrants died during attempted crossings last year, according to compiled official data.
French authorities say arrivals have already fallen by half in early 2026 compared with the same period last year.
As part of the deal, France will increase police presence in key coastal areas by 50%, reaching around 1,400 officers by 2029.
New surveillance measures will include drones, helicopters and enhanced electronic monitoring to detect and prevent departures.
A new detention facility near Dunkirk will also be built to hold migrants awaiting deportation orders.
Political pressure on migration policy
The migration deal comes amid growing political pressure in the UK over border control and migration policy, with the government pledging to strengthen enforcement.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the agreement would enhance intelligence sharing and operational capacity to protect national borders.
The issue remains politically sensitive, with opposition parties increasing pressure ahead of upcoming local elections.
Officials from both countries described the agreement as a major step forward in tackling irregular migration networks and disrupting smuggling operations.
The migration deal is expected to remain central to UK-France cooperation in the coming years as both sides seek to reduce dangerous crossings.
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