French authorities block marriage of Algerian national and French citizen

A French court and prosecutor have blocked the marriage of Mawloud Kaddour Djebbar, an Algerian national, and Émilie Raoult, a French citizen, in Saint-Omer. The refusal follows an administrative integration inquiry.

Authorities suspect the union may be a ‘mariage blanc’ (sham marriage) intended to regularize Djebbar’s residency status, as he is currently subject to an Obligation to Leave French Territory (OQTF). Djebbar originally arrived in France in 2022 using an Italian residence permit but has faced difficulties regularizing his stay.

The couple, who have lived together since February 2024, denies the allegations. Their lawyer, Me Fusillier, maintains that the relationship is a genuine romance and has taken the matter to court to contest the decision.