Complete Comparison of the 3 Civic Exams: CSP, CR, and Naturalization

Last updated: January 2026 – Guide based on official Ministry of the Interior procedures

Choosing between the Multi-year Residence Permit (CSP), the Resident Card (CR), and Naturalization determines not only your status in France but also the level of the civic exam you must pass. Since January 1, 2026, passing a civic exam has become mandatory for any first application for a multi-year permit, a 10-year resident card, or naturalization. This guide compares the three paths (CSP, CR, NAT): eligibility conditions, exam difficulty, and strategies to pass on the first try, helping you choose the right path and prepare effectively.

1. The Multi-year Residence Permit (CSP)

The CSP (Carte de Séjour Pluriannuelle) is the ideal intermediate step for people recently settled in France. It avoids the annual renewal of a temporary permit and offers 4 years of stability. Generally, the CSP is obtained after approximately 1 year of legal residence in France (following a long-stay visa or a temporary residence permit). It carries the same mention as your previous permit (student, employee, private and family life, etc.) but exempts you from administrative procedures every year.

Eligibility Conditions

You must already hold a first temporary residence permit (or a VLS-TS) and continue to meet the conditions of this permit. The CSP can be requested after ~1 year of legal residence. You must also prove Republican integration by signing the Republican Integration Contract (CIR) and attesting to a minimum French level A2 for the first application (unless exempt, e.g., over 65). Level A2 equates to understanding and using simple sentences in daily life. Holders of certain visas (Talent, etc.) or beneficiaries of protection may be exempt from language and exam requirements in specific cases.

The CSP Civic Exam: Standard Level

It consists of questions on basic facts regarding the Republic and practical life in France. Covered themes include Republican values, fundamental rights, French symbols, and useful daily information (education, health, emergency numbers, etc.). The test is a 40-question MCQ in 45 minutes (on tablet or computer), with only one correct answer per question. You must obtain 32 correct answers out of 40 (80%) to pass.

Examples of CSP level questions: "What is the common emergency number for all of Europe?" or "From what age is school mandatory in France?". These questions remain factual and accessible, aiming to verify your basic knowledge and understanding of living in France.

2. The Resident Card (CR)

The Resident Card (Carte de Résident) is the residence title closest to nationality. Valid for 10 years (renewable by right), it offers great stability and almost total access to the labor market without restriction. Obtaining a CR means you are well integrated and wish to settle permanently in France. It is often the step preceding potential naturalization.

Eligibility Conditions

Generally, you need 5 years of legal residence in France to apply. Exceptions exist: for example, spouses of French citizens can apply for a CR after 3 years of marriage (and cohabitation), or parents of a French child may be entitled to it by right. You must also prove stable and sufficient resources and not constitute a threat to public order. Regarding language, a French level B1 (oral) is now required for a first resident card. This level ensures you can interact autonomously in most daily situations. Again, certain categories are exempt from the language requirement (e.g., refugees for this specific card).

The CR Civic Exam: Advanced Level

The test has the same format (40-question MCQ in 45 minutes, 32/40 to pass), but the questions are deeper than for the CSP. There are more questions on French History, political institutions (Constitution, role of the President/Prime Minister, etc.), and general French culture, in addition to the values and rights already present at the CSP level.

Examples of CR level questions: "In what year was the Constitution of the Fifth Republic adopted?" or "What role does the Senate play in French institutions?". The expected level of detail is higher: you must know key dates, the precise functioning of institutions, and have a broader civic culture. No external aid is authorized during the exam (no documents or translator). Your understanding of French must be sufficient to read and answer questions within the time limit.

3. Naturalization (NAT)

Naturalization grants you definitive French nationality. Unlike residence permits, you become a full French citizen, with all associated civic rights: right to vote, eligibility for office, access to a French passport, eligibility for public sector jobs, etc. Every year, about 100,000 people acquire French nationality. Since 2026, conditions have toughened: the required French level is raised to B2 (oral and written) and the civic exam is mandatory for all naturalization candidates.

Eligibility Conditions

The standard route is naturalization by decree. In principle, it requires 5 years of legal residence in France. This period can be reduced to 2 years for certain profiles (graduates of a French Master's, exceptional talents, etc.). Other routes exist (by marriage after 4 years of marriage to a French citizen, automatic birthright at 18 for children born in France, etc.), but they follow specific rules. Beyond residence, you must prove assimilation: have stable resources, a clean criminal record, and adhere to Republican values. Since January 1, 2026, you must justify a French level B2 (oral and written)—for example, by providing a French diploma (DELF B2 or equivalent) or a French university degree.

The NAT Civic Exam: Expert Level

This is the most demanding of the three levels. The test remains a 40-question MCQ in 45 minutes (required score 32/40), but the content covers all integration themes in depth. It includes knowledge questions on: Republican principles and values, the French political system, citizen rights and duties, history and culture, and life in society. Additionally, 12 concrete "scenario-based" questions are inserted into these themes. These scenarios describe daily life situations (e.g., discrimination, lost object, civic duty) and evaluate your reaction or knowledge of customs and laws in France.

Examples of NAT level questions: "You witness discrimination at work. What do you do?" (testing your understanding of legal recourse and the notion of fraternity) or "What are the symbols of the French Republic?" (expected: list flag, anthem, motto, Marianne, July 14th, rooster...). In short, the NAT level covers all CSP and CR themes with added complexity and an evaluation of your ability to behave as an enlightened citizen.

💡 PrepaCivique Tip: Do not underestimate any of these civic exams, regardless of the level. All require serious preparation. Familiarize yourself with the official questions published by the Ministry (available on the formation-civique website and the PrépaCivique training platform) and practice under real conditions with timed mock exams. The goal is to get it right the first time because failure will force you to retry later (with new procedures and extra fees).

4. Complete Comparison Table

This table summarizes the essential differences between the three paths (2026 situation):

5. Which Exam is the Hardest?

This is the most frequent question. Although the format is identical (40 questions, 45 minutes, MCQ on tablet) for all three exams, the content and difficulty vary significantly. In summary: the naturalization (NAT) exam is the most advanced, followed by the CR exam, then the CSP exam, which is the most basic.

CSP Level (Standard)

Questions on practical situations and basic facts. The questionnaire aims to verify simple but essential knowledge (Republican values, concrete functioning of daily life).

Example: "What is the European emergency number?" or "Is school mandatory until age 16?".

CR Level (Advanced)

Questions requiring finer knowledge of history and institutions. The CR level questionnaire assumes you have deeper civic education notions.

Example: "In what year was the Constitution of the Fifth Republic adopted?" or "What does the Constitutional Council do?". It may also include questions on French culture (historical figures, heritage).

NAT Level (Expert)

Complex questions including culture, heritage, and 12 concrete scenario-based questions. It is the most comprehensive exam: it can cover any theme of the official program with a high level of detail, and it also tests your practical judgment via scenarios.

Example: "You witness discrimination. What do you do?" (open question on civic obligations) or "Cite three symbols of the French Republic" (deep knowledge expected).

So, which is the hardest? Unsurprisingly, the NAT exam is, because it combines all difficulties. However, it depends on your profile: a well-integrated and educated candidate might find NAT questions approachable, while a minimally prepared person might fail even the CSP level. Do not rely solely on the level label (standard/advanced/expert): prepare seriously regardless of the exam. Remember that all require 32/40 correct answers—a high threshold of 80%. Statistically, pass rates are good for those who train beforehand, but very low for those who improvise.

6. Which Strategy to Choose?

The choice of procedure depends on your current situation and your long-term goals in France. Here are some strategic tips:

Choose the CSP if:

• You have been in France for a short time (less than 5 years) and need to secure your residence status quickly.
• You still struggle to meet the criteria for the resident card (resources, duration) or naturalization.
• You prefer to pass a standard-level civic exam first, which is more accessible, and gain 4 years of stability.

Choose the CR if:

• You are eligible (5 years of regular stay or 3 years of marriage to a French citizen, etc.) and want 10 years of stability without frequent renewals.
• You aim for nationality eventually but prefer to secure an intermediate step. Obtaining the CR gives you a solid status while you prepare for naturalization more serenely.
• You are ready to pass an advanced-level civic exam (and justify a B1 level in French).

Choose Naturalization if:

• You meet all conditions right now (5 years residence, B2 in French, etc.) and wish to become a French citizen without waiting.
• You want access to voting rights and a French passport, and commit to fully respecting citizen duties.
• You are ready for the expert-level civic exam (NAT) and a longer, more demanding administrative process (assimilation inquiry, interview at the Prefecture, processing times of 1 to 2 years or more).

Recommended Strategy

It is entirely possible to run procedures concurrently. For example, many candidates file an application for a Resident Card alongside their Naturalization application. Why? Because naturalization can take time (months or years of waiting). Having the 10-year resident card in the meantime gives you residence security. Furthermore, in case of failure or delay in naturalization, you will still have your acquired long-term resident status.

Warning: Each procedure is independent. Each requires its own civic exam (CR level for the resident card, NAT level for naturalization). You cannot reuse a lower-level exam for a higher-level procedure during the same period (upon filing, you will be asked for the certificate corresponding to the application). In practice, if you pursue both simultaneously, you will have to pass two distinct civic exams.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between the CSP and the Resident Card?

The CSP (Multi-year Residence Permit) is valid for 4 years and avoids annual renewals. The Resident Card (CR) is valid for 10 years and confers long-term resident status. Regarding exams, the CSP requires a Standard level civic exam, while the CR requires an Advanced level exam with deeper questions on French history and institutions. The CR also offers more rights (10-year stability, wider work access) but does not grant voting rights, unlike naturalization.

Is the civic exam for the 10-year card harder than the CSP one?

Yes. The exam for the Resident Card (CR) is 'Advanced' level. It contains sharper questions on French History, political institutions, and French culture than the Standard level CSP exam. For example, where the CSP might ask about the Republic's motto or the emergency number, the CR might ask about the adoption date of the 1958 Constitution or the precise role of Parliament. The required pass rate remains the same (80%), making the CR effectively more selective.

Is the naturalization exam the hardest of the three?

Absolutely. The NAT (Naturalization) exam is the most demanding level. It covers all CSP and CR themes, with more complex and nuanced questions on culture, heritage, and history, and includes 12 concrete scenarios to solve. This exam aims to evaluate not just factual knowledge, but your understanding of the French way of life and your ability to react as a responsible citizen. Like the other two, you need 32/40 to pass, requiring solid preparation. In short, the NAT exam is a true test of assimilation in the broad sense.

What score is needed to pass the civic exam?

Whether for CSP, CR, or Naturalization, you must obtain a score of 32/40 (80% correct answers) to validate the exam. The format is identical in all cases: 40 multiple-choice questions, 45 minutes on a tablet, only one correct answer per question. There are no partial scores or compensation: below 32 correct answers, it is a failure. However, once this score is reached or exceeded, a certificate of achievement is issued to you, which you can attach to your administrative file.

Can I take the CR exam if I am applying for a CSP (or vice-versa)?

No. The exam center will administer the questionnaire corresponding to the residence permit indicated on your official convocation. You cannot freely 'choose' an exam level different from your application. For example, if you file for a 10-year resident card, you will be summoned to the CR level civic exam. It is not possible to take the NAT exam (harder) instead, nor to present the CSP exam (easier) for a CR application—your file would be refused because the certificate would not match. Ensure you register for the correct exam based on your application.

If I fail the CR exam, do I get a CSP instead?

No. The civic exam has only two outcomes: pass or fail, and it is specific to the procedure. If you take the CR level exam and get less than 32/40, you obtain no certificate of achievement. Your application for a resident card cannot succeed in this cycle. You do not 'fall back' to a CSP by default. In case of failure, you must register for a later session (after a new convocation) and pass the exam. This highlights the importance of preparing well, especially since the CR exam is harder than the CSP.

Can I retake the civic exam if I fail?

Yes, of course. In case of failure in a civic exam (regardless of level), you can re-register and try again. There is no limit on the number of attempts, but each failed attempt costs you time in your procedures, and registration fees (approx. €70 each time) must be paid again. It is generally necessary to wait for the next available session at your exam center. Use this delay to train more, review your weak points, and potentially use online preparation tools to maximize your chances next time.

Does the certificate of achievement have an expiration date?

No. Good news, the certificate of achievement has no validity limit. Once you have passed the civic exam, the certificate issued is valid indefinitely for all relevant administrative procedures. In other words, you will generally only pass the civic exam once in your life, as long as you keep proof of your success. For example, if you pass the civic exam for a CSP application, and a few years later apply for naturalization, your initial certificate will suffice (assuming the level matches or rules allow).

What is the difference between the Resident Card and Naturalization?

The Resident Card (also called '10-year card') maintains you in foreigner status. While you are a very well-integrated foreigner with a long-term right of residence, legally you are not a French citizen. You keep your original nationality and do not get the right to vote in France. Naturalization, conversely, makes you a French citizen. You change civic status: you get a French ID card, the right to vote and run for elections, the possibility to work in the civil service, etc. In short, the CR is an achievement as an immigrant (securing 10 years renewable residence), while naturalization is a new beginning as a French citizen.

Can I apply for naturalization without first having the Resident Card?

Yes, it is possible. It is not mandatory to hold a resident card before applying for French nationality. Many candidates file for naturalization after 5 years of residence (or via marriage) without ever having held a 10-year resident card. Authorities will examine your naturalization file directly. However, in practice, obtaining the resident card first can be an advantage. On one hand, it proves a certain level of stability and integration (favorable for naturalization). On the other hand, in case of naturalization failure or extended delays, you at least have a 10-year residence permit in the meantime. In summary: yes, you can skip the CR step, but many choose to do it in parallel for security.

What French level must be justified for each exam?

Language requirements were recently strengthened. For the CSP (4 years) and CR (10 years), you generally must justify a level A2 to B1 in oral French (minimum A2 for CSP, B1 for CR). In practice, aiming for oral B1 is strongly advised even for CSP, as it will facilitate passing the exam and integrating in France. For Naturalization, the required level is B2 (expression and comprehension, oral and written) as of January 1, 2026. This B2 level corresponds to an 'advanced independent' user. Proof must be provided with a diploma or official certification (e.g., DELF B2 diploma, or recent TCF/TEF tests).

How much does the civic exam cost and how do I register?

The civic exam is not free. Fees are approximately €70 per attempt (rates may vary slightly by organization and region). Two organizations are accredited by the Ministry of the Interior: CCIP (Chambre de Commerce et d'Industrie de Paris) and France Éducation International (FEI). Registration is done online via their portals, where you choose an accredited exam center near you and an available date. Payment is made upon registration. On the day of the exam, present a valid ID and your convocation. Results are generally available within 24 hours in your online candidate space.

Official Sources: Ministry of the Interior (Law of Jan 26, 2024, and 2025 decrees); Service-Public.fr (pages on Multi-year Residence Permit, Resident Card, Naturalization); official site formation-civique.interieur.gouv.fr (Citizen's Booklet, official program). All information is compliant with regulations in force in 2026. Good preparation to all!