French Naturalization: The Complete Guide to Becoming a French Citizen (2026)

Last updated: January 2026 – Based on official procedures from the Ministry of the Interior

Becoming a French citizen through naturalization is a significant step that changes your legal status and grants you full political and civic rights. Unlike residence permits (cartes de séjour - CSP) or resident cards (cartes de résident - CR), naturalization grants you definitive French nationality, including the right to vote in all elections and eligibility for a French passport. Every year, approximately 100,000 people acquire French nationality. However, as of 2026, the requirements have become stricter: the required French language level has been raised to B2, and a mandatory civic exam has been introduced for naturalization candidates.

This guide explains every step to obtaining French nationality: eligibility criteria, compiling your file, the new mandatory civic exam (NAT), the step-by-step procedure, and expected processing times.

Key Points:

✓ 5 years of residence minimum (unless eligible for a reduction to 2 years)

✓ French Level B2 required (oral and written)

✓ Mandatory NAT Civic Exam (40 questions, score ≥ 32/40)

✓ Processing time of approximately 1 to 5 years (varies by Prefecture)

1. What is Naturalization?

Naturalization is the act by which the French State grants nationality to a foreigner who requests it. It is a discretionary decision: even if you meet all the legal requirements, the administration can refuse your application without having to justify the decision based solely on criteria. Naturalization is based on a global assessment of your integration into French society (stability in France, cultural assimilation, professional integration, etc.), beyond simply checking boxes.

Naturalization vs. Resident Card

Many candidates confuse these two statuses. Here are the main differences:

Status: The Resident Card leaves you as a foreigner (long-term resident), whereas Naturalization makes you a French citizen.

Duration: The CR is valid for 10 years (renewable); Naturalization is permanent (for life).

Voting Rights: No with the CR; Yes (all elections) with Naturalization.

Passport: Foreign passport with the CR; French passport with Naturalization.

Civic Exam: CR Level (advanced) for the CR; NAT Level (more demanding) for Naturalization.

Obtaining French citizenship confers expanded rights and a permanent foothold in France, whereas a residence permit remains temporary and revocable.

2. The Different Pathways to French Nationality

There are several procedures to become French:

Naturalization by Decree: The most common route. This is the standard path for the majority of applicants: you must have resided in France for at least 5 years (reduced to 2 years in certain cases, see below).

Naturalization by Marriage: For spouses of French citizens, by declaration after 4 years of marriage (or 5 years if the couple has not resided in France for at least 3 years of the marriage).

Other Declarations of Nationality: Special cases provided for by the Civil Code: children born in France to foreign parents (automatic acquisition at 18 under conditions), ascendants of French citizens, siblings of French minors, etc.

💡 Note: This guide focuses on naturalization by decree, which applies to the majority of candidates. Procedures by marriage or lineage (birthright/jus sanguinis) follow specific rules and do not necessarily require the same steps.

3. Mandatory Conditions for Naturalization

To be naturalized as French, you must fulfill all the following conditions:

Residence in France

5 years minimum of legal residence in France at the time of application (general rule).

Reduction to 2 years if you have obtained a French higher education diploma (minimum Master's degree) or if you have rendered "important services" to France (e.g., exceptional talent in a specific field).

No duration required for recognized refugees (refugee status) or certain stateless persons.

Residence in France must be continuous during the required period: a prolonged absence of more than 6 consecutive months can be considered a break in residence, resetting the 5-year clock. In short, avoid leaving French territory for too long before your application.

Republican Integration

French Proficiency: Since January 1, 2026, a B2 level (oral and written) of the CEFR is required. You must prove this via a French language diploma (e.g., DELF B2 or DALF) or a French school/university diploma (at least equivalent to the Brevet des collèges).

Passed NAT Civic Exam: You must score at least 32/40 (80%) on the new multiple-choice test regarding French values, history, and society (see next section). The certificate of achievement for this exam is a mandatory document.

Knowledge of Rights and Duties: You must demonstrate sufficient understanding of French laws and your rights and obligations as a future citizen.

Adherence to Republic Values: Liberty, equality, fraternity, secularism (laïcité)... Real assimilation into the French community is expected, both in action (respecting laws) and spirit.

Financial Resources

Regular and Stable Income: There is no legal minimum amount set, but you must prove you can support yourself (permanent contract/CDI, sustainable self-employment, sufficient income, savings, pension...). Short-term unemployment is not automatic grounds for rejection if your overall history is stable, but long-term financial precariousness can lead to a refusal.

Expenses and Aid: Your family burdens will be taken into account. The administration will also verify that you are not overly reliant on social aid. You must demonstrate financial autonomy and sustainable professional integration.

Morality and Absence of Criminal Record

Clean Criminal Record: You must have a clean record or no convictions incompatible with the status of a citizen (serious misdemeanors, fraud, or crimes lead to almost systematic refusal). The administration will examine your "Bulletin No. 2" (criminal record), and can refuse naturalization for "indignity" or non-exemplary behavior.

No Threat to Public Order: Any activity contrary to the interests of the French State or social cohesion (extremism, incitement to hatred, proven polygamy, etc.) will be grounds for refusal. You must respect French laws and republican principles in your daily life.

⚠️ Important: Naturalization is discretionary. Even if you meet all conditions, the administration can refuse your request. Therefore, prepare a solid and meticulous file; seriously demonstrate your integration and motivation to maximize your chances.

4. The NAT Civic Exam (Naturalization)

Since 2026, all candidates for naturalization by decree must pass a NAT level civic exam. This is a new national test designed to evaluate the candidate's civic knowledge and assimilation. This test complements the interview at the Prefecture (without replacing it) and is distinct from the lower-level civic exams for residence permits (CSP or CR).

Format and Modalities

Format: 40 multiple-choice questions (MCQ), taken on a digital tablet in an accredited center.

Duration: 45 minutes maximum.

Required Score: 32 correct answers out of 40 (80% success rate). A lower score results in failure, but you may retake the exam (upon paying the fees again).

Fees: Approximately €70 (average observed rate), paid by the candidate.

Two organizations have been accredited by the Ministry of the Interior to organize this exam: the Chambre de Commerce et d'Industrie de Paris (CCIP) and France Éducation International (FEI). You must register with one of these bodies (online, choosing the center and date) and pay the fees. On the day of the exam, bring a valid ID.

Content of Questions

The NAT level covers the same themes as the lower-level civic tests (CSP/CR), but with a higher degree of complexity. The questions cover 5 official themes:

Principles and Values of the French Republic – e.g., Liberty, Equality, Fraternity, secularism, symbols of the Republic...

Institutional and Political System – e.g., Constitution, Parliament, role of the President and Prime Minister, local authorities...

Rights and Duties of the Citizen – e.g., voting rights, civic duty, taxes, national service, justice, social security...

History, Geography, and Culture – e.g., major dates and figures in French history, heritage, territorial organization, Overseas Territories (DOM-TOM)...

Living in French Society – e.g., daily life (education, health, work), customs, lifestyle, politeness, local traditions...

Questions appear either as knowledge questions (testing factual knowledge) or scenario-based questions (evaluating your reaction or understanding of a situation in daily French life). Example: "What do you do if you find a wallet in the street?" (Expected answer: take it to the police or city hall; this tests honesty and knowledge of French procedures).

Preparation and Resources

The Ministry has published an official list of questions to help candidates prepare. This official questionnaire includes over 200 knowledge questions covering the 5 themes (scenario-based questions are not published in advance). It is strongly advised to study this question bank and read the Livret du Citoyen (Citizen's Booklet) as well as the Charte des droits et devoirs du citoyen français (Charter of Rights and Duties), official documents explaining fundamental principles. These resources are available online for free on the Ministry of the Interior's website.

Finally, do not hesitate to practice via specialized platforms. PrépaCivique has integrated the government's official NAT-level questions into its revision courses, allowing you to test yourself under real conditions. You will find the 258 official NAT questions published by the government, as well as numerous scenario-based questions. Practice regularly with timed mock exams to reach the required score of 32/40. With good preparation, the success rate is high—do not neglect this essential step before submitting your file!

5. The Complete Procedure (Step-by-Step)

Obtaining French nationality is a structured journey involving several successive stages. Here is the standard procedure for a naturalization application by decree:

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Ensure you meet all mandatory criteria before starting. In summary: at least 5 years of continuous residence (unless exceptions apply), validated B2 French level, stable resources, clean criminal record, etc. If one condition is missing, it is premature to file (refusal or adjournment would be inevitable). Also, note that the process is long: be prepared to remain in France during the processing time, respond to administrative requests, and keep your situation (job, housing) stable.

Step 2: Pass the NAT Civic Exam

Register for and pass the NAT civic exam as soon as possible. This is now a mandatory document. Book a session with an accredited center (CCIP or FEI), ideally several months in advance. Plan for 2 to 3 months of serious preparation (language/civics courses, revision) to ensure the required score. Once passed, you will receive a certificate of achievement—keep it safe, as you must add it to your naturalization file. NB: If you fail, you can retake the exam after paying new registration fees.

Step 3: Gather Documents

Compile your administrative file by gathering all requested proofs. The list of documents varies based on your personal situation (single, married, children, student, etc.). To ensure you miss nothing, use the official simulator on Service-Public.fr, which provides a personalized list. Generally: ID, residence permit, birth certificate (legalized/apostilled and translated if foreign), proof of residence, diplomas, work certificates or pay slips, recent tax notices, criminal record from country of origin, etc.

Tip: Anticipate documents that take time to obtain—for example, a foreign birth certificate with a certified translation can take weeks. Ensure every document is compliant (translation by a sworn translator, apostille if necessary). A complete and organized file is an asset.

Step 4: Submit the Application (ANEF Platform)

The application is now done online via the ANEF platform (Digital Administration for Foreigners in France). You must create an account, fill out the digital form, and upload all scanned documents (PDF preferred). Take time to scan or photograph every document clearly.

If you reside in an Overseas Territory not connected to ANEF or abroad, the online process may not be available. You will need to submit a paper file to the naturalization platform of your department or the French consulate. Check your local Prefecture's website for details.

Once sent, you will receive an electronic acknowledgment of receipt. The Prefecture will check if the file is complete. If a document is missing, you will be notified online and given a deadline to provide it. Important: If you do not provide the supplements within the deadline, your file may be closed without action (classé sans suite). If the file is complete, it will be registered, and you will receive a Submission Receipt (Récépissé de dépôt), which marks the start of the legal processing timeline.

Step 5: Assimilation Interview at the Prefecture

Once your file is processed, you will be summoned for an individual interview at the Prefecture. Conducted by a sworn agent, this interview evaluates your assimilation into the French community. It lasts 20 to 30 minutes and is conducted in French.

The agent will verify your integration: professional path, family situation, language level, knowledge of Republican values, and personal motivations. Expect questions like: "What are the values of the Republic?", "Can you name a significant event in French history?", "Why do you want to become French?". The goal is to ensure your request is sincere and that you are well-integrated.

Tip: Prepare seriously. Review the Livret du Citoyen and be ready to discuss your background and what citizenship means to you. Be sincere and relaxed.

Step 6: Final Decision & Ceremony

After the interview, the agent writes a report. The Prefecture issues an opinion and transmits the dossier to the Ministry of the Interior for the final decision. Processing times vary widely—from a few months to over 5 years in extreme cases. On average, expect 15 to 36 months after submission.

If Accepted: The Ministry issues a naturalization decree published in the Journal Officiel. You will be summoned to a Citizenship Welcome Ceremony to receive your declaration of nationality. You can then apply for a French ID card and passport.

If Refused or Adjourned: You will receive a written notification. An "adjournment" (ajournement) invites you to reapply later (often after 2 years) once you improve certain aspects (e.g., financial stability). A "refusal" (rejet) is a definitive denial based on legal conditions or indignity. You can appeal these decisions (recours hiérarchique or contentieux) within 2 months, though reversals are rare without a clear error of assessment.

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does it take to get French nationality?

Delays vary by Prefecture and complexity. On average, expect 15 to 36 months. Legally, the administration has 18 months from the receipt date to respond (12 months if you have lived in France for over 10 years), extendable once by 3 months. Patience is key! Keep your file updated with any changes (marriage, new job, etc.) during the wait.

What French level is required?

Since January 1, 2026, you must prove a B2 level (oral and written). This corresponds to an "advanced independent user." You need a recognized diploma (DELF B2, DALF C1, etc.) or a French academic diploma (Brevet or higher). Diplomas like a French Master's serve as proof.

Can I keep my original nationality?

Yes, France allows dual nationality. You are not required to renounce your original citizenship unless your country of origin prohibits it. Check with your consulate.

Is the Civic Exam difficult?

The NAT exam is the most demanding civic test. It requires 32/40 to pass. However, for a candidate who has studied the Livret du Citoyen and practiced the official questions, it is manageable. The questions are factual or common sense. Platforms like PrépaCivique offer the 258 official government questions to help you prepare.

How much does naturalization cost?

You must purchase a tax stamp (timbre fiscal) of €55 upon submission (non-refundable). The civic exam costs an additional €70. Also, budget for translations, photos, etc.

I am married to a French citizen: what is the process?

You can apply via Declaration by Marriage after 4 years of marriage (if residing in France) or 5 years (if residing abroad). You must prove a shared life and integration. This route is often simpler but strictly regulated. Divorce prior to acquiring nationality voids the application.