Major changes are coming to the French naturalisation process, with new rules set to impact anyone applying for French citizenship by decree, reintegration, or marriage. From 1st January 2026, the language and civic knowledge requirements will be significantly tougher – and the way they’re assessed will shift dramatically.
Applicants seeking French nationality after 1st January 2026 will need to demonstrate a B2 level of French (oral and written), replacing the current B1 requirement. That means an upper-intermediate command of the language, as defined by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
This applies to foreign nationals requesting nationality through naturalisation, reintegration, or declaration via marriage to a French citizen. Proof must be submitted via an accredited language certificate no more than two years old, or through a French diploma. Notably, those holding foreign diplomas and comparability certificates – a method previously accepted – will no longer be exempt.
From conversation to examination
Until now, an applicant’s understanding of French society, history and values was assessed during an individual interview known as the “assimilation interview”. Under the new system, this knowledge will instead be tested via a formal civic examination, designed and standardised by the Ministry of Naturalisation. The content will be published in an official online guide, with test centres accredited by the state.
While the exact format of the exam is still to be confirmed, the aim is to provide a consistent and objective benchmark for integration. The passing threshold will be clearly defined, and results will form part of the required application documents.
Who is exempt?
Applicants with chronic health conditions or disabilities that prevent them from participating in language or civic tests may be granted an exemption, provided it is certified according to official medical guidelines. This is one of the few remaining exceptions under the new system.
A more streamlined process
The decree also revises the procedural side of naturalisation requests. Now, only applications that meet all basic criteria and are deemed likely to succeed will progress to the assimilation interview stage. Appeals against decisions such as dismissal or rejection must be filed through the same online portal used to submit the application – marking a push toward full digitalisation of the process.
What remains unchanged – for now
These reforms apply only to applications submitted from 1st January 2026 onwards. Any files already under review or submitted before this date will follow the current rules, including the B1 language level and the interview-based civic assessment.
So, for those who are already in the process – or planning to apply this year – the window remains open to do so under the existing framework.
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