France is strengthening its integration framework for foreign nationals by introducing mandatory French language and civic examinations for certain residence permits and citizenship applications. These changes take effect on 1 January 2026 and arise from the implementation of the country’s 2024 comprehensive immigration law.
The new requirements raise the threshold for long-term residence and naturalization, particularly affecting applicants with limited French proficiency. Individuals and employers alike will need to plan carefully to meet the new standards.
From January 2026, certain foreign nationals applying for:
must demonstrate both language proficiency and, in many cases, knowledge of French civic principles.
Applicants for certain multi-year residence permits must now demonstrate French language proficiency at A2 level.
This applies in particular to:
Previously, applicants only needed to show that they were enrolled in or undertaking French language training.
Exemptions:
Multi-year talent categories and intra-corporate transferees are not subject to this increased language requirement.
Applicants for the 10-year residence card must now demonstrate B1-level French proficiency, increased from the previous A2 requirement.
Exemptions:
Beneficiaries of certain international agreements, including Article 50 Treaty on European Union permit holders and refugees, are exempt.
Applicants for French citizenship—whether by naturalization, marriage, or reintegration—must demonstrate B2-level French proficiency, up from the previous B1 requirement.
Language proficiency can be demonstrated through:
Language tests must generally be taken at approved examination centers, unless an official diploma or certification is provided.
Most non-EU nationals applying for:
will be required to pass a civic examination.
Exemptions include:
Further clarification is expected regarding additional categories and exemption criteria.
Applicants who do not meet the applicable language or civic requirements will not qualify for the requested permit or for citizenship.
For example:
Applications submitted before 1 January 2026 should not be subject to the new requirements. However, variations in how local prefectures apply the rules may create uncertainty, particularly for pending cases.
The intent behind these changes is to strengthen integration by ensuring that foreign nationals seeking long-term residence or citizenship have a solid understanding of the French language, civic values, and societal norms.
The comprehensive immigration law was published on 27 January 2024 and introduced broad reforms to integration pathways. While some provisions took effect earlier, the language and civic exam requirements were implemented in stages, with full application beginning on 1 January 2026.
The introduction of mandatory language and civic exams adds new layers of preparation for foreign nationals and employers alike. While designed to reinforce integration, the measures will require early planning, timely testing, and careful workforce coordination to avoid disruptions.
The new requirements raise the threshold for long-term residence and naturalization, particularly affecting applicants with limited French proficiency. Individuals and employers alike will need to plan carefully to meet the new standards.
Overview of the New Requirements
From January 2026, certain foreign nationals applying for:
- Multi-year residence permits
- 10-year residence cards
- French citizenship
must demonstrate both language proficiency and, in many cases, knowledge of French civic principles.
Updated French Language Requirements
Multi-Year Residence Permits
Applicants for certain multi-year residence permits must now demonstrate French language proficiency at A2 level.
This applies in particular to:
- Local-hire employees under the salarié category
- Individuals applying under vie privée et familiale (private and family life)
- Entrepreneurs and self-employed professionals (entrepreneur / profession libérale)
- Professionals in regulated fields requiring technical, scientific, or intellectual expertise (such as doctors, lawyers, and architects)
Previously, applicants only needed to show that they were enrolled in or undertaking French language training.
Exemptions:
Multi-year talent categories and intra-corporate transferees are not subject to this increased language requirement.
10-Year Residence Card
Applicants for the 10-year residence card must now demonstrate B1-level French proficiency, increased from the previous A2 requirement.
Exemptions:
Beneficiaries of certain international agreements, including Article 50 Treaty on European Union permit holders and refugees, are exempt.
French Citizenship
Applicants for French citizenship—whether by naturalization, marriage, or reintegration—must demonstrate B2-level French proficiency, up from the previous B1 requirement.
Proof of Language Proficiency
Language proficiency can be demonstrated through:
- Passing approved French language tests (such as TCF or DELF)
- Holding a recognized French-language diploma or certificate
- Providing evidence of sufficient schooling completed in French
Language tests must generally be taken at approved examination centers, unless an official diploma or certification is provided.
New Civic Exam Requirement
Who Must Take the Civic Exam?
Most non-EU nationals applying for:
- A multi-year residence permit
- A 10-year residence card
- French citizenship
will be required to pass a civic examination.
Exemptions include:
- Applicants renewing an existing multi-year residence permit or residence card
- Beneficiaries of international agreements (such as Article 50 permit holders or refugees)
- Applicants aged 65 or over
- Individuals with disabilities or chronic health conditions, subject to individual assessment
Further clarification is expected regarding additional categories and exemption criteria.
Civic Exam Details
- Format: 45-minute multiple-choice exam
- Passing score: Minimum 80%
- Content: Republican principles, and the rights and duties of residents in France
- Location: Official examination centers only
Practical Impact of the New Rules
Consequences for Non-Compliance
Applicants who do not meet the applicable language or civic requirements will not qualify for the requested permit or for citizenship.
For example:
- Individuals unable to meet the A2 requirement for a multi-year permit may be forced to remain on temporary residence permits, which are subject to a three-time renewal limit
- Permit refusals or delays may lead to employment interruptions or workforce planning challenges for employers
Applications Already in Progress
Applications submitted before 1 January 2026 should not be subject to the new requirements. However, variations in how local prefectures apply the rules may create uncertainty, particularly for pending cases.
Purpose and Legislative Background
The intent behind these changes is to strengthen integration by ensuring that foreign nationals seeking long-term residence or citizenship have a solid understanding of the French language, civic values, and societal norms.
The comprehensive immigration law was published on 27 January 2024 and introduced broad reforms to integration pathways. While some provisions took effect earlier, the language and civic exam requirements were implemented in stages, with full application beginning on 1 January 2026.
Looking Ahead
The introduction of mandatory language and civic exams adds new layers of preparation for foreign nationals and employers alike. While designed to reinforce integration, the measures will require early planning, timely testing, and careful workforce coordination to avoid disruptions.
Pros and Cons Summary
Pros
- Encourages stronger linguistic and civic integration
- Creates clearer, standardized requirements across applicant categories
- Supports long-term social cohesion objectives
- Aligns residency and citizenship with demonstrated commitment to integration
Cons
- Higher barriers for applicants with limited French proficiency
- Additional time, cost, and preparation required for exams
- Risk of permit delays or refusals
- Potential impact on talent attraction and workforce continuity