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Becoming French: citizenship and naturalisation
Routes to citizenship, habitual residence, language, integration, the civic exam and evidence.
See the essentials at a glance
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key points: Naturalisation · Mariage · Résidence · Examen civique
The clear answer
Naturalisation by decree generally requires five years of residence, with exceptions. It is not automatic: lawful stay, integration, conduct, language and assimilation are assessed.
Choose the right route
Separate naturalisation from citizenship by marriage and other family declarations. In 2026 naturalisation generally requires B2 French and a civic exam; use the official simulator.
Steps in order
Separate naturalisation from citizenship by marriage and other family declarations. In 2026 naturalisation generally requires B2 French and a civic exam; use the official simulator. Routes to citizenship, habitual residence, language, integration, the civic exam and evidence.
Documents to prepare
Civil status, residence history, income and tax, employment, language evidence and family records form the file. Foreign civil documents follow strict formal rules.
Budget and timing
Civil status, residence history, income and tax, employment, language evidence and family records form the file. Foreign civil documents follow strict formal rules. Do not budget only for the headline fee or purchase price; include translation, tax, insurance, advice, maintenance and delay reserves.
Risks and traps
Marriage, birth or buying a home does not by itself produce immediate citizenship. Check continuing marital life and the timing rules for each route.
Your checklist
Becoming French: citizenship and naturalisation: Naturalisation · Mariage · Résidence · Examen civique. Keep the official link, deadline, responsible person and written proof for every item in one table.
Editorial responsibility and change log
Publication team: FRA9 · Editorial lead: Pınar Mehmet
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