The French government has announced significant updates to the process of acquiring French nationality, with several new requirements coming into effect from January 1st, 2026. These changes, introduced through a decree published in July 2025, are part of France’s evolving immigration policy and will primarily impact those seeking French citizenship by residency or through marriage.
Key Changes to Be Aware Of
Higher Language Requirement
From 2026, applicants for French citizenship will need to demonstrate B2-level proficiency in French, up from the current B1 requirement. This change applies to both residency- and marriage-based applications.
Proof of language ability will still be accepted through certified diplomas or test results, and exemptions for individuals with disabilities will remain in place. However, foreign university degrees taught in French will no longer be accepted as proof—only degrees earned in France will qualify.
New Written Civics Test
A major new element is the introduction of a written test on French history, society, and civic values, to be completed before the interview stage. The goal is to better assess applicants’ understanding of French culture and reduce the workload during the assimilation interview.
The exact format and scope of this exam have yet to be published, but it will be a mandatory requirement for all applicants starting in 2026, alongside the existing in-person interview.
Updated Appeals Procedure
There is also a procedural update for applicants using the online ANEF system. In case of a rejection or deferral, appeals must now be submitted through the ANEF platform, unless there are technical issues preventing it.
What Will Stay the Same
Despite these changes, the core structure of the application process remains largely intact. Applicants by residency will still need to prove several years of legal residence in France, consistent tax declarations, and evidence of social and professional integration. For employment, this means regular and stable income—ideally at or above the minimum wage (SMIC)—with income sources primarily based in France.
The Ministry has recently reiterated that professional integration is key, pointing to examples like having one year of a permanent contract (CDI) or two years of fixed-term contracts (CDD).
For applications through marriage, the criteria are unchanged: you must be married to a French citizen for at least four years (or five if not continuously cohabiting in France for three of those years).
Required Documents
The list of required documents also remains the same—passport, birth certificate (and its certified translation), proof of marital or civil status, a clean criminal record, proof of address, and documentation of stable income if applying through residency.
Who Is Affected and When?
These new requirements will apply only to applications submitted from January 1st, 2026 onward. Those who submit their applications before the end of 2025 will be assessed based on the current criteria (B1 language level and no written civics test).
Final Thoughts
While the upcoming changes introduce more rigorous steps—particularly the written civics test and higher language requirement—they also aim to streamline the naturalisation process. Applicants planning to apply in the near future should consider starting the process before the end of 2025 to avoid being subject to the stricter requirements.
If you’re considering applying for French nationality, now is the time to prepare—either by gathering your documents, improving your language level, or consulting with an advisor to ensure your file is complete and up to date.
