France has announced that, starting January 1, 2026, all citizenship applications will require a new written and oral French language test at the B2 level and a civic examination. These changes, confirmed by a government decree on July 15, 2025, mark the most significant update to the citizenship application process in over a decade.
Applicants for French citizenship—whether by naturalization or marriage—must now show B2-level proficiency in both written and spoken French. This is a step up from the previous B1 requirement. In addition, all applicants must pass a new civic exam that tests knowledge of French history, republican values, and the country’s role in the world. The new rules apply to any citizenship application submitted on or after January 1, 2026. Applications filed before this date will follow the old requirements.
The TCF IRN (Test de Connaissance du Français pour l’Intégration, la Résidence et la Nationalité) will be updated from May 12, 2025, to test up to the B2 level. The listening and reading sections will each have 25 questions, with longer time limits to match the higher standard. Proof of language skills must come from official exams like the TCF or TEF, provided by France Éducation International or the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Paris.
The new civic examination will also be required for multi-year residence cards and citizenship applications. While the exact content is still being finalized, it will cover topics such as French history, civic duties, and the values of the French Republic. According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, these changes are designed to strengthen integration and ensure that new citizens have a strong understanding of French society.
Applicants should prepare for these changes by:
- Gathering all required documents (proof of residence, employment, civil status)
- Registering for the updated TCF IRN or TEF exam at an authorized center
- Completing civic training hours as part of the Contrat d’Intégration Républicaine (CIR)
- Filing the citizenship application online or at the local prefecture
- Attending an interview and providing any additional documents if requested
The process from interview to decision usually takes 12–18 months, but may take longer due to the new requirements. Those who apply before January 1, 2026, or already hold a valid B1 certificate, will not be affected by the new rules. Some groups, like visitor card holders or those with medical exemptions, may not need to meet the new language standards.
Experts recommend starting language preparation early, as reaching B2 level can take several years for non-native speakers. The French Ministry of the Interior oversees the process, and official information is available on their website.
Final details about the civic exam will be published by December 2025. For personalized advice, applicants can contact legal experts or consult official resources. These reforms aim to ensure that new citizens are well-prepared to participate fully in French society.
Learn Today
B2 level → An advanced language proficiency level indicating ability to understand complex texts and communicate fluently.
TCF IRN → Test assessing French language skills for integration, residency, and nationality updated to B2 level.
Civic examination → A test evaluating knowledge of French history, republican values, and civic duties.
Naturalization → The legal process by which a non-citizen becomes a French citizen.
Contrat d’Intégration Républicaine → A French integration contract including civic training required before citizenship application.
This Article in a Nutshell
France raises citizenship requirements from 2026, demanding B2 French proficiency and a new civic exam to strengthen integration and national values among applicants.
— By VisaVerge.com
