Published: 31.12.2025
A civic exam is now required for first applications for a multi-year residence permit, a resident card and naturalisation. Language requirements have increased to A2 for multi-year permits, B1 for resident cards and B2 for naturalisation; stricter employment and income criteria also apply to naturalisation.
According to the source, from 1 January 2026 applicants for a first multi-year permit, a resident card or French nationality must provide proof of passing a civic exam and meet the required French-language level. Naturalisation applicants are also assessed against stricter employment, income and integration criteria. This directly affects documentation, preparation time and prospects for long-term status, especially for non-EU nationals planning to settle in France. It is worth reviewing these requirements before moving or applying, since the language test and civic exam are now part of the process.
- 🤔 rfi.fr