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Sophie Maréchal
FR

French naturalisation

Becoming French through naturalisation is a demanding process, with requirements that were significantly tightened by the reform that came into force on 1 January 2026.

The firm assists naturalisation applicants in preparing their applications, anticipating the new requirements and, where appropriate, challenging a refusal or postponement decision, or a refusal to register an application.

Two routes to French nationality

  • Naturalisation by decree: this is a way of acquiring French nationality ‘by decision of the public authority’, through a decree granted at the naturalisation applicant’s request. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate lawful residence in France, professional and social integration, integration into French society and proficiency in French.
  • Declaration of nationality: this involves making a declaration of nationality, received and registered by the competent prefecture, in circumstances specifically provided for by the Civil Code: in particular, marriage to a French national, or being the parent, brother or sister of a French national.

What has changed since 1 January 2026

Law No. 2024-42 of 26 January 2024 and Decree No. 2025-648 amending Decree No. 93-1362 of 30 December 1993 introduced two new requirements, which took effect on 1 January 2026:

  • Passing a civic examination covering the principles of the Republic, how its institutions work, and the rights and duties associated with life in France;
  • A higher level of French: applicants must now demonstrate B2 proficiency in French to qualify for naturalisation;

Exemptions exist for certain circumstances, including age, disability and qualifications obtained in France; their application must be checked on a case-by-case basis.

This development is more than an additional formality: it changes how a naturalisation application is prepared. From the very first discussions, it is now necessary to anticipate the language level to be demonstrated and preparation for the civic examination, alongside the usual work of assembling the application.

How the firm supports you

  • An assessment of your eligibility and the route best suited to your circumstances (decree or declaration).
  • Preparing a coherent application: evidence of residence, stability, resources and integration.
  • Anticipating the new requirements introduced by the reform (language proficiency, civic examination).
  • Following the procedure through to the decision, and challenging a refusal or postponement where justified and appropriate in light of your application.

As every situation is different, an initial discussion with the firm helps assess the most suitable route and the points requiring particular attention in your application.