Overview
To become French by naturalisation by decree, an applicant must show sufficient knowledge of French and of French history, culture and society, and must pass a civic exam. The prefecture also holds an interview to check that you have assimilated into the French community and agree with the essential principles and values of the Republic.
Who can apply
Service-Public lists these basic conditions for naturalisation by decree:
You are at least 18.
You hold a valid residence permit, unless you are an EU, EEA or Swiss citizen.
You are not subject to an expulsion order or a territorial ban.
You have stable and sufficient income.
You have not received certain criminal sentences, unless rehabilitated.
The normal residence requirement is 5 years in France, with shorter or no minimums for some groups, such as refugees. A 2-year minimum applies if you hold a French higher education diploma or have shown exceptional integration.
Exam pattern
The civic exam is a multiple-choice questionnaire in French.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Questions | 40 |
| Pass mark | 32 correct answers |
| Maximum time | 45 minutes |
It tests four areas: major landmarks of French history; Republican principles, symbols and institutions; rights and duties of French citizenship; and France's place in Europe and the world. The exam applies only to naturalisation and reintegration by decree, not to acquisition through marriage or family descent.
Marking and results
You need 32 of the 40 questions correct. A successful candidate gets a certificate that must be included in the naturalisation file. Medical certificates can support adjusted exam conditions or exemption where assessment is not possible.
Fees
The naturalisation application costs 255 euros, paid by fiscal stamp (127.50 euros in French Guiana), per Service-Public in 2026.
How to apply
Register for the civic exam with an approved centre, run by either the Paris Chamber of Commerce or France Education International. Candidates abroad contact French institutes, alliances or consular services.
Submit the naturalisation application online or by post.
Attend the assimilation interview at the prefecture and sign the Charter of Rights and Duties afterwards.
After the exam
The maximum processing time is 18 months, or 12 months if you have resided in France for 10 years or more. You are notified of the decree after it is published in the Journal Officiel, and it takes effect on the signature date.
Preparation tips
The government publishes a citizen's booklet, the exam reference document and the official list of knowledge questions, free of charge.
Check the immigration ministry's current language-level requirement for naturalisation before applying, as the Service-Public page states only "sufficient knowledge" of French.
How many questions are in the French naturalisation civic exam?
40 multiple-choice questions in French. You need 32 correct answers within 45 minutes.
Does the civic exam apply to naturalisation by marriage?
No. Service-Public states it applies to naturalisation and reintegration by decree only.