France Introduces Stricter Language Rules for Residency and Citizenship (Effective 2026)
France has announced significant reforms to its residency and citizenship framework, introducing higher French-language standards and a new civic exam for foreign nationals. The changes will take effect from January 1, 2026, and apply only to applications submitted on or after that date.
Authorities say the reforms—rooted in France’s 2024 immigration law—are designed to strengthen integration, social cohesion, and civic participation, ensuring long-term residents can engage meaningfully in French society.
🔎 What’s Changing in 2026? A Clear Breakdown
🇫🇷 Higher French Language Requirements
The new policy raises the bar across residency categories, with proficiency levels aligned to the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages).
1) Multi-Year Residence Permits
- New requirement: A2-level French
- Previously: Proof of progress (no fixed level)
- Who it affects:
Salaried employees, family-based permits, entrepreneurs, self-employed workers, and regulated professions (e.g., doctors, lawyers) - Exemptions:
Talent Passports and Intra-Company Transfer permits
2) 10-Year Residence Cards
- New requirement: B1-level French
- Previously: A2-level
- Exemptions:
Refugees and persons protected by international agreements, including post-Brexit Article 50 permit holders
3) French Citizenship (Naturalisation & Marriage)
- New requirement: B2-level French
- Previously: B1-level
- Applies to:
Naturalisation, citizenship through marriage, and reintegration cases
Accepted proof of proficiency includes:
- Approved exams (TCF, DELF)
- Recognised diplomas
- Evidence of French-language education
🏛️ Mandatory Civic Exam — A New Requirement
France will also introduce a compulsory civic exam for non-EU nationals applying for:
- Multi-year residence permits
- 10-year residence cards
- Citizenship
Exam Details
- Duration: 45 minutes
- Format: Multiple-choice
- Passing score: 80%
- Content: Republican values, civic rights, and duties
Exemptions apply to:
- Refugees
- Applicants aged 65+
- Individuals with certain disabilities or long-term health conditions
- Permit renewals
- Applicants covered by international agreements
⚠️ Impact on Applicants and Employers
For Applicants
- Failure to meet language or civic criteria may result in rejection.
- Those unable to reach A2 may be restricted to short-term permits with stricter renewals, potentially shortening lawful stay.
For Employers
- Renewal delays or denials can disrupt workforce continuity, complicating access to international talent and project planning.
📅 What About Existing Applications?
- Applications submitted before January 1, 2026 are not subject to the new rules.
- Practical implementation may vary slightly by prefecture, particularly for cases already in progress.
🧭 Why France Made These Changes
Officials say the reforms aim to:
- Improve integration outcomes
- Reinforce republican values
- Ensure residents understand civic life and responsibilities
- Promote social cohesion amid evolving migration patterns
Although the law passed in 2024, full enforcement of language and civic measures begins in 2026—giving applicants time to prepare.
📝 How to Prepare Now (Practical Tips)
- Start language preparation early—A2/B1/B2 progression takes time.
- Choose recognised exams (DELF/TCF) and schedule tests well ahead of deadlines.
- Review French civic fundamentals (values, institutions, rights & duties).
- Confirm requirements with your local prefecture, as procedures can differ.
❓ Quick FAQs
- What are the new language rules for French residency?
A2 for multi-year permits, B1 for 10-year cards, B2 for citizenship. - Do these rules affect current residents?
Only new applications from Jan 1, 2026 onward. - Is the civic exam mandatory for everyone?
No—several exemptions apply (refugees, 65+, health conditions, renewals). - Which exams are accepted?
DELF, TCF, recognised diplomas, or proof of French education.
