Starting January 1, 2026, France is raising its language standards for people applying for nationality, long-term residency, or multi-year residence permits. If you’ve just discovered that you’ll need to pass a French exam—don’t panic. This guide breaks down exactly what you need to know and how to get started today.
The France government has now made it mandatory for anyone wishing to acquire the French nationality to have at least a level B2 in French. For many people, especially people who live in France for many years, this seems like a big challenge. But rest assured that it can be done.
Who Needs to Take a French Exam Now?
As of 2026, the required levels of French have been raised:
For French nationality (naturalization, marriage, or reinstatement): Level B2, both written and spoken.
For a long-term residence card (carte de résident): Level B1, written and spoken.
For a multi-year residence permit (carte de séjour pluriannuelle): Level A2, written and spoken.
If you were planning to apply after 2026—or just realized these rules affect you—this post is your roadmap.
Heads Up: There’s Also a Civic Exam Now
Yep, along with the language test, there’s a new civic exam starting in 2026. It’s designed to make sure you understand how things work in France.
You’ll need to know about:
The values of the Republic (like equality, secularism, democracy)
Rights and duties of French citizens
How French society is organized
To get ready, check out the official livret du citoyen (citizen handbook) Livret_du_citoyen_V2fev2022 and practice with online quizzes. Think of it like a “how France works” starter pack.
What is the minimum level in french to acquire French nationality?
The minimum required level is B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). At this level, the candidate should be able to take part in a conversation and express themselves orally continuously.
It is not only necessary to have a level B2 in French, but to be familiar with French civilization and culture, commonly called Civilisation Française, in many french language schools and french language textbooks.This is to ensure that the candidate for citizenship has embraced French culture. You will need to demonstrate this primarily during the interview portion of your citizenship application.
How do I prove I have attained level B2 on my application for French nationality?
You can prove your level in French by having a diploma or a certificate issued by an organisation to which the label “français langue d’intégration” was issued. You can also consider one that is approved by the Ministry of Interior, Overseas, local authorities and immigration. The certificate should normally be issued within the last two years by this body to be valid.
Certificates to consider for your diploma as proof of your level in French include DELF/DALF (B2-C2), TCF IRN ( good for 2 years) and the TEF IRN ( also good fro 2 years).
In addition, if you attended a French University and completed a program in French, you are exempt from this rule. Furthermore, if you now hold a French diploma, for example, at the level of or above the brevet issued in France or abroad, then you are able to use this diploma as proof of your level in French.
Which recognized French test can I use to prove my proficiency in French?
The following four accredited certification bodies offer tests that can be used to prove your level in French:
– Le TCF – test de connaissance du français, delivered by the Centre international d’études pédagogiques
– Le TEF – test d’évaluation de français de la Chamber of commerce and industry of Paris
Note: people who, because of their age, poor health or chronic disability, can not produce a diploma or certificate are subject to a personal interview with an official of the prefecture.
How can I study so I can attain level B2 to apply for French nationality?
In general, you can consider self-study. There are a lot of resources to get you on your way on this website, as well as others. If you have never taken a French exam, it is a good idea to check out what level you are at the moment. On this site, you can find a self-assessment through your studying and for you to decide what you know and don’t know.
All the material on this site can be used to prepare for your French exam. Exams such as the DELF/DALF, TCF, TEF, TFI have very similar requirements and all follow the CEFR. There are many mock exams for Niveau B2 on this site to help you practice for your French language citizenship test.
In addition, if you are in France, you can consider attending language schools that are sponsored by the government. As a result, there is little (cheap) or no cost (free) to you. These include associations such as :
- Assofac
- GRETA
- Astrolabe formation
They usually offer “Cours de français pour étrangers” or “Cours de français langue étrangère” (In english it translate to “french course for foreigners”) which are usually paid for by the government in France. If you already have some training in french then you can consider “Préparation du DELF Remise à niveau et alphabétisation“.This course is also offered by the association above.
Furthermore, if you are registered with Pole Emploi (the French government employment agency), you should ask your counsellor about French-language training programs for foreigners or other training programs. If you are not signed up and you are now unemployed in France then it is recommended that you do so immediately.
Other means for cheap or reduced prices for your French classes include your local town hall, “Maire”. Many normally give French classes for foreigners at reduced rates or for free. If you live in Paris, consider checking “la Mairie de Paris”.
You can also consider doing a DELF/DALF preparation course online. It is offered by the French organisation CNED and is recognised by the French government. Online courses are usually cheaper than face to face classes.
