France · work · guide
French citizenship by decree: requirements and costs
This guide explains how to apply for French citizenship by decree if you live in France.
MIGRAGENT wrote this from 18 requirements on the official page, each checked against the government's own wording. Updated 2026-10-02. Source: https://www.service-public.gouv.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F2213
Who can apply
You must be at least 18 years old to apply for French naturalization.[1]
You must show that you have lived in France for at least 5 years, unless you meet specific exceptions.[2]
You must live in France when your naturalization decree is signed.[3]
You must hold a valid residence permit when you submit your application, unless you are a citizen of Switzerland or a European country.[4]
You must have stable and sufficient income to support yourself and your household.[5]
You must be of good character and morals.[6]
What you need to show
You must prove that you have a sufficient knowledge of the French language.[7]
You must also prove your assimilation into the French community.[8]
During your interview, you must sign the charter of rights and duties of French citizens.[9]
Documents you must prepare
You must prepare the original versions of your documents, even if you submit your application online.[10]
You must bring the original documents listed on your official invitation to your interview.[11]
If any of your documents are in another language, you must provide a French translation for each one.[12]
You must provide the original copy of these translations.[13]
Costs and fees
You must pay a tax of 255 € to complete this application.[14]
If you are applying in French Guiana, the tax is 127.50 €.[15]
What to do after you apply
If your situation changes after you receive your application receipt, you must inform the administration through your online personal space.[16]
If you receive an unfavorable decision, you must submit your administrative appeal within 2 months from the date you were notified.[17]
If you become a French citizen when you are between 16 and 25 years old, you must register for national service within one month of getting your citizenship.[18]
Checklist
- Hold a valid residence permit when applying, unless you are European or Swiss[4]
- Provide original translations for any documents not written in French[13]
- Pay the application tax of 255 € or 127.50 €[14]
- Sign the charter of rights and duties at the end of your interview[9]
Questions people ask
How old do I need to be to apply for French naturalization?
You must be at least 18 years old to be naturalized as a French citizen.[1]
How long do I need to live in France before applying?
You must show that you have lived in France for at least 5 years, though some exceptions exist.[2]
How much does it cost to apply for French citizenship?
The application tax is 255 €. If you are applying in French Guiana, the tax is 127.50 €.[14][15]
Do I need to speak French to get citizenship?
Yes. You must prove that you have a sufficient knowledge of the French language.[7]
What happens if my application is rejected?
You must file an administrative appeal within 2 months of receiving the unfavorable decision.[17]
What should I do if my personal situation changes after applying?
You must inform the administration through your online account if your situation changes after you get your receipt.[16]
This explains what one official page says. It is not legal advice, and the page itself is the authority. Rules change; the wire reports it when they do.