France · work · guide
France Resident Card: requirements and costs
This card is for family members of French citizens, including spouses and parents of French children, who want to live in France long term.
MIGRAGENT wrote this from 12 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/F2208
Who can apply
You can apply for this card if you are the mother or father of a French child who lives in France.[1]
You can also apply if you have been married to a French citizen for at least 3 years. If you are Tunisian, this marriage requirement is 1 year.[2]
If you got married abroad, you must register your marriage in the French civil registry before you apply.[3]
To get your first card, you must show you know French to a B1 level. You must also prove you are not a threat to public order.[4][5]
Documents you must provide
You must provide proof of your address. This document must be less than 6 months old.[6]
You must sign and submit a commitment to respect the principles of the French Republic.[7]
If you submit civil status documents in a foreign language, you must get them translated. A certified translator must translate them into French.[8]
You must show proof of payment when you collect your card.[9]
Costs and fees
The resident card costs 350 €. You must pay this amount using tax stamps.[10]
If you submit your application late, you must pay an extra fee. This regularisation visa fee is 180 €.[11]
When to apply
You must submit your application online. You must do this between 4 and 2 months before your current residence document expires.[12]
Checklist
- Proof of B1 French language level[4]
- Proof of address less than 6 months old[6]
- Signed commitment to respect the principles of the Republic[7]
- Certified French translation of foreign civil status documents[8]
- Tax stamps worth 350 €[10]
- Proof of payment when you collect your card[9]
Questions people ask
Who can apply for the France Resident Card as a parent?
You can apply if you are the mother or father of a French child who lives in France.[1]
How long must I be married to a French citizen to apply?
You must be married for at least 3 years. If you are Tunisian, you only need to be married for 1 year.[2]
What if my marriage took place outside of France?
You must transcribe your marriage into the French civil registry before you apply.[3]
What French language level is required?
You must prove you have a B1 level of French to get your first resident card.[4]
How much does the card cost?
The card costs 350 € paid in tax stamps.[10]
Is there a penalty for applying late?
Yes, you must pay an extra regularisation visa fee of 180 € if you apply late.[11]
When do I need to submit my application?
You must apply online between 4 and 2 months before your current residence document expires.[12]
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.