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Naturalisation
Verified 29 novembre 2021 - Legal and Administrative Information Directorate (Prime Minister)
Additional cases ? By marriage / By a French ascendant / By a French brother or sister
Are you a foreigner and you want to have French citizenship? Naturalisation by decree is a procedure for acquiring French nationality. This page shows you the requirements to be met and how to apply.
What applies to you ?
Depending on your personal situation, the steps to take may vary.
Veuillez patienter pendant le chargement de la page.
You live in France
You must meet all of the following requirements to obtain French nationality by naturalisation.
If not, check if you can become French through another procedure.
Age
You must be major.
You can submit your request from the age of 17. If your application is accepted, you will get naturalisation from the age of 18.
Naturalisation may be granted to a minor child who has remained a foreigner even though one of his parents has become French. However, the child must have resided in France with that parent for 5 years before the application for naturalisation was filed.
Place of residence
You reside in France at the time of signing the naturalisation decision (naturalisation decree).
This means you have to having in France the centre of your material interests (including professionals) and your family ties.
If you reside in France but your spouse and/or children reside in the foreigner, you may be refused French nationality.
One minimum duration of 5 years residence in France is required except in certain special situations.
No minimum duration residence in France is required if you are in one of the following situations:
- You have refugee status
- You come from a French and you speak french, because it's your mother tongue
- You come from a French-speaking country and have been educated 5 years or more in a French-language institution
- You served in the French army
- You joined the French army or an allied army in time of war
- You have rendered exceptional services to France
A minimum duration of 2 years of residence in France is required if you are:
- You have graduated from a French higher education institution after 2 years of study
- You can make (or have made) important services to France based on your abilities and talents
- You have completed an exceptional integration journey (activities or actions carried out in the civic, scientific, economic, cultural or sports fields...)
Regular stay
You must have valid residence permit at the time of filing your application, unless you are a national of European Economic Area countries or if you are Swiss.
You must not have been subjected to a deportation order or prohibition still in effect.
Assimilation to the French community
You must prove your assimilation into the French community, in particular by:
- By adhering to the fundamental principles and values of the Republic
- Through a sufficient knowledge of French history, culture and business
The citizen's booklet indicates the required knowledge. You download this booklet or consult it at the reception of prefectures.
Knowledge of the French language
You must show a sufficient knowledge of the French language.
Business Insert
Professional integration is an essential condition for assimilation and integration in France.
Morality and absence of criminal convictions
You have to be good people and morals.
This means that you must not have been the author of acts contrary to public order.
You must not be in one of the following situations:
- To have been sentenced in France to a sentence of at least 6 months without a reprieve (except in case of rehabilitation or erasure of the sentence of bulletin n°2 of your criminal record)
- To have been convicted of a crime or an offence constituting an infringement of the fundamental interests of the Nation (except in the case of rehabilitation or deletion of the conviction of bulletin 2 of your criminal record)
- Have been convicted of an act of terrorism (except in case of rehabilitation or erasure of the conviction of Bulletin 2 of your criminal record)
Summary of Conditions
One video explains the requirements to meet:
- Naturalisation for whom?
You are concerned if you cannot have French citizenship in another way.
For example, if you are married to a Frenchwoman or a Frenchwoman, you may become French by declaration, subject to conditions.
If you are a father, mother, grandparent, brother or sister of a Frenchman, you may also make a declaration of French nationality, subject to
- I have to live in France with my family to apply?
Yes, for at least five years. Except in certain situations, for example if you are a refugee.
- What residence permit to have?
You must have a valid residence permit. If you are European, you do not need it.
- Should I speak French?
You must be able to speak and write in French. With an oral and written B1 level of the European Framework of Reference for Languages (CERL).
- I have to prove my integration in France?
You must know the big dates in the history of France, and know the rights and duties of the citizen *. The values of the Republic must also be respected: freedom, equality, fraternity.
- Will my behaviour and criminal record be checked?
Yes. You must not have committed acts contrary to public order.
The procedure varies according to your department.
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
03
You can send your French naturalisation application Internet if you are not currently in the french army.
Online application for French naturalisation
Ministry of the Interior
Cerfa n°12753*03
Instead, you can use a paper form to apply :
Application to acquire French nationality by naturalisation or reintegration
Pour vous aider à remplir le formulaire :
You can also apply to the naturalisation platform from your home.
Click on the interactive map to find out if you need to submit your request at the counter or send your request by mail to RAR.
Who shall I contact
09 (Ariège)
You can send your French naturalisation application Internet if you are not currently in the french army.
Online application for French naturalisation
Ministry of the Interior
Cerfa n°12753*03
Instead, you can use a paper form to apply :
Application to acquire French nationality by naturalisation or reintegration
Pour vous aider à remplir le formulaire :
You can also apply to the naturalisation platform from your home.
Click on the interactive map to find out if you need to submit your request at the counter or send your request by mail to RAR.
Who shall I contact
12 (Aveyron)
You can send your French naturalisation application Internet if you are not currently in the french army.
Online application for French naturalisation
Ministry of the Interior
Cerfa n°12753*03
Instead, you can use a paper form to apply :
Application to acquire French nationality by naturalisation or reintegration
Pour vous aider à remplir le formulaire :
You can also apply to the naturalisation platform from your home.
Click on the interactive map to find out if you need to submit your request at the counter or send your request by mail to RAR.
Who shall I contact
15 (Cantal)
You can send your French naturalisation application Internet if you are not currently in the french army.
Online application for French naturalisation
Ministry of the Interior
Cerfa n°12753*03
Instead, you can use a paper form to apply :
Application to acquire French nationality by naturalisation or reintegration
Pour vous aider à remplir le formulaire :
You can also apply to the naturalisation platform from your home.
Click on the interactive map to find out if you need to submit your request at the counter or send your request by mail to RAR.
Who shall I contact
22 (Côtes-d'Armour)
You can send your French naturalisation application Internet if you are not currently in the french army.
Online application for French naturalisation
Ministry of the Interior
Cerfa n°12753*03
Instead, you can use a paper form to apply :
Application to acquire French nationality by naturalisation or reintegration
Pour vous aider à remplir le formulaire :
You can also apply to the naturalisation platform from your home.
Click on the interactive map to find out if you need to submit your request at the counter or send your request by mail to RAR.
Who shall I contact
29 (Finistère)
You can send your French naturalisation application Internet if you are not currently in the french army.
Online application for French naturalisation
Ministry of the Interior
Cerfa n°12753*03
Instead, you can use a paper form to apply :
Application to acquire French nationality by naturalisation or reintegration
Pour vous aider à remplir le formulaire :
You can also apply to the naturalisation platform from your home.
Click on the interactive map to find out if you need to submit your request at the counter or send your request by mail to RAR.
Who shall I contact
31 (Haute-Garonne)
You can send your French naturalisation application Internet if you are not currently in the french army.
Online application for French naturalisation
Ministry of the Interior
Cerfa n°12753*03
Instead, you can use a paper form to apply :
Application to acquire French nationality by naturalisation or reintegration
Pour vous aider à remplir le formulaire :
You can also apply to the naturalisation platform from your home.
Click on the interactive map to find out if you need to submit your request at the counter or send your request by mail to RAR.
Who shall I contact
32 (Gers)
You can send your French naturalisation application Internet if you are not currently in the french army.
Online application for French naturalisation
Ministry of the Interior
Cerfa n°12753*03
Instead, you can use a paper form to apply :
Application to acquire French nationality by naturalisation or reintegration
Pour vous aider à remplir le formulaire :
You can also apply to the naturalisation platform from your home.
Click on the interactive map to find out if you need to submit your request at the counter or send your request by mail to RAR.
Who shall I contact
35 (Ille-et-Vilaine)
You can send your French naturalisation application Internet if you are not currently in the french army.
Online application for French naturalisation
Ministry of the Interior
Cerfa n°12753*03
Instead, you can use a paper form to apply :
Application to acquire French nationality by naturalisation or reintegration
Pour vous aider à remplir le formulaire :
You can also apply to the naturalisation platform from your home.
Click on the interactive map to find out if you need to submit your request at the counter or send your request by mail to RAR.
Who shall I contact
43 (Haute-Loire)
You can send your French naturalisation application Internet if you are not currently in the french army.
Online application for French naturalisation
Ministry of the Interior
Cerfa n°12753*03
Instead, you can use a paper form to apply :
Application to acquire French nationality by naturalisation or reintegration
Pour vous aider à remplir le formulaire :
You can also apply to the naturalisation platform from your home.
Click on the interactive map to find out if you need to submit your request at the counter or send your request by mail to RAR.
Who shall I contact
44 (Loire-Atlantique)
You can send your French naturalisation application Internet if you are not currently in the french army.
Online application for French naturalisation
Ministry of the Interior
Cerfa n°12753*03
Instead, you can use a paper form to apply :
Application to acquire French nationality by naturalisation or reintegration
Pour vous aider à remplir le formulaire :
You can also apply to the naturalisation platform from your home.
Click on the interactive map to find out if you need to submit your request at the counter or send your request by mail to RAR.
Who shall I contact
46 (Lot)
You can send your French naturalisation application Internet if you are not currently in the french army.
Online application for French naturalisation
Ministry of the Interior
Cerfa n°12753*03
Instead, you can use a paper form to apply :
Application to acquire French nationality by naturalisation or reintegration
Pour vous aider à remplir le formulaire :
You can also apply to the naturalisation platform from your home.
Click on the interactive map to find out if you need to submit your request at the counter or send your request by mail to RAR.
Who shall I contact
49 (Maine-et-Loire)
You can send your French naturalisation application Internet if you are not currently in the french army.
Online application for French naturalisation
Ministry of the Interior
Cerfa n°12753*03
Instead, you can use a paper form to apply :
Application to acquire French nationality by naturalisation or reintegration
Pour vous aider à remplir le formulaire :
You can also apply to the naturalisation platform from your home.
Click on the interactive map to find out if you need to submit your request at the counter or send your request by mail to RAR.
Who shall I contact
53 (Mayenne)
You can send your French naturalisation application Internet if you are not currently in the french army.
Online application for French naturalisation
Ministry of the Interior
Cerfa n°12753*03
Instead, you can use a paper form to apply :
Application to acquire French nationality by naturalisation or reintegration
Pour vous aider à remplir le formulaire :
You can also apply to the naturalisation platform from your home.
Click on the interactive map to find out if you need to submit your request at the counter or send your request by mail to RAR.
Who shall I contact
56 (Morbihan)
You can send your French naturalisation application Internet if you are not currently in the french army.
Online application for French naturalisation
Ministry of the Interior
Cerfa n°12753*03
Instead, you can use a paper form to apply :
Application to acquire French nationality by naturalisation or reintegration
Pour vous aider à remplir le formulaire :
You can also apply to the naturalisation platform from your home.
Click on the interactive map to find out if you need to submit your request at the counter or send your request by mail to RAR.
Who shall I contact
63 (Puy-de-Dôme)
You can send your French naturalisation application Internet if you are not currently in the french army.
Online application for French naturalisation
Ministry of the Interior
Cerfa n°12753*03
Instead, you can use a paper form to apply :
Application to acquire French nationality by naturalisation or reintegration
Pour vous aider à remplir le formulaire :
You can also apply to the naturalisation platform from your home.
Click on the interactive map to find out if you need to submit your request at the counter or send your request by mail to RAR.
Who shall I contact
65 (Hautes-Pyrénées)
You can send your French naturalisation application Internet if you are not currently in the french army.
Online application for French naturalisation
Ministry of the Interior
Cerfa n°12753*03
Instead, you can use a paper form to apply :
Application to acquire French nationality by naturalisation or reintegration
Pour vous aider à remplir le formulaire :
You can also apply to the naturalisation platform from your home.
Click on the interactive map to find out if you need to submit your request at the counter or send your request by mail to RAR.
Who shall I contact
72 (Sarthe)
You can send your French naturalisation application Internet if you are not currently in the french army.
Online application for French naturalisation
Ministry of the Interior
Cerfa n°12753*03
Instead, you can use a paper form to apply :
Application to acquire French nationality by naturalisation or reintegration
Pour vous aider à remplir le formulaire :
You can also apply to the naturalisation platform from your home.
Click on the interactive map to find out if you need to submit your request at the counter or send your request by mail to RAR.
Who shall I contact
81 Tarn
You can send your French naturalisation application Internet if you are not currently in the french army.
Online application for French naturalisation
Ministry of the Interior
Cerfa n°12753*03
Instead, you can use a paper form to apply :
Application to acquire French nationality by naturalisation or reintegration
Pour vous aider à remplir le formulaire :
You can also apply to the naturalisation platform from your home.
Click on the interactive map to find out if you need to submit your request at the counter or send your request by mail to RAR.
Who shall I contact
82 (Tarn-et-Garonne)
You can send your French naturalisation application Internet if you are not currently in the french army.
Online application for French naturalisation
Ministry of the Interior
Cerfa n°12753*03
Instead, you can use a paper form to apply :
Application to acquire French nationality by naturalisation or reintegration
Pour vous aider à remplir le formulaire :
You can also apply to the naturalisation platform from your home.
Click on the interactive map to find out if you need to submit your request at the counter or send your request by mail to RAR.
Who shall I contact
85 (Vendée)
You can send your French naturalisation application Internet if you are not currently in the french army.
Online application for French naturalisation
Ministry of the Interior
Cerfa n°12753*03
Instead, you can use a paper form to apply :
Application to acquire French nationality by naturalisation or reintegration
Pour vous aider à remplir le formulaire :
You can also apply to the naturalisation platform from your home.
Click on the interactive map to find out if you need to submit your request at the counter or send your request by mail to RAR.
Who shall I contact
92 (Hauts-de-Seine)
You can send your French naturalisation application Internet if you are not currently in the french army.
Online application for French naturalisation
Ministry of the Interior
Cerfa n°12753*03
Instead, you can use a paper form to apply :
Application to acquire French nationality by naturalisation or reintegration
Pour vous aider à remplir le formulaire :
You can also apply to the naturalisation platform from your home.
Click on the interactive map to find out if you need to submit your request at the counter or send your request by mail to RAR.
Who shall I contact
94 (Val-de-Marne)
You can send your French naturalisation application Internet if you are not currently in the french army.
Online application for French naturalisation
Ministry of the Interior
Cerfa n°12753*03
Instead, you can use a paper form to apply :
Application to acquire French nationality by naturalisation or reintegration
Pour vous aider à remplir le formulaire :
You can also apply to the naturalisation platform from your home.
Click on the interactive map to find out if you need to submit your request at the counter or send your request by mail to RAR.
Who shall I contact
Other
You should contact the naturalisation platform that depends on where you live.
Depending on the naturalisation platforms, the file must be deposited at the counter or sent by mail to RAR.
Click on the interactive map of naturalisation platforms to see what steps you should take.
Who shall I contact
File
One simulator lists custom documents to be provided according to your personal and family situation.
Application for naturalisation: what documents to provide?
Directorate of Legal and Administrative Information (Dila) - Prime Minister
You must build a folder with the following documents:
- Form cerfa 12753 in 2 copies, completed, dated and signed
- If you send your file by mail, stamped envelope to your address + letter "followed" 500 g blank
- 2 identity photos size 35 x 45 mm, bare head. Enter your name, first name and date of birth on the back
- Official identity document
- Fiscal stamp of €55
- Duplex copy of your valid residence permit
- Evidence of your civil status and nationality
- Justification of your home and your stay
- Justifications for your resources and taxes
- Diploma or certificate justifying your level of knowledge of the French language
- Justifications if you live in a couple
- Entitlements if you have already been married (divorce or widow)
- Supporting children
- If you are a veteran or legionnaire, state of services, decorations and quotations obtained
- If you have been living in France for less than 10 years, original extract of foreigners criminal record or equivalent document. It must be issued by a competent authority of the country or countries in which you have lived, or failing that, of the country of your nationality. This document is not required if you are a political refugee, a stateless person or if you entered France before you turned 18.
See information notice concerning the documents to be provided. The instructions are attached to form cerfa n°12753.
However, depending on your situation, additional documents may be requested.
If you wish, you can complete your request with information that you feel is of particular interest. Enter this information on free paper.
For example, your participation in associative life in France.
If 2 members of a couple They want to apply for naturalisation, they have to build two files.
One reclaimed is issued when you have provided all the requested documents.
Rules for Documents
Documents must be provided original unless otherwise indicated.
A civil registration document (birth and marriage documents) must be produced full copy.
An act of civil status French must be issued less than 3 months.
A document in a foreign language must be accompanied by translation by certified translator or authorised, except for a plurilingual extract of a birth certificate in which one of the languages is French.
However, multilingual form can be attached to avoid having to translate some documents issued by a European Union . View e-justice site for more information.
One foreigner public act must be, if necessary, legalised or apostilled.
Contact your home country's embassy or consulate to meet this requirement.
You can also consult the summary of rules by country [application/pdf - 528.0 KB] to check which rule applies to your document.
Who shall I contact
French Office for the Protection of Refugees and Stateless Persons (Ofpra)
On site
French Office for the Protection of Refugees and Stateless Persons (Ofpra)
201 Carnot Street
94136 Fontenay sous Bois Cedex
Open to the public from 9am to 3pm
Phone
01 58 68 10 10
Please note : when applying for naturalisation, you can request framing of your name and/or first name(s) and the first name of your children. You can also request a French first name when you or your children have no first name.
One video indicates the documents to be provided in order to apply for French naturalisation.
Which form should be completed?
You must fill in the form cerfa n°12753 in 2 copies. Don't forget to date and sign it. The form is available on Service-Public.fr.
What documents should I provide in all cases?
You must provide:
・ 2 identity photos. Enter your name, first name and date of birth on the back
・ 1 official identity document. For example your residence permit, or if you are European, your identity card
・ 1 tax stamp of 55 €
・ 1 double-sided copy of your valid residence permit
What are the other documents?
You must provide supporting documentation for:
・ your marital status
・ your nationality
・ home
・ your resources
You must also provide proof if you live or have lived in a couple, and if you have minor children.
Do I have to prove my level in French?
Yes, the required level of knowledge in French is the oral and written level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CERL).
Are there any special situations?
Yes, for example, if you have been living in France for less than 10 years, you must provide an original foreigner criminal record extract or equivalent document, unless you are a refugee.
You will be contacted if additional documents are required.
Do I have to translate the documents?
Yes, you must include a French translation of any document written in another language.
The translation must be done by a certified translator. It is the translator who tells you his deadlines and prices.
You can consult the list of authorised translators on the website of the Court of Cassation (
https://www.courdecassation.fr/informations_services_6/experts_judiciaires_8700.html#experts
In addition, some foreigner documents must be legalised or stamped. This formality is used to authenticate the document. Ask at the embassy or consulate in your country of origin.
Can I have a summary of the parts to be provided?
Yes, a simulator allows you to have a customised list of documents to provide.
The simulator is available on Service-Public.fr.
Attention: your application file cannot be reviewed if documents are missing
How do I send my file?
You should contact the French nationality access platform (https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/N111), which depends on where you live.
Depending on the platform, the file must be submitted or sent by registered mail with acknowledgement.
An interactive map is available on Service-Public.fr to have the coordinates of your platform.
If your situation changes after the receipt is issued, you must inform the service that received your request.
For example, if your work or family situation has changed, or if you have changed your address.
You must complete declaration of change of situation attached to form cerfa no. 12753.
Application to acquire French nationality by naturalisation or reintegration
Cerfa n° 12753*03 - Ministry of the Interior
To be completed if you request French naturalisation or if you request to be reinstated in French nationality.
A receipt will be issued when you have provided the requested document(s).
One investigation is done on your civic behaviour (manifested for example by paying taxes).
The investigation may be supplemented by consultation Consular and social agencies.
The administration also checks your possible judicial past in France and the foreigner.
You are summoned to a maintenance to check your assimilation into the french community.
To prepare for this interview, you can download the citizen's booklet .
At the end of the interview, you must sign the charter of rights and duties of the french citizen .
The administration 18 months maximum to answer you from the receipt issue.
This period shall be reduced to 12 months when you prove that you have been habitually resident in France for at least 10 years on the date of receipt.
You receive a mail informing you of your registration in the naturalisation decree, after its publication in the Official Journal (OJ).
This naturalisation decree takes effect on the date of signature.
One extract from the naturalisation decree and copy of documents resulting from your naturalisation you are given at ceremony organised by the prefecture.
If you have unmarried minor children, they become french if they usually reside with you and their name is mentioned in the naturalisation order.
The minority of the child shall be assessed on the date of signature of the decree.
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
Error amplifying naturalisation decree
If you see an error on amplifying of the naturalisation decree, inform the ministry of the interior by mail:
Who shall I contact
Ministry of the Interior - Naturalisation
By mail
Ministry of the Interior
Directorate General of foreigners in France
Directorate of reception, foreigner support and nationality
Sub-Directorate for Access to French Nationality
12 rue Francis-le-Carval
44404 REZÉ CEDEX
Error on Civil Status
If you notice an error on a civil registration document (birth and/or marriage), you must send a letter to the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs.
Who shall I contact
Central Registry Office
Foreigner (birth, marriage or death) of a Frenchman
Only by mail to:
Central Registry Office
11 White House Street
44941 Nantes Cedex 09
The service is not open to the public.
You can apply for a declaration of civil status via a online service .
For additional information, you can:
- View Site diplomacy.govt.fr
- Call+33 1 41 86 42 47 Monday to Friday from 9am to 12pm and from 1pm to 4pm
Free access to a video-interpretation or instant voice transcription service for the deaf or hard of hearing - Email courrier.scec@diplomatie.gouv.fr
The naturalisation decree may be withdrawn after its publication, upon the assent of the Council of State, in the following 2 cases :
- It is found that the legal conditions were not mets In this case, the decree may be withdrawn within 2 years of its publication in the OJ.
- It is found that the order was obtained by lying or fraud. In this case, the decree may be withdrawn within 2 years of their discovery by the minister responsible for naturalisations.
The administration can make a decision unfavourable in 2 cases following:
- Your request is inadmissible. This means that the conditions laid down by law are not fulfilled
- VYour request is inappropriate. This means that the acquisition of French nationality is not or not yet possible.
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
Unfavourable decision
Your request is declared irrelevant if the conditions laid down by law are not fulfilled.
The decision of inadmissibility must be motivated.
Prefect notify decision at convening in prefectureor by registered mail AR.
If the reasons for inadmissibility disappear, you can apply again.
You 2 months following notification decision of inadmissibility to make an administrative appeal to the minister responsible for naturalisations.
The administrative appeal must be made before making a litigation.
Who shall I contact
Ministry of the Interior - Naturalisation
By mail
Ministry of the Interior
Directorate General of foreigners in France
Directorate of reception, foreigner support and nationality
Sub-Directorate for Access to French Nationality
12 rue Francis-le-Carval
44404 REZÉ CEDEX
If you do not have an answer from the Minister responsible for naturalisations within 4 months, this means that your appeal is refused.
You can then do a litigation before the administrative court of Nantes.
You have a deadline 2 months from the date of refusal.
.
Unfavourable decision
Even if the conditions set by law are met, your application may be denied or postponed if your naturalisation does not seem appropriate.
If your request is postponed, a time limit is imposed, for example, to allow you to improve your professional integration.
Once this time has passed, you can reapply naturalisation.
You 2 months following notification the decision to refuse or defer to make a administrative appeal to the minister responsible for naturalisations.
The administrative appeal must be made before making a litigation.
Who shall I contact
Ministry of the Interior - Naturalisation
By mail
Ministry of the Interior
Directorate General of foreigners in France
Directorate of reception, foreigner support and nationality
Sub-Directorate for Access to French Nationality
12 rue Francis-le-Carval
44404 REZÉ CEDEX
If you have no response the Minister responsible for naturalisations within 4 months that means your appeal is denied.
You can then do a litigation before the administrative court of Nantes.
You have a deadline 2 months from the date of refusal.
You live in foreigner
You must meet all of the following requirements to acquire French nationality by naturalisation. If not, check if you can become French through another procedure.
Age
You must be major.
You can submit your request from the age of 17. If your application is accepted, you will get naturalisation from the age of 18.
Naturalisation may be granted to a minor child who has remained a foreigner even though one of his parents has become French. However, the child must have resided in France with that parent during the 5 years preceding the application for naturalisation.
Place of residence
You may be naturalised by decree provided you meet one of the following conditions:
- You carry out a public or private professional activity on behalf of the French State or an organisation whose activity is of particular interest for the French economy or culture
- You stay in Monaco
- You do your national service or are engaged in regular training of the French army
- You are a national volunteer
If you meet any of these conditions, your spouse(s) and minor children living with you will also meet them.
Regular stay
You must have valid residence permit at the time of filing your application, unless you are a national of European Economic Area countries or if you are Swiss.
You must not have been subjected to a deportation order or prohibition still in effect.
Assimilation to the French community
You must prove your assimilation into the French community, in particular by:
- By adhering to the fundamental principles and values of the Republic
- Through a sufficient knowledge of French history, culture and business
The citizen's booklet indicates the required knowledge. You download this booklet or consult it at the reception of prefectures.
Knowledge of the French language
You must show a sufficient knowledge of the French language.
Business Insert
Integration into the workplace is an essential condition for assimilation and integration in France.
Morality and absence of criminal convictions
You have to be good people and morals.
This means that you must not have been the author of acts contrary to public order.
You must not be in one of the following situations:
- To have been sentenced in France to a sentence of at least 6 months without a reprieve (except in case of rehabilitation or erasure of the sentence of bulletin n°2 of your criminal record)
- To have been convicted of a crime or an offence constituting an infringement of the fundamental interests of the Nation (except in the case of rehabilitation or deletion of the conviction of bulletin 2 of your criminal record)
- Have been convicted of an act of terrorism (except in case of rehabilitation or erasure of the conviction of Bulletin 2 of your criminal record)
Summary of Conditions
One video explains the requirements to meet:
- Naturalisation for whom?
You are concerned if you cannot have French citizenship in another way.
For example, if you are married to a Frenchwoman or a Frenchwoman, you may become French by declaration, subject to conditions.
If you are a father, mother, grandparent, brother or sister of a Frenchman, you may also make a declaration of French nationality, subject to
- I have to live in France with my family to apply?
Yes, for at least five years. Except in certain situations, for example if you are a refugee.
- What residence permit to have?
You must have a valid residence permit. If you are European, you do not need it.
- Should I speak French?
You must be able to speak and write in French. With an oral and written B1 level of the European Framework of Reference for Languages (CERL).
- I have to prove my integration in France?
You must know the big dates in the history of France, and know the rights and duties of the citizen *. The values of the Republic must also be respected: freedom, equality, fraternity.
- Will my behaviour and criminal record be checked?
Yes. You must not have committed acts contrary to public order.
You must apply for naturalisation at a French consulate.
Who shall I contact
What documents should be provided?
One simulator lists custom documents to be provided according to your personal and family situation.
Application for naturalisation: what documents to provide?
Directorate of Legal and Administrative Information (Dila) - Prime Minister
You must build a folder with the following documents:
- Form cerfa 12753 in 2 copies, completed, dated and signed
- If you send your file by mail, stamped envelope to your address + letter "followed" 500 g blank
- 2 identity photos size 35 x 45 mm, bare head. Enter your name, first name and date of birth on the back
- Official identity document
- Fiscal stamp of €55
- Duplex copy of your valid residence permit
- Evidence of your civil status and nationality
- Justification of your home and your stay
- Justifications for your resources and taxes
- Diploma or certificate justifying your level of knowledge of the French language
- Justifications if you live in a couple
- Entitlements if you have already been married (divorce or widow)
- Supporting children
- If you are a veteran or legionnaire, state of services, decorations and quotations obtained
- If you have been living in France for less than 10 years, original extract of foreigners criminal record or equivalent document. It must be issued by a competent authority of the country or countries in which you have lived, or failing that, of the country of your nationality. This document is not required if you are a political refugee, a stateless person or if you entered France before you turned 18.
See information notice concerning the documents to be provided. The instructions are attached to form cerfa n°12753.
However, depending on your situation, additional documents may be requested.
If you wish, you can complete your request with information that you think is of particular interest. Enter this information on free paper.
For example, your participation in associative life in France.
If 2 members of a couple They want to apply for naturalisation, they have to build two files.
One reclaimed is issued when you have produced all the requested documents.
Rules for Documents
Documents must be provided original unless otherwise indicated.
A civil registration document (birth and marriage documents) must be produced full copy.
An act of civil status French must be issued less than 3 months.
A document in a foreign language must be accompanied by translation by certified translator or authorised, except for a plurilingual extract of a birth certificate in which one of the languages is French.
However, multilingual form can be attached to avoid having to translate some documents issued by a European Union . View e-justice site for more information.
One foreigner public act must be, if necessary, legalised or apostilled.
Contact your home country's embassy or consulate to meet this requirement.
You can also consult the summary of rules by country [application/pdf - 528.0 KB] to check which rule applies to your document.
Who shall I contact
French Office for the Protection of Refugees and Stateless Persons (Ofpra)
On site
French Office for the Protection of Refugees and Stateless Persons (Ofpra)
201 Carnot Street
94136 Fontenay sous Bois Cedex
Open to the public from 9am to 3pm
Phone
01 58 68 10 10
Please note : when applying for naturalisation, you can request framing of your name and/or first name(s) and the first name of your children. You can also request a French first name when you or your children have no first name.
One video indicates the documents to be provided in order to apply for French naturalisation.
Which form should be completed?
You must fill in the form cerfa n°12753 in 2 copies. Don't forget to date and sign it. The form is available on Service-Public.fr.
What documents should I provide in all cases?
You must provide:
・ 2 identity photos. Enter your name, first name and date of birth on the back
・ 1 official identity document. For example your residence permit, or if you are European, your identity card
・ 1 tax stamp of 55 €
・ 1 double-sided copy of your valid residence permit
What are the other documents?
You must provide supporting documentation for:
・ your marital status
・ your nationality
・ home
・ your resources
You must also provide proof if you live or have lived in a couple, and if you have minor children.
Do I have to prove my level in French?
Yes, the required level of knowledge in French is the oral and written level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CERL).
Are there any special situations?
Yes, for example, if you have been living in France for less than 10 years, you must provide an original foreigner criminal record extract or equivalent document, unless you are a refugee.
You will be contacted if additional documents are required.
Do I have to translate the documents?
Yes, you must include a French translation of any document written in another language.
The translation must be done by a certified translator. It is the translator who tells you his deadlines and prices.
You can consult the list of authorised translators on the website of the Court of Cassation (
https://www.courdecassation.fr/informations_services_6/experts_judiciaires_8700.html#experts
In addition, some foreigner documents must be legalised or stamped. This formality is used to authenticate the document. Ask at the embassy or consulate in your country of origin.
Can I have a summary of the parts to be provided?
Yes, a simulator allows you to have a customised list of documents to provide.
The simulator is available on Service-Public.fr.
Attention: your application file cannot be reviewed if documents are missing
How do I send my file?
You should contact the French nationality access platform (https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/N111), which depends on where you live.
Depending on the platform, the file must be submitted or sent by registered mail with acknowledgement.
An interactive map is available on Service-Public.fr to have the coordinates of your platform.
Application for naturalisation costs €55.
Payment is made at the consulate.
Who shall I contact
If your situation changes after the receipt is issued, you must inform the service that received your request.
For example, if your work or family situation has changed, or if you have changed your address.
You must complete declaration of change of situation attached to form cerfa no. 12753.
Application to acquire French nationality by naturalisation or reintegration
Cerfa n° 12753*03 - Ministry of the Interior
To be completed if you request French naturalisation or if you request to be reinstated in French nationality.
A receipt will be issued when you have provided the requested document(s).
One investigation is done on your civic behaviour (manifested for example by paying taxes).
The investigation may be supplemented by consultation social agencies or consulates in France.
The administration also checks your possible judicial past in France and the foreigner.
You are summoned to a maintenance to check your assimilation into the french community.
To prepare for this interview, you can download the citizen's booklet .
At the end of the interview, you must sign the charter of rights and duties of the french citizen .
The administration 18 months maximum to answer you from the receipt issue.
This period shall be reduced to 12 months when you prove that you have been habitually resident in France for at least 10 years on the date of receipt.
You receive a mail informing you of your registration in the naturalisation decree, after its publication in the Official Journal (OJ).
This naturalisation decree takes effect on the date of signature.
One extract from the naturalisation decree and copy of documents resulting from your naturalisation you are given at ceremony organised by the competent French consular authority.
If you have unmarried minor children, they become French if they usually reside with you and their name is mentioned in the order.
The minority of the child is assessed on the date of signing the order.
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
Error amplifying naturalisation decree
If you see an error on amplifying of the naturalisation decree, inform the ministry of the interior by mail:
Who shall I contact
Ministry of the Interior - Naturalisation
By mail
Ministry of the Interior
Directorate General of foreigners in France
Directorate of reception, foreigner support and nationality
Sub-Directorate for Access to French Nationality
12 rue Francis-le-Carval
44404 REZÉ CEDEX
Error on Civil Status
If you notice an error on a civil registration document (birth and/or marriage), you must send a letter to the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs.
Who shall I contact
Central Registry Office
Foreigner (birth, marriage or death) of a Frenchman
Only by mail to:
Central Registry Office
11 White House Street
44941 Nantes Cedex 09
The service is not open to the public.
You can apply for a declaration of civil status via a online service .
For additional information, you can:
- View Site diplomacy.govt.fr
- Call+33 1 41 86 42 47 Monday to Friday from 9am to 12pm and from 1pm to 4pm
Free access to a video-interpretation or instant voice transcription service for the deaf or hard of hearing - Email courrier.scec@diplomatie.gouv.fr
The naturalisation decree can be withdrawn after its publication, upon the assent of the Council of State, in the following 2 cases :
- It is found that the legal conditions were not mets In this case, the decree may be withdrawn within 2 years of its publication in the OJ.
- It is found that the order was obtained by lying or fraud. In this case, the decree may be withdrawn within 2 years of their discovery by the minister responsible for naturalisations.
The administration can make a decision unfavourable in 2 cases following:
- Your request is inadmissible. This means that the conditions laid down by law are not fulfilled
- VYour request is inappropriate. This means that the acquisition of French nationality is not or not yet possible.
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
Unfavourable decision
Your request is declared irrelevant if the conditions laid down by law are not fulfilled.
The decision of inadmissibility must be motivated.
Prefect notify decision at convening in prefectureor by registered mail AR.
If the reasons for inadmissibility disappear, you can apply again.
You 2 months following notification decision of inadmissibility to make an administrative appeal to the minister responsible for naturalisations.
The administrative appeal must be made before making a litigation.
Who shall I contact
Ministry of the Interior - Naturalisation
By mail
Ministry of the Interior
Directorate General of foreigners in France
Directorate of reception, foreigner support and nationality
Sub-Directorate for Access to French Nationality
12 rue Francis-le-Carval
44404 REZÉ CEDEX
If you do not have an answer from the Minister responsible for naturalisations within 4 months, this means that your appeal is refused.
You can then do a litigation before the administrative court of Nantes.
You have a deadline 2 months from the date of refusal.
.
Unfavourable decision
Even if the conditions set by law are met, your application may be denied or postponed if your naturalisation does not seem appropriate.
If your request is postponed, a time limit is imposed, for example, to allow you to improve your professional integration.
Once this time has passed, you can reapply naturalisation.
You 2 months following notification the decision to refuse or defer to make a administrative appeal to the minister responsible for naturalisations.
The administrative appeal must be made before making a litigation.
Who shall I contact
Ministry of the Interior - Naturalisation
By mail
Ministry of the Interior
Directorate General of foreigners in France
Directorate of reception, foreigner support and nationality
Sub-Directorate for Access to French Nationality
12 rue Francis-le-Carval
44404 REZÉ CEDEX
If you have no response the Minister responsible for naturalisations within 4 months that means your appeal is denied.
You can then do a litigation before the administrative court of Nantes.
You have a deadline 2 months from the date of refusal.