France · Citizenship
France Citizenship by Naturalization
Naturalization by decree is the main route to French citizenship for founders. It normally needs five years of residence, can open after two in specific cases, and since 2026 requires B2 French and a civic exam.
- Startup route
- Talent card – project leader (incl. French Tech Visa)
- Minimum capital
- EUR 30,000 for the company-creation route
- Permanent residence
- 5 years (EU long-term resident card)
- Citizenship
- 5 years; 2 years in specific cases
Naturalization by decree (naturalisation par décret)
French citizenship by naturalization is granted by decree. The standard minimum is five years of residence in France. The period falls to two years for graduates of a French higher education institution after two years of study, for people able to render important services to France through their abilities, and for those with an exceptional integration path in civic, scientific, economic, cultural or sporting fields. Applicants must show stable resources, pass the civic exam and a prefecture interview, and prove French at level B2. The fee is EUR 255, and France allows multiple nationality.
- Residence
- 5 years; 2 years in specific cases
- Language
- French at level B2 (since 1 January 2026)
- Civic test
- Civic exam and prefecture interview
- Government fee
- EUR 255 in tax stamps
- Decision time
- Up to 18 months; 12 if resident 10+ years
- Dual citizenship
- Allowed
Requirements
- Five years of residence in France, or two years in the specific cases set by law.
- Stable and sufficient income to support oneself and family.
- French at level B2, shown by a qualifying diploma or a TCF or TEF certificate under two years old.
- A pass in the civic exam and an assimilation interview at the prefecture.
- Payment of the EUR 255 fee by tax stamp.
How to apply
- Obtain a B2 diploma or a TCF or TEF certificate and pass the civic exam.
- Submit the application online, or by post to a naturalization platform if online filing is impossible.
- Attend the prefecture interview.
- Await the decision, which is due within 18 months of the receipt.
The two-year route and the 2026 language rules
Two of the reduced-period cases can be relevant to founders. People who can render important services to France through their abilities, and people with an exceptional integration path, including in the economic field, may apply after two years instead of five. Graduates who completed two years of study at a French higher education institution also qualify for the shorter period. These cases still require every other condition, including language, the civic exam and stable resources.
Decree No. 2025-648 of 15 July 2025 raised the French level required for naturalization to B2 and introduced the civic exam, both for applications from 1 January 2026. Accepted proof now includes the national brevet diploma, French state diplomas or professional certifications at level 3 or higher, any diploma showing B2, and TCF or TEF certificates issued less than two years earlier.
Questions and answers
How many years until a founder can apply for French citizenship?
Five years of residence is the standard minimum. Two years can be enough for graduates of a French higher education institution after two years of study, for people able to render important services to France, and for applicants with an exceptional integration path, including economic achievements.
Does France allow dual citizenship?
Yes. Acquiring French nationality does not require giving up another nationality, and dual or even triple nationality is possible. The other country's law may differ, and a dual national living in that country may be treated there as its own national only.
What French level is needed for naturalization in 2026?
Level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference, orally and in writing. Proof can be a diploma at that level, the national brevet or a qualifying vocational certificate, or a TCF or TEF certificate issued less than two years earlier. Exemptions exist for certain health conditions.
How long does a naturalization decision take?
The administration has up to 18 months from the receipt to decide, or 12 months when the applicant proves at least ten years of habitual residence in France. That deadline can be extended once, by three months, with a justification given to the applicant.
Does France offer citizenship by investment?
No program grants French nationality in exchange for an investment. Investors can obtain a talent card through the direct economic investment pathway and, like other residents, apply for naturalization once they meet the residence, language and integration conditions.
Official sources
- French naturalization by decree - Service Publicwww.service-public.gouv.fr
- French nationality: how to justify your level in French? - Service Publicwww.service-public.gouv.fr
- Peut-on avoir plusieurs nationalités en France ? - Service Publicwww.service-public.gouv.fr
- Residence permit - A new civic examination for foreigners wishing to settle in France - Service Publicwww.service-public.gouv.fr
Reviewed October 2026. Immigration rules change often. Confirm the current requirements with the official authority or a licensed adviser before applying.
Your path in France.
Startup visa
Long-stay visa from a French consulate, then a talent card via ANEF
02Temporary residence
Talent card for up to 4 years; spouse and children get talent-family cards
03Permanent residence
EU long-term resident card after 5 years, with B1 French and a civic exam
04Citizenship
Naturalization after 5 years, or 2 in some cases; B2 French; dual allowed