What French-language certification you need for naturalisation in 2026 — now B2 since 1 January.
Overview
France's language requirement for naturalisation was raised from B1 to B2 (CEFR) effective 1 January 2026 — Décret n° 2025-648 du 15 juillet 2025 implementing Loi n° 2024-42 du 26 janvier 2024 (the immigration control and integration law). This is a substantial increase requiring more sustained French-language study. The four recognised tests are: TCF (Test de Connaissance du Français), TEF (Test d'Évaluation de Français), DELF B2 (Diplôme d'Études en Langue Française), and DALF C1/C2. For other purposes — initial carte de séjour, multi-year renewal, EU Blue Card, Talent visa — no formal French language test is required. The CIR (Contrat d'Intégration Républicaine) includes a language assessment but doesn't require formal certification. The B2 requirement applies specifically to naturalisation by decree and citizenship by marriage. This guide details the requirements, verified against service-public.fr, immigration.interieur.gouv.fr, and France Education International.
Language Requirements by Status
| Status | Language Required? | Test | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial carte de séjour | No | — | No formal test required |
| Multi-year carte de séjour renewal | Variable | CIR language assessment | Often within the CIR framework |
| Talent visa | No | — | Not required at any stage |
| EU Blue Card | No | — | Not required at visa stage |
| Naturalisation by decree (5 yrs / 2 yrs Master's) | Yes — B2 from 1 January 2026 | TCF, TEF, DELF B2, DALF | Was B1 prior; reform increases threshold |
| Citizenship by marriage | Yes — B2 from 1 January 2026 | Same as naturalisation | Same reform applies |
| French Bachelor's or higher | Both exempt | — | Spanish secondary or higher education from French institutions |
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See Paid Plans →Frequently Asked Questions
Has the French citizenship language requirement really changed in 2026?
Yes — from 1 January 2026, the requirement is B2 French (raised from B1). Under Décret n° 2025-648 du 15 juillet 2025, implementing Article 20 of Loi n° 2024-42 du 26 janvier 2024 (the immigration control and integration law). Both naturalisation by decree and citizenship by marriage now require B2. Applications submitted before 1 January 2026 fall under the old B1 rule.
Which French language test should I take for naturalisation?
Any of the four recognised tests: TCF, TEF, DELF B2, or DALF. TCF is the most flexible (multi-level adaptive). DELF B2 is a standalone certificate at B2 level. DALF for C1/C2 levels (above naturalisation requirement). Cost ranges EUR 60-200 depending on test and location. All are equally recognised by French authorities.
How much do French citizenship tests cost?
TCF: EUR 60-120. TEF: EUR 75-130. DELF B2: EUR 130-200. DALF: EUR 130-220. Varies by location — Paris and international cities at the lower end; remote test centres slightly more. Re-takes incur fresh fees. The certificate is valid indefinitely once issued.
How long does it take to learn French to B2?
600-1,000 hours of structured learning typical from zero. Romance-language speakers (Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Romanian) progress significantly faster. Plan multiple years of part-time study or 12-18 months of intensive study for adults from English-only background. Multiple resources work better than relying on one — combine Alliance Française classes, apps, tutoring, immersion.
Where can I take a French language test outside France?
France Education International network operates in 80+ countries — TCF and DELF/DALF. Alliance Française centres worldwide (often the same testing sites). Chambre de Commerce de Paris network for TEF in select cities. Major cities (London, Paris, New York, Toronto, Sydney, Singapore, Tokyo, etc.) host multiple test dates per year. Registration via the relevant testing body's website.
Am I exempt from French language tests for naturalisation?
Yes if you completed French secondary or higher education — Brevet, Baccalauréat, Licence, Master's etc. from French institutions. Citizens of French-speaking countries may have case-by-case exemption. Severe disability with medical documentation may qualify. Elderly applicants (over 60) may have reduced expectations.
Can I use a DELF B1 certificate after 1 January 2026?
No for new naturalisation applications submitted on or after 1 January 2026 — the requirement is B2 minimum. If you have a DELF B1, you'd need to upgrade to DELF B2 or take a TCF/TEF at B2 level. Existing applications submitted before the cutoff continue under the old B1 rule. The pass-through period is strictly observed.
Can I learn French via the CIR (Contrat d'Intégration Républicaine)?
Yes — CIR includes free French language training for residents who don't already meet the assessed level. The CIR language assessment determines whether you need 100-600 hours of free classes. After completing CIR training, you don't automatically get a B2 certificate — you'd need to take a separate certification test (TCF, TEF, DELF B2) for naturalisation purposes.