How to Get French Nationality: B2 Test & Naturalization Interview

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Obtain French Nationality: Steps and Conditions

Running a marathon

Are you dreaming of holding a French passport? You might already meet the conditions! But be warned, a French naturalization application isn’t a sprint, rather an administrative marathon. Here are general guidelines to help you understand the requirements, and ace the French B2 test and the famous naturalization interview.

There are four main ways to become a French citizen. We’ll focus on the first two, since they’re the most common and both require a French B2 level for naturalization:

  • By decree: The path of determination.
  • By marriage: The path of love.
  • By lineage (if you have a French child, are over 65, and have resided in France for 25 years).
  • By kinship (if you have a French sibling and were educated in France from ages 6 to 16).

Naturalization by Decree

Becoming French by decree means you’ll be granted nationality based on your own merits. It’s the most common route and depends entirely on you.

Naturalisation decree

The main conditions are:

  1. Be over 18 years old.
  2. Have resided regularly in France for at least 5 years (reduced to 2 years if you completed 2 years of higher education in France).
  3. Demonstrate a B2 level in French for naturalization.
  4. Show solid knowledge of French culture, history, and values.
  5. Be professionally integrated into society.
  6. Have no criminal record.

Naturalization by Marriage

Cupid has cracked the doors wide open for you! In fact, marriage to a French citizen can simplify the process, but you’ll still need to meet certain conditions:

  1. Be married to a French citizen for at least 4–5 years.
  2. Reside in France for at least 3 years after your marriage (or 5 years if living abroad).
  3. Prove a shared life and mutual commitment.
  4. Demonstrate a B2 level in French for naturalization.
  5. Have no criminal record.

The Essential Step: Proving Your French Language Skills

Whichever path you take, the French B2 test is unavoidable for most applicants. Authorities need to be sure you can communicate effectively and participate in French society.

What is the Required French Level for Naturalization?

The law requires a B2 level (upper-intermediate). During your naturalization interview, a government officer will check not only your spoken French but also your knowledge of French values and the Citizen’s Booklet (le livret du citoyen). You’ll also need to provide an official B2 certificate.

Une femme passant son entretien de naturalisation et son examinatrice

French B2 Test for Naturalization: Price & Preparation

You can prove your level with a certified diploma like the DELF B2, the TCF, or the TEF. Prices vary depending on the exam center, but one thing is clear: proper preparation is the key to success. These tests are challenging, and it’s best to prepare for the B2 French exam and the naturalization interview at the same time.

Take the Next Step with LFM

Obtaining the French nationality is serious but achievable if you meet the conditions and master the language. The paperwork may be tedious, but the real challenge lies in proving your French B2 level and succeeding in the naturalization interview.

That’s where LFM- Le français maîtrisé can help.

At LFM- Le français maîtrisé, we specialize in preparing candidates for the DELF B2 exam, TCF or TEF and the naturalization interview. Our courses give you:

  • A solid foundation in grammar and vocabulary at the B2 level.
  • Targeted training for exam success.
  • Mock interviews to build confidence in front of officials.

Call us today to discuss your situation and start your preparation.
Or better yet, register now for our preparation course and take one big step closer to becoming French.

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