The minimum residency requirement to become a French citizen is five years.
This requirement applies to individuals who have:
- A valid residence permit: You must have a valid residence permit throughout your residency period.
- Legal status in France: Your residency must be legal and valid according to French law.
- No criminal record: You must not have any criminal convictions that would disqualify you from citizenship.
- Sufficient language proficiency: You must demonstrate a sufficient level of French language proficiency.
- Integration into French society: You must demonstrate integration into French society, such as by participating in civic activities or having a job.
Important Note: The residency requirement may be shortened to two years for individuals who meet certain criteria, such as:
- Marriage to a French citizen: You must have been married to a French citizen for at least two years.
- Descendants of French citizens: You must have at least one parent who is a French citizen.
- Refugee status: You must have been granted refugee status in France.
- Other exceptional circumstances: You may be eligible for a reduced residency period in other exceptional circumstances, such as having made significant contributions to France.
To begin the naturalization process, you must submit an application to the French authorities. The application will be reviewed, and you will be interviewed to assess your eligibility for French citizenship.
