After the naturalization interview at the prefecture, there is still much to do to become French. Understanding how it works is essential. It helps to know where your application stands and to anticipate the next steps. Our guide explains the actions to follow, the usual waiting times, how to check the status of your file, and the available assistance.
Main information to remember
- The deadlines after the naturalization interview to receive a response vary between 10 and 18 months.
- About 6 months after receiving the email confirming the interview, your name may appear in the naturalization decree.
- A case tracking service already has 1028 registered individuals to be alerted.
- Facebook pages allow you to be notified when a name appears in the decree.
- The majority of serial numbers in the Official Journal are in the format 2019X, 029XXXX, indicating that the serial number will soon appear.
Understanding the steps after the naturalization interview
After your naturalization interview, your file is examined by the prefecture. It follows an important validation process. This prepares the sending of your file to the Ministry of the Interior.
File validation process
Your naturalization file is first studied by the prefecture. It can approve or reject it. If your file is approved, it is forwarded to the Ministry of the Interior. There, a thorough investigation is conducted. Then, the final decision to grant French nationality is made.
Role of the prefecture and the Ministry of the Interior
It is crucial to communicate any personal or professional changes to the prefecture. These modifications can influence the processing of your application. This allows for better coordination at the prefecture, thus facilitating the process.
Report any change in situation
After submitting your naturalization file, inform your prefecture if something changes in your personal, professional, or family situation. These changes influence the examination of your application. It is vital to communicate them. This will improve the processing of your file.
Let them know if you move, change jobs, get married, become a parent, or lose a loved one. The prefectural services must be kept informed. This way, they can better manage your naturalization file during the naturalization process in France.
Being proactive and quickly informing about changes helps your application progress faster. This helps avoid problems. Honesty and promptness are key to successfully completing your naturalization procedure.
Average waiting times after the naturalization interview
You have just had your naturalization interview at the prefecture. You are probably wondering when you will receive a response. On average, it takes between 10 and 18 months to receive news. These figures vary from one prefecture to another.
The differences in time can be explained by the number of applications and the organization of each prefecture.
Variations by prefectures
Deadlines are often 10 to 18 months, but this can change. Sometimes, certain prefectures process files faster. Other times, it may take a bit longer.
It is important to stay calm and monitor the progress of your file with the local prefecture.
Approximate period for the response
In general, expect a response 6 months after the interview. This is just an estimate. Actual deadlines depend on several factors.
Your particular situation and the workload of the prefecture can slow down or speed up the process.
Check the release of naturalization decrees
To know if you have been naturalized, frequently check the publication of decrees. They are released approximately every 15 days in the Official Journal of the French Republic. There are also websites that track this and where you can search.
Frequency of decree publication
Decrees are released regularly, every two weeks. Therefore, you need to keep an eye out to see if your name is there. Being attentive will help you quickly know the status of your naturalization in France.
Sources to track decrees
In addition to the Official Journal, specialized websites monitor naturalization decrees. Some even offer to send you a message as soon as your name is published, so you don’t have to search all the time. This makes tracking your naturalization file simpler.
The REZE number: a valuable indicator
The REZE number is essential for understanding where your naturalization application stands. It appears as follows: “2019X 030XXX”. It indicates the week when the prefecture received your application.
Obtaining your REZE number
To get your REZE number, contact the person who is following your file. Do this a few months after your interview.
This step is crucial for the naturalization process in France, tracking the naturalization file, and the recruitment of prefects.
Interpreting the REZE number
Once you have this number, check the naturalization decrees. See if your number is published. This way, you will know where your file stands in the naturalization process in France. To better understand the steps to obtain a residence permit, it is important to refer to the available information.

Register for a file tracking service
It is convenient to register for a naturalization tracking service. This avoids endless searching. After registration, you will be notified by SMS or email. Thus, as soon as your name appears in a decree, you will know. This makes tracking your file much simpler.
| Tracking service | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Registration for a notification service | – Receive an alert as soon as your name appears in a decree – Save time by avoiding regular checks – Stay informed about the progress of your file |
| Subscription to dedicated Facebook pages | – Access to the latest news on naturalization procedures – Sharing experiences and advice from others in the same situation – Support and assistance from the community |
Online services can facilitate your naturalization procedures. They help you track the progress of your file. This avoids tedious searches. Don’t hesitate to use them to stay informed easily.
After the prefecture naturalization interview: follow social media
There are many Facebook groups to follow naturalization in France. Join them to stay informed. You will find the latest news, average waiting times, and testimonials that could help you, especially those related to the prefecture of Foix.
Sharing with others online can be a great support. It is important during these waiting times.
Dedicated Facebook page
Facebook pages that follow naturalization connect you with others in the same situation. This can be encouraging and informative. You will find valuable advice to move forward in your procedures.
Receive a notification when your name appears
You can know when your name appears in a naturalization decree. Just register for a notification system. You will receive an SMS or email as soon as your file is validated.
This saves you from having to check official announcements frequently. It is a practical and reliable way to track the progress of your application.
| Average delay | Step |
|---|---|
| 3-4 months | Delay after the interview before contacting the prefecture for the status |
| 2 days | Response time after contacting the SCEC for the status |
| 6 weeks | Recommended delay after receiving an email indicating progress |
| 5 weeks | Delay for document verification by the SCEC once the file is received |
| 6 months | Average delay to receive a summons after naturalization acceptance |
The average waiting times help you understand the naturalization process. Be patient and keep an eye on your file. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to call the relevant services.
Prepare for the next steps
While waiting, prepare for the next steps of the naturalization procedure. Gather the necessary documents, such as those regarding your identity, residence, family, and income. Also, find out what you will need to do once naturalized, such as document translation. This preparation will save you time after your naturalization is validated.
Documents to gather
Gather the necessary documents for naturalization in France. This includes proof of identity, address, family, and employment. By anticipating these steps, you will simplify your procedure.
Procedures to follow
After validation, other procedures await you, such as the translation of certain documents. Inform yourself about what needs to be done. Being prepared saves you time.

Understanding the decision-making process
After studying your naturalization file, there are a few possible outcomes. You may receive a positive response, be asked for more information, or be denied. If it is a denial, you will know why. You may then reapply for naturalization in France.
Different possible outcomes
After reviewing your file, a service will provide a response. This can be a yes for French nationality, or they may ask for more information. Alternatively, they may say no to your application. Each decision changes what will happen next.
Requests for additional information
If more information is needed, they will contact you. You will need to provide these documents within a given timeframe. Responding quickly is essential to avoid slowing down your naturalization request.
Managing waiting times
Waiting for your naturalization can seem long and difficult. It is key to remain calm and serene. To do this, you need to learn to be patient and take a step back. A good strategy is to focus on other projects or stay socially active.
It is important to maintain a positive attitude. Keep yourself occupied in a useful way while waiting for the decision. This can help reduce anxiety related to the naturalization process in France.
Strategies to stay patient
Trying to be patient during the prefecture naturalization delays is crucial. Take time to relax. Focus on other aspects of life.
It’s good to develop new interests or spend time with family. Remember that administrative procedures take time. In this context, the Kanagawa economic sector can also offer interesting opportunities. But in the end, it will be worth it.
Activities to undertake while waiting
There are many ways to keep busy while waiting. You can help with volunteer projects or learn a new language. Additionally, discovering new hobbies can be very enriching.
These activities help maintain morale and well-being. Even if the waiting times for naturalization in France can be long, staying active is important.
Translations and legalizations of documents
In your naturalization process, you will need foreign documents translated into French. They must be translated by certified translators. Some papers will require legalization to prove their authenticity. Stay informed about what to do by contacting your country's embassy or consulate. It is important to plan these steps to avoid delaying your naturalization.
Using certified translators
Any document in a foreign language, such as birth certificates, must be translated into French by sworn translators. This helps ensure that the meaning of the documents remains the same. Having documents correctly translated is a big step for naturalization.
Apostille or legalization process
In addition to translation, some papers may need to be legalized. This aims to certify their authenticity with the authorities in France. Consider asking your embassy or consulate about how to proceed. The procedures vary by location.
| Type of document | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Documents written in a foreign language | Translation by a certified translator |
| Foreign civil status acts | Legalization or apostille |
| Foreign criminal record | Original extract, for residents of less than 10 years |
| French civil status acts | Dated less than 3 months |
Resources and assistance available
The process of tracking your naturalization file is supported at every step. You will find help online and by phone. These services are there to guide you and answer your questions.
Online and phone assistance
There are several services that offer personalized help. To track your naturalization file, call them or use their web platforms. You will find clear and helpful answers to your questions.
Digital reception points at the prefecture
Prefectures offer digital reception points. They can help you organize your file. These contact points can be very useful in your procedures.
Don’t miss the opportunity to inform yourself and ask for help. It is important to take advantage of all available means to navigate the naturalization process more easily.
After the prefecture naturalization interview: track the progress
After your naturalization interview, you need to track the progress of your file. You can do this by consulting the naturalization decrees, obtaining a REZE number, or registering for notifications. This vigilance helps you quickly know if your file is progressing. Thus, you prepare for what comes next if needed.
The REZE number is important. It looks like “2019X 030XXX” and indicates the week when your file was received. This number is unique and helps you track how your application is progressing.
There are also file tracking services with over 1000 registered users. These services send alerts via SMS or email when your name appears in a decree. This saves you from having to check everything yourself.
Additionally, social media can provide useful information. Specific Facebook pages on naturalization offer information on waiting times, testimonials, and advice. Monitor these communities to stay updated.
Stay vigilant and organized. This will help you react quickly if something changes in your naturalization procedure.
Conclusion
After the naturalization interview, there is still much to do to obtain French nationality. Understanding the process is crucial. Keeping an eye on your file and preparing well for what comes next helps a lot. With patience, organization, and assistance, you will navigate the steps more easily.
The journey to becoming French may seem long and difficult. However, it is a great achievement. By preparing well and approaching your interview seriously, you increase your chances of success.
Stay patient and active to track your file after the prefecture interview. Don’t hesitate to use the offered assistance. If you don’t give up, you will one day be a proud French citizen.
FAQ
What happens after the naturalization interview at the prefecture?
After your interview, your file is examined by the prefecture and the Ministry of the Interior. They validate or not your French nationality.
Should I report any change in situation after submitting my file?
Yes, you should inform the prefecture if your personal, professional, or family situation changes. This could influence the processing of your application.
How long does it take to get a response after the naturalization interview?
Responses generally take 10 to 18 months. However, the time may vary by prefecture. A response often arrives 6 months after the interview.
How can I check if I have been naturalized?
To find out, regularly check the naturalization decrees on the Official Journal website. They are published approximately every 15 days.
What is the REZE number and what is it for?
The REZE number, expressed as “2019X 030XXX”, shows when your file was received. It helps track your file.
How can I stay informed about the progress of my file?
You can register for a notification service; receive an SMS or email when your naturalization is decided. Also, follow social media on naturalization in France.
What should I do to prepare for the next steps?
Prepare the required documents such as those regarding your identity and residence. Also, learn about the next steps after your naturalization approval.
What are the different possible outcomes after my file is reviewed?
After the review, you could obtain French nationality, be asked for more information, or face a denial. A denial involves an explanation of the reasons and the possibility to reapply.
How can I manage waiting times?
To wait, keep yourself occupied with other projects, maintain your social connections, or volunteer. This helps to stay positive.
What procedures should I follow for documents written in a foreign language?
You will need to translate these documents into French with a certified translator. Some also require legalization to prove their authenticity.
What resources are available to assist me in my naturalization procedure?
There are online and phone services, as well as digital reception points in prefectures, to help and answer your questions.
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