The naturalization process in France has changed significantly. Now, it is easier for applicants. Since July 26, 2021, naturalization applications by decree can be submitted online. This takes place on the secure website of the French Foreigners Administration.
Previously, one had to go to the prefecture to submit their file. Now, one only goes there for the interview. But this change is very helpful.
To prepare your file, there is a simulator on the service-public.fr website. And if you need help, don’t worry. There are places like the Citizen Contact Center to guide you. This is especially helpful for people who do not have a computer.
Even though it is simpler now, making an appointment at the prefecture is still necessary. Speak with experts to learn everything about the deadlines and the requirements to become French.
Steps for a naturalization application
In France, one can apply for naturalization by decree or by declaration. The file is mostly submitted online today. This is better because only the interview is done face-to-face.
Procedure by decree or by declaration
You must choose how to apply for naturalization, by decree or by declaration. Check the prefecture websites to see what documents to provide.
Required documents for file preparation
No matter how you apply, you will need certain mandatory documents. Visit the prefecture websites to find the complete list.
Why make an appointment at the prefecture for naturalization?
Making an appointment at the prefecture is very important to become French. This concerns everyone, whether making a special or standard request. During this appointment, they will assess your French language skills and your understanding of life in France. This is a key step to allow your file to be fully reviewed.
Mandatory steps in the procedure
To become a French citizen, there are several things to do. Making an appointment at the prefecture is part of it. The interview following the appointment checks if you speak French properly and if you feel comfortable in France.
Importance of an appointment for file processing
The appointment at the prefecture is crucial in the naturalization process. During this meeting, officials thoroughly review your file. They check your documents, assess your French, and evaluate your adaptation here. This step is very important for the proper processing of your application and to meet the deadlines.
Eligibility requirements for French naturalization
To become French through naturalization, you must live in France. This must be for at least 5 uninterrupted years. You must prove that you reside and actively live in France during this period.
Required French level (B1 oral and written)
Since August 2020, a B1 level in French is required to become French. This applies to both oral and written skills, with some exceptions. If you are 60 years or older, or if you studied in French in a French-speaking country, you may obtain an exemption.
Achieving a B1 level means you speak and write French at an intermediate level. To prove this, you must take the TCF or TEF tests. You must achieve a B1 level or higher. You also need to pass 3 out of the 4 parts of the tests.
The digitization of naturalization applications
Since July 2021, applications for French naturalization by decree are only online. This is done on the portal https://administration-etrangers-en-france.interieur.gouv.fr. There is no longer a need to go to the prefecture to submit your file. Only the assimilation interview is conducted in person, after being summoned.
Online submission via the National Agency for Secure Titles
Now, applicants submit their naturalization requests online. The website of the National Agency for Secure Titles manages this new process. This avoids the need to go to the prefecture to submit the file.
Tracking the file in a secure personal space
Individuals applying for naturalization can see the status of their file in real-time. This is possible through their secure personal space online. They also receive emails at each stage of their application.
Simulator and online guide to prepare the file
In France, if you want to become a citizen through naturalization by decree, online tools are available. For example, the service-public.fr website offers a simulator. This tool will guide you in creating your naturalization file.
This online simulator checks if you can proceed with a naturalization procedure in France. It will tell you the best way to proceed based on your situation. This can be by decree or through a declaration (marriage, family ties).
The simulator is not the only tool. You will also find guides on the documents you need to provide. These guides help you gather the important documents. This is essential before electronically submitting your application.
Support systems for online application
There are several ways to help people with their naturalization procedures dimi in France, as well as the conditions for French nationality. The Citizen Contact Center is very helpful for this.
Citizen Contact Center
The Citizen Contact Center answers calls from people who want to become French citizens. It is the first place to ask questions. For those who want to call, the number is 0806 001 620. They can also fill out a contact form on a website.
Digital reception points at the prefecture
In Bobigny and other locations, there are digital reception points to help. These points are located in the prefectures. They are there to assist people seeking to become citizens. You can get help using the online procedure.
Making an appointment online for a physical file submission
If you want to apply for nationality by declaration, you must submit your file by appointment. Make this appointment on the website of the relevant prefecture. Appointment slots open four weeks in advance, every Monday at 7 a.m., for the following week. This system makes the French digitization procedures simpler. It allows everyone to choose a convenient time to submit their file.
Links and platforms by department
Each department has its own rules for naturalization. To stay well-informed, it is advisable to visit the prefecture's website. There, you will find information on the processing times for applications and links to make an appointment online.
Appointment at the prefecture for naturalization: modalities and steps
At the appointment at the prefecture for naturalization, you must be on time. It is important to follow the given rules. The naturalization timelines at the prefecture depend on the workload, so be punctual and prepared.
Respect for schedules and instructions
For naturalization, come alone, unless you are married. It is better to arrive a little early, so everything goes smoothly.
Original documents required
At this appointment, bring all the documents for naturalization in original form. Prepare everything well before leaving. This will help your application progress faster without delays.
Fees and tax stamps for naturalization
In France, to become a citizen, one must pay fees and tax stamps. This applies to both decree and digitization requests. The amounts vary depending on the type of application. Payment can be made online or with tax stamps.
| Type of procedure | Fees and tax stamps |
|---|---|
| Naturalization by decree | The required tax stamp is €55. |
| Naturalization by declaration (marriage, ancestor, sibling) | The fee amount may vary depending on the specifics of each file. |
Choosing the naturalization procedure in France requires thorough research. It is important to know the necessary prefecture naturalization fees. This helps in preparing financially.
Processing times after file submission
After submitting the naturalization file, the processing times vary. This depends on the workload of the prefecture. Files sent by post take up to 4 months to verify. This is due to the high number of applications.
People applying for naturalization often have an interview at the prefecture within 6 months after the file submission. However, if it is for a naturalization by decree, it may take up to 18 months after the interview. Generally, a decree application takes 24 to 30 months to finalize.
It is better to frequently check your personal space. This is to see the status of your file and understand the naturalization timelines. This helps in understanding the naturalization procedure in France and anticipating what comes next.
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