Residence
5 yrs
Via marriage
~4 yrs
By descent
Ancestors
Dual citizenship
Allowed
Recent change: Applications filed from 1 January 2026 need B2 French (up from B1) and a civics exam.
Naturalisation by residence
5 years of regular residence in France (2 years if you completed 2 years of higher education in France). Naturalisation is discretionary.
Through marriage
Spouses of French citizens can apply by declaration after 4 years of marriage (5 years if you have not lived in France for at least 3 years during the marriage).
By descent (ancestry)
A child with at least one French parent is French at birth, wherever born. French nationality can be lost if a family has lived abroad without ties to France for 50 years.
Language & tests
French at B2 level (since 1 January 2026) plus a civics exam.
Dual citizenship
France allows dual citizenship.
Frequently asked questions
How many years does it take to get France citizenship?
The standard requirement is 5 years. 5 years of regular residence in France (2 years if you completed 2 years of higher education in France). Naturalisation is discretionary.
Does France allow dual citizenship?
Allowed. France allows dual citizenship.
Can I get France citizenship through marriage?
Spouses of French citizens can apply by declaration after 4 years of marriage (5 years if you have not lived in France for at least 3 years during the marriage).
Can I get France citizenship through my parents or grandparents?
A child with at least one French parent is French at birth, wherever born. French nationality can be lost if a family has lived abroad without ties to France for 50 years.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Requirements change and individual circumstances matter; confirm with Service-Public.fr – Nationalité or a qualified immigration lawyer before applying.