Obtaining French citizenship through naturalisation - What do I need? 5 things you should know

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Naturalisation is a process in which a person can obtain French citizenship. Those who wish to apply for French citizenship have to meet the specific requirements...

1. The conditions and formalities in place when applying for French citizenship

Firstly, in order to apply for French citizenship, you have to be at least 18 years old. Rules are rules! But no need to panic, there is however an exception to this rule, if you are under age, and either of your parents have obtained French citizenship, you have to have resided in France with said parent for five years prior to your application.

2. Getting your documents translated by a sworn translator

You will be required to have your documents translated for your naturalisation application. All the documents will have to be translated into the language of the host country. In relation to the amount of required documents and turnaround times, these translations must be done by a sworn translator. In other words, sworn translators are the most appropriate option for your French citizenship application. In fact, other than just simply translating your document, sworn translators also add an official status to the document.

3. Administrative procedures

To comply with all the rules and possibly obtain French citizenship, the applicant must follow all of the administrative procedures in place. Applicants should start by filling out the application form for French citizenship by naturalisation (cerfa 12753) [Centre for registration and revision of administrative forms] and have a photocopy of the original. They must then include some documentary proof, such as proof of address and income, as well as a revenue stamp. Applicants must also include their civil documents, for example an original copy of their birth certificate, a certificate that states your level of spoken French, as well as the translations of these documents by a sworn translator if the documents are not in French.

Since 01 January 2012, applicants applying for French citizenship by naturalisation must provide a certificate or qualification which states their level of the French language, therefore they have to take the “Test de connaissance du français” [Official French language proficiency exam]. All applicants should have a B1 level of spoken French as defined by the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). However, applicants who, because of their age, chronic health deficiency or disability, are unable to provide this document, will be called for an individual meeting.

4. Where do I apply?

Once all the procedures have been followed, the applicant will have to go to the prefecture of their local area. On the other hand, if they live abroad, they will have to drop their application into the French Embassy in their country of residence.

5. The outcome

Accepted

The minister in charge of naturalisation applications is the person who can grant your naturalisation application.

If your application is successful, you will receive a letter and will be invited to present yourself at the prefecture, where an extract of the Decree of Naturalisation, as well as a copy of the French Civil Code, will be given to you.

Unsuccessful

The prefect can decide to decline your application if they believe that it is unnecessary, even if everything is in order. In this event, you will be called into the prefecture, or will receive a registered letter with acknowledgment of receipt.

Ultimately, despite the lengthy process, these rules are not insurmountable if you respect them, and having a sworn translator taking care of your documents is one less thing to worry about and one step closer to French citizenship, all you have to do is contact a sworn translator.

Posted in: Naturalization, Latest news

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