From 2026, the language requirements for obtaining French citizenship will change significantly. The level of French language proficiency required will be raised, and this means new challenges for applicants for naturalization. This article explains the details of this reform, the reasons behind it, and above all, how to prepare for it, in particular by aiming for the DELF B2 level.

Why is language at the heart of the French citizenship process?

Mastery of the French language has long been a central criterion in the French citizenship process. It’s much more than a means of communication: it’s a vector for integration into French society, its institutions, culture and civic life.
According to the official Service-public.fr website, “knowledge of the French language is an essential condition for integration into the national community”. This requirement is also based on the French Civil Code, which stipulates that a candidate for naturalization must demonstrate sufficient knowledge of French, adapted to his or her situation.

What will change from 2026: a higher level of proficiency required

Accepted proof of B2 level

To meet this new requirement, candidates will need to present an official attestation of their level of French. Several formats are accepted:

• DELF B2 (Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française), issued by France Éducation International on behalf of the French Ministry of Education. Valid for life

• TCF IRN (Test de Connaissance du Français – Intégration, Résidence, Nationalité), offered by France Éducation International. 2 years validity

• TEF IRN (Test d’Évaluation de Français), issued by the Paris Chamber of Commerce and Industry. 2 years validity.

• Certain university diplomas issued in French-speaking countries, subject to validation by the ENIC-NARIC Center.

According to the French Ministry of the Interior website, language certifications TCF and TEF must be less than two years old at the time of application for naturalization.

Understanding level DELF B2 for French citizenship

Level B2 corresponds to an advanced independent level according to the CEFR. At this level, the user can understand complex texts, express a clear and nuanced point of view, and interact with a certain degree of spontaneity.
The expected skills are as follows:

• Oral comprehension: understand lectures, broadcasts or debates using standard language.

• Reading comprehension: reading and understanding articles, essays, reports or contemporary stories.

• Oral expression: take part in structured discussions, present arguments, defend a point of view.

• Written expression: write coherent, structured texts with a good level of grammatical accuracy.

According to the Council of Europe, this level enables independent functioning in most social, professional and academic contexts.

How can I prepare effectively to achieve level B2 for French citizenship?

Achieving level B2 cannot be improvised. According to estimates from the European Framework, it takes around 200 to 250 hours of additional work to go from level B1 to level B2.

Here are a few tips to help you get organized:

1. Make an initial assessment: knowing your initial level is essential for targeting priorities.
2. Work on all skills: listening, reading, speaking and writing.
3. Take structured courses: ideally with a teacher specialized in FLE who will provide you with personalized support.
4. Use official resources: DELF B2 practice subjects, annals, oral simulations.
5. Practice in real-life conditions: write essays, give oral presentations, take part in discussions.

Regularity, variety of media and personalized feedback are the keys to success.

Why You Should Start Now

If you plan to apply for French citizenship in 2026 or later, it is strongly recommended to start preparing now.

Progressing to the B2 level takes time. The most common mistakes made by applicants are:

• Underestimating the complexity of written tasks at this level.
• Focusing only on speaking practice.
• Waiting until the last minute to register for an exam.

Preparing your naturalization file in advance allows you to gain peace of mind, avoid administrative delays, and increase your chances of passing the language exam.

Naturalization Process After 2026

The steps to obtain French nationality remain largely the same, except for the required language level:

• Prepare required documents: birth certificate, proof of residence, integration evidence.
• Provide proof of B2 level.
• Submit a complete application via the official portal or at the prefecture.
• Attend an individual interview to assess your understanding of the values of the Republic.
• Wait for the administrative decision, which can take several months.

All details are available on the official website service-public.fr.

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Conclusion

The introduction of the B2 requirement for French naturalization starting in 2026 is a major change. This reform raises the bar, but it also offers a great opportunity to strengthen your French skills and fully integrate into French society.

With solid preparation, clear goals, and the right guidance, you can reach this level and succeed in your naturalization project. Don’t wait until the last minute—start today.

Official Sources and References

Here are the direct links to the documents, platforms, and articles mentioned in the text. They will allow you to explore each topic further or consult the resources yourself.

French Administration and Legal Texts

• Service-public.fr – Conditions de naturalisation française
  https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F2213
  
• Ministère de l’Intérieur – Portail des étrangers en France (dépôt de dossier)
  https://administration-etrangers-en-france.interieur.gouv.fr/
  

• Code civil – Article 21-24 sur la maîtrise du français pour la naturalisation
  https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/codes/id/LEGISCTA000006164226/

French Language and Official Exams

• France Éducation International – DELF B2, informations et entraînement
  https://www.france-education-international.fr/diplome/delf-tout-public/niveau-b2/entrainement
  
• Cadre européen commun de référence pour les langues (CECRL) – Conseil de l’Europe
  https://www.coe.int/fr/web/common-european-framework-reference-languages
  
• France Éducation International – TCF IRN
  https://www.france-education-international.fr/test/tcf-integration-residence-et-nationalite
  
• Le Français des Affaires – TEF IRN (Test d’Évaluation de Français)
  https://www.lefrancaisdesaffaires.fr/tests-diplomes/tests-de-francais/tef/
  

Press Article

• Le Monde – Une nouvelle loi sur l’immigration qui s’ajoute à une longue série (14 oct. 2023) https://www.lemonde.fr/les-decodeurs/article/2023/10/14/une-nouvelle-loi-sur-l-immigration-qui-s-ajoutera-a-une-longue-serie-de-118-textes-depuis-1945_6194153_4355771.html