Who do the new French language tests changes affect - and from when?

Many readers have contacted The Connexion asking for clarification on the new rules around French language tests for some residency cards and nationality applications and when they are due to start. Here are the essentials to know.

What are the language test changes?

There are two changes announced under the new rules outlined in France’s 2024 Immigration law:

1: Some residency cards but not all will require the passing of a language test where this was not required before. The cards affected are ones which require a Republican Integration Contract. 

The level required is an A2 (an elementary level that includes some common words and phrases) under the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages)

2: For some other residency cards, and for French nationality, both of which already require tests, the difficulty level will rise. This applies to nationality applications due to residency and to marriage. 

The level of test for obtaining a 10-year carte de résident will be raised to a lower intermediate level, B1, instead of A2, and for those seeking French citizenship to B2 (upper intermediate) instead of B1.

When will these language test changes start?

The start date for the changes for nationality applications will begin on January 1, 2026. This was confirmed by a decree here.

The start date for the change to residency cards has not been set but the law requires they come into effect by January 1, 2026 (so, it could be before). A decree must be passed to do this.

Use our graph, below, to see if you are affected and, if so, from when. If you have a query on this topic send it to questions@connexionfrance.com