French naturalization by decree
Naturalization by decree is the procedure through which the public authority may grant you French nationality. It is not an automatic right: even if you meet the legal conditions, the administration may accept or refuse your application.
In practice, you must show that you live durably in France, that you are professionally integrated, and that you are assimilated into the French community — notably through a prefecture interview.
Main conditions you must meet
Full details are on Service-Public. These are the points people ask about most:
- Age: generally be an adult (special rules may apply for some minors).
- Residence in France when the naturalization decree is signed: your main material interests (including work) and family ties must be in France.
- Minimum habitual and continuous residence: usually 5 years. This can be reduced to 2 years in some situations (for example two successful years of higher education in a French institution, or important services rendered to France).
- Lawful stay: a valid residence permit when filing (with exceptions, including for some European nationals).
- Assimilation into the French community: verified notably by a prefecture interview.
- French language: sufficient knowledge (B2 oral and written CEFR for applications covered by current rules).
- Professional integration: stable, sufficient income for yourself and your household.
- Good character: no disqualifying convictions and behaviour compatible with Republican values.
The assimilation interview at the prefecture
If your application is deemed receivable, you are summoned to an interview. Its purpose is to check your assimilation into the French community, including your adherence to the essential principles and values of the Republic.
Service-Public recommends preparing with the Livret du Citoyen. At the end of the interview, you must sign the Charter of rights and duties of the French citizen. Bring the originals listed on your summons.
If you do not attend without a legitimate reason, your application may be closed without further action.
- Talk about your journey in France, your daily life and your motivations
- Show that you understand Republican values (equality, secularism, rule of law, rights and duties)
- Use Livret du Citoyen knowledge naturally — not as a memorized speech
How IzyNat helps you succeed the interview
IzyNat is built to help you succeed your naturalization interview — not just to read a booklet.
You learn the 2026 Livret du Citoyen by practicing: it is split into small pieces trained through practice series until mastery. Questions can link to concepts from official Livret du Citoyen passages, with smart progress tracking.
Once Livret du Citoyen learning is done, you prepare the interview under realistic conditions: simulations, progress tracking, and advice on how to answer best on the day.
Official sources
Other procedure
French nationality by marriageIzyNat is an independent preparation tool. It does not replace prefecture or Service-Public guidance, and is not affiliated with the Ministry of the Interior.