The circular, revealed on May 4, 2025, emphasizes higher proficiency in the French language and a commitment to Republican values as prerequisites for naturalization.

Bruno Retailleau, the Minister of the Interior, has introduced a new circular that imposes stricter conditions for foreign nationals seeking French citizenship.

Retailleau reiterated that naturalization is a sovereign decision of the government, emphasizing that it is not an automatic right.

Some analysts suggest that Retailleau's tough stance may be more about gaining media attention for potential presidential ambitions in 2027 than about enacting real change.

As part of these new requirements, the level of the French language oral examination will be raised, and applicants must demonstrate financial independence without relying on social welfare.

Historically, about one-third of citizenship applications are either refused or postponed, often due to insufficient appreciation of French values during interviews.

To qualify for citizenship, applicants must show professional integration over a five-year period and provide evidence of sufficient and stable resources.

Retailleau's announcement includes plans for a new civic exam starting January 1, 2026, to assess applicants' knowledge of French history and civic rights.

Currently, applicants must have resided in France for at least five years, have no serious criminal convictions, and possess a B1 level of proficiency in French.

The new law will increase the French language requirement from B1 to B2, effective January 2026, further tightening the criteria for naturalization.

Prefects are mandated to report back to the Minister on the implementation of these measures within three months.

The circular outlines three key criteria for obtaining French nationality: respect for laws, knowledge of the French language, and understanding of French history and civic culture.