France’s new immigration law, Law no. 2024-42 of 26 January 2024, introduces tougher language requirements for foreign nationals seeking residence permits. Following the implementation decrees of July–August 2025, these changes are being rolled out across prefectures and will be mandatory nationwide from 1 January 2026.
The reform places greater emphasis on language skills as a condition for legal residence, reinforcing the government’s broader objective of promoting long-term integration through civic engagement and linguistic competence. It marks a notable shift in French immigration policy, prioritising integration as a prerequisite for both temporary and long-term residency.
What Are the New Language Requirements?
As part of the Immigration and Integration Law (Law no. 2024-42, 26 January 2024), French language proficiency requirements have been raised for certain residence permits, with enforcement being phased in through 2025.
- Carte de séjour pluriannuelle (multi-year permit) now requires proof of A2 level French (basic user), according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Previously: A1 level or no standardised requirement, depending on the permit type.
- Carte de résident (10-year residence card) now requires B1 level French (independent user). Previously: A2 level sufficed for most applicants.
Applicants must prove their language level via an official diploma or certificate from a recognised test, typically the TCF IRN or DELF. Simply attending classes is no longer enough, especially for the 10-year permit. This formalisation was clarified in Decree no. 2025-647 of 15 July 2025, which also introduced a new mandatory civic exam for certain applicants.
Who Is Affected by These Changes?
The new language thresholds apply primarily to non-EU nationals requesting long-term residency in France, particularly when applying for:
- First-time multi-year residence permits (A2 requirement)
- First-time 10-year carte de résident (B1 requirement)
- Some “vie privée et familiale” permits
- Applicants changing status (e.g. students → workers)
- Entrepreneurs, freelancers, and self-employed professionals
- Spouses of French nationals (depending on the permit type)
These thresholds apply at the first issuance of multi-year or permanent cards, not for most renewals, as the language requirement is deemed already fulfilled from the initial application.
When Do the Requirements Apply?
Although the law was passed in January 2024, enforcement began only after the publication of key decrees in July and August 2025. The new rules are now being progressively applied by prefectures across France, with full and uniform implementation set for 1 January 2026.
Don’t rely on transitional leniency, it’s phasing out rapidly. Applicants should assume that by early 2026, all prefectures will require formal proof of language skills as part of their residence permit applications.
How Do You Prove Your Language Level?
To meet the new requirement, you’ll need one of the following:
- A DELF diploma or equivalent official certification
- A passing score from a recognised test like the TCF IRN
- Note: Just attending French classes is no longer sufficient, especially for the carte de résident.
Tip: Book your TCF IRN exam early, slots can fill quickly. The designated provider is now formalised under the Arrêté du 20 août 2025, published by France Éducation International.
What If You Don’t Yet Meet the Required Level?
Here’s the good news: you don’t automatically lose your right to stay if you don’t pass the test.
Applicants who fall short of the required language level can still be granted a one-year carte de séjour instead of the multi-year or 10-year version. This gives you additional time to study and retake your test while maintaining legal residency.
In other words, failing the test isn’t fatal, but it does mean your stay in France remains short-term and renewable.
What Are the Exemptions?
Some individuals are exempt from the new language requirements under the law:
- People aged 65 or older
- Individuals with medical conditions preventing language acquisition (requires medical proof)
- Certain cases of family reunification, though basic comprehension may still be assessed
Brexit WA Card Holders Are Not Affected: The changes do not apply to British nationals holding Brexit Withdrawal Agreement permits (WARP). Their 5-year and 10-year cards remain governed by existing WA rules.
What About the New Civic Exam?
Beginning in 2026, applicants for the carte de résident and some other statuses will need to pass a new QCV civic knowledge test introduced by Decree no. 2025-647. This replaces the old “contrat d’intégration républicaine” (CIR) model and is designed to ensure deeper understanding of French values and institutions.
This written exam is currently being piloted in select prefectures and will become compulsory nationwide alongside the language thresholds from January 2026.
What If You Plan to Naturalise?
Looking even further ahead? As of 1 January 2026, the language level for naturalisation is rising to B2 (upper intermediate). This was confirmed in a companion decree currently under review and reflects a broader trend: naturalisation is being treated as the highest level of integration, and language is central to that.
Practical Steps for Applicants
1. Assess your current level – Use a CEFR-aligned self-evaluation or speak with a language tutor.
2. Enrol in certified French classes – Look for courses approved by the French government or local préfecture. Many towns offer free or subsidised courses through integration programmes or associations.
3. Register early for recognised exams – The TCF IRN, DELF, or other certified assessments are available throughout the year but can book up months in advance.
4. Keep records of your progress – Certificates, course attendance, and transcripts can support your dossier.
A New Era of Integration
These new rules signal a significant shift in French immigration policy. The focus is no longer just on allowing residence, it’s about ensuring that foreign nationals are equipped to fully participate in French society.
For English-speaking expats, this may require more planning and investment. But it also offers a rewarding opportunity to connect more deeply with France, linguistically, culturally, and civically.
If you’re unsure whether you qualify, need help navigating your options, or want to understand how the rules affect your status, book a consultation with the Fab Expat team for tailored advice.