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How to obtain French nationality?

by Aline Regna - DocuTrad
Dossier de demande de nationalité française avec documents traduits et certifiés – DocuTrad

Many foreign residents wish to become French citizens in order to benefit from expanded rights: voting, European mobility, administrative security, etc.
 But the naturalization process remains complex and requires officially translated documents.
DocuTrad offers you a clear and comprehensive guide to understanding the different ways to obtain French nationality and avoid administrative errors.

The main ways to become French

1. Naturalization by decree

This is the most common procedure. It is aimed at foreign adults who have been residing in France in a stable manner for at least 5 years (reduced to 2 years in some cases).
 Main conditions:

  • legal and continuous residence
  • integration into French society (employment, family, minimum French level B2, required since 1 January 2026)
  • clean criminal record
  • attachment to the values ​​of the Republic.
  • passing the civic exam, also required since 1 January 2026.

The application can be submitted online on the ANEF, the digital administration for foreigners in France. Online filing has been the standard route since 6 February 2023.

2. French nationality through marriage

A foreigner married to a French citizen can apply for citizenship after 4 years of marriage (5 years if he does not reside in France).
 The couple must prove their shared life and the stability of their marriage.

3. Nationality by descent or birth in France

Children born in France to foreign parents can automatically become French upon reaching the age of majority, or upon request from the age of 13 subject to residency conditions.

Documents required for a French citizenship application

The required documents vary depending on the situation, but the most common are:

  • birth certificate and marriage certificate (if applicable)
  • Proof of residence (bills, receipts, rental agreement)
  • Proof of income (pay slips, tax notices)
  • valid passport or residence permit
  • extract from criminal record of country of origin
  • diplomas or certificates of French language level (level B2).

All documents written in a foreign language must be translated by a sworn translator accredited to a Court of Appeal.

Why is a certified translation essential?

A standard translation has no legal value for French prefectures.
Only a sworn translation, sealed, signed and accompanied by an official statement, is recognized.

These translations are required for:

  • civil status records (birth, marriage, divorce)
  • diplomas and language certificates
  • extracts from criminal record
  • court judgments or decisions.

DocuTrad produces these translations in 24 to 48 hours, conforming to the standards of the prefectures and the Ministry of the Interior.

Steps in the naturalization application process

  1. Check eligibility requirements (residence, integration, clean criminal record).
  2. Gather the supporting documents and their certified translations.
  3. Complete the official application form (Cerfa n°12753).
  4. Submit the complete application via the online platform or at the prefecture.
  5. Participate in the individual interview, focusing on your background and civic knowledge.
  6. Take the civic exam and attach the certificate of success.
  7. Wait for the decision: the administration has 18 months, reduced to 12 months if you have been resident in France for at least 10 years.

Administrative delays and fees

Applying for French nationality is chargeable.
 A €255 tax stamp (€127.50 in French Guiana) has been required since 1 May 2026. An application filed at a consulate from abroad still costs €55.
 Official translations represent an average cost of €40 to €70 per document, depending on the language and volume.

DocuTrad offers transparent pricing (€27 / Page), with no hidden fees, and a free online quote.

Why choose DocuTrad for your official translations?

DocuTrad assists naturalization candidates and their lawyers in preparing files that comply with prefectural requirements.

Our strengths:

  • Network of sworn translators accredited to the competent Courts of Appeal
  • Translations recognized by prefectures and embassies
  • Fast delivery (24 to 48 hours) in signed and sealed PDF format
  • DHL paper option with original stamp
  • Secure payment via Shopify or PayPal
  • Total respect for confidentiality and of the data protection.

FAQ

1. Do all documents in the naturalization file need to be translated?
 Yes, all foreign documents must be accompanied by a certified translation to be admissible.

2. Can I translate my documents myself?
 No, only a translation certified by a licensed translator is valid.

3. How long is the translation valid for?
 Indefinitely, as long as the original document remains valid.

4. Are DocuTrad translations accepted by all prefectures?
Yes, they are recognized by all prefectures and consulates.

5. How long does it take to obtain citizenship?
The administration has 18 months to reply, 12 months if you have been resident in France for at least 10 years.

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