Can one have multiple nationalities in France?

Dual nationality is a reality for many citizens living between two countries.
In France, it is perfectly possible to have several nationalities , but this situation remains governed by precise rules.

DocuTrad explains the legal conditions , rights and obligations related to multiple nationalities, as well as the documents to be translated for your naturalization or civil status recognition procedures.

What is dual or multiple nationality?

Dual nationality refers to the fact that the same person possesses the nationality of two (or more) States .
It can be obtained by:

• birth ( child born to parents of different nationalities)
  
• the wedding
  
• naturalization​
  
• or lineage (through a parent or grandparent)
  

In France, dual nationality has been permitted by law since 1973. This means that a French citizen can acquire another nationality without losing their own .

Under what circumstances can one obtain multiple nationalities?

1. By birth

A child born in France to foreign parents can obtain French nationality upon reaching the age of majority, while retaining that of their parents.

2. Through marriage

A foreigner married to a French citizen can apply for French nationality after 4 years of marriage (5 years if he does not reside in France).

3. Through naturalization

A foreign national who has been residing in France legally for at least 5 years can become French by naturalization decree , while retaining their original nationality if their country allows it.

4. By descent

A child born abroad to a French parent is automatically French , even if he/she also holds the nationality of the country of birth.

Rights and obligations related to dual nationality

The advantages

• Freedom of movement and settlement in several countries
  
• Access to expanded civic rights (voting, work, property, education).
  
• Possibility of benefiting from multiple consular protections .
  

The obligations

• Respect the national laws of each country of which you are a citizen.
  
• In the case of dual French-foreign citizenship, France always considers the citizen to be French first and foremost on its territory.
  
• Some countries (such as Germany or Japan) restrict or prohibit dual citizenship: it is therefore important to check local laws
  

Administrative procedures and documents to be translated

The recognition or application for a second nationality often involves the presentation of official foreign documents.
These documents must be translated by a sworn translator to be accepted by prefectures, courts or embassies.

Examples of documents to be translated:

• Birth certificate
  
• Marriage certificate
  
• Criminal record
  
• Language diploma or certificate
  
• Identity document
  
• Judgment of naturalization or parentage
  

Ordering a certified translation for a naturalization application

DocuTrad indicative prices:

• Standard translation: €26 / page
  
• Marriage certificate: €34 / page
  
• Death certificate: €30 / page
  
• Invoice or administrative document: €27 / page
  
• Apostille: €15 / document
  
• DHL paper shipment: €15
  

All our translations are delivered within 24 to 48 hours maximum and are recognized by French and foreign administrations.

Why use DocuTrad?

DocuTrad is a French platform specializing in the certified translation of official documents for all your nationality, marriage or naturalization procedures.

Our commitments:

• Certified translators accredited to the Courts of Appeal.
  
• Legal compliance guaranteed for all translations.
  
• Express delivery (24 to 48 hours) in sealed PDF format.
  
• DHL paper option to obtain signed and stamped originals.
  
• Absolute confidentiality and GDPR protection.
  
• Secure payment via Shopify or PayPal.
  

Each translation is checked and delivered with a sworn statement if required.

FAQ

1. Does France allow triple nationality?
Yes, as long as the other countries involved do not object.

2. Do I have to renounce my original nationality to become French?
No, France allows you to retain your original nationality.

3. What documents do I need to have translated for a naturalization application?
Civil status documents, criminal records, diplomas and language certificates.

4. Are DocuTrad translations accepted by the prefectures?
Yes, they are recognized by all French and foreign administrations.

5. How long will it take to get my translations?
Within 24 to 48 hours, depending on the language and the size of the file.