Civic Examination in France: Framework, Procedures and Key Considerations

As part of the strengthening of France’s republican integration policy, the country has introduced a mandatory civic examination for certain foreign nationals wishing to settle in France on a long-term basis or apply for French nationality. It is now required for applications for multi-year residence permits submitted by certain foreign nationals.

Provided for by the ministerial order of 10 October 2025, this examination aims to assess the civic, institutional and social knowledge necessary for effective integration into French society.

The civic examination is an official mandatory test based on a national knowledge framework. It forms part of the existing integration mechanisms and now constitutes a prerequisite for certain major administrative procedures relating to residence and nationality.

Who is concerned by the civic examination?

The civic examination must be successfully completed by non-European Union foreign nationals who submit:

• a first application for a multi-year residence permit;
• a first application for a resident permit (excluding cases covered by a bilateral agreement);
• an application for naturalisation.

From 1 January 2026, the certificate confirming successful completion of the examination will be required for any first issuance of a multi-year residence permit or a resident permit.

However, the civic examination is not required in the following cases:

• renewal of a multi-year residence permit;
• renewal of a resident permit.

Practical arrangements for the civic examination

The examination takes the form of a multiple-choice questionnaire (MCQ) consisting of 40 questions, written in French. Each question has only one correct answer.

The scoring system is straightforward:

• 1 point for each correct answer
• 0 points for an incorrect answer or no answer

The maximum duration of the test is 45 minutes.

The examination is conducted digitally in a centre accredited by the Ministry of the Interior. Specific accommodations may be provided for candidates with disabilities or health conditions requiring particular support.

Content and topics assessed in the civic examination

L’examen civique couThe civic examination covers five main themes, with a balanced distribution of questions.

1. Principles and values of the Republic (11 questions)
   This section focuses on the motto and symbols of the French Republic, secularism (laïcité), and practical scenarios related to rights, freedoms, equality and fraternity.
   
2. Institutional and political system (6 questions)
   Questions relate to democracy, voting rights, the organisation of the institutions of the Republic, and European institutions.
   
3. Rights and duties (11 questions)
   This theme addresses fundamental rights, the obligations of individuals residing in France and practical situations related to compliance with laws and collective life.
   
4. History, geography and culture (8 questions)
   This section assesses knowledge relating to historical landmarks, geography and French territories, as well as French cultural heritage.
   
5. Living in French society (4 questions)
   Questions concern daily life in France, including residence and settlement, access to healthcare, employment, parental authority and the education system.

It should be noted that the knowledge questions are publicly available and accessible on the website of the Ministry of the Interior.

What are the success criteria for the examination?

The pass threshold is set at 80% correct answers.

In practical terms:

• for a multi-year residence permit or resident permit: 32 correct answers out of 40 are required;
• for a naturalisation application: the same 80% threshold applies.

When and where can the examination be taken?

The civic examination must be taken before submitting the application for a residence permit or naturalisation.

It takes place in a centre accredited by the Ministry of the Interior. The official list of centres is available on the website formation-civique.interieur.gouv.fr.

Exempted statuses and points of attention

Certain categories of individuals are exempt from the civic examination, including beneficiaries of international protection and nationals covered by certain bilateral agreements.

Regulatory monitoring is also envisaged for certain statuses, particularly Talent permits, which may not be subject to the requirement.

Regulatory developments are currently under consideration, particularly regarding Talent statuses, making careful regulatory monitoring essential.

Conclusion

The civic examination is now a structuring step in long-term residence pathways and access to French nationality. Beyond its mandatory nature, it forms part of a broader approach aimed at strengthening understanding of the values, rights and duties that underpin French society.

Proper anticipation and appropriate support are essential to ensure success and to secure the administrative procedures of the individuals concerned.