Citizenship by marriage in France

Your complete guide to securing your french citizenship.

What is the French Citizenship by Marriage ?

French citizenship by marriage is a legal process that allows a foreign spouse of a French citizen to acquire French nationality under certain conditions. It’s not automatic and involves an application process.

  • Duration of Marriage:

You must have been married for at least 4 years.

If you have lived together in France continuously for at least 3 years, you may apply after 3 years of marriage.

If you lived abroad, the French spouse must have registered regularly with the French consulate during that time.

  • Proof of Genuine Life Together:

You must demonstrate that you and your spouse have lived together continuously and genuinely since the marriage.

  • French Language Proficiency:

You must prove your French language skills (spoken and written) at B1 level (CEFR scale).

  • No Criminal Record:

You must not have any serious criminal convictions in France or abroad.

  • Valid Residence Status (if applying in France):

You must be legally residing in France at the time of the application.

You must submit a declaration of acquisition of French nationality through marriage.

The application is made at the local prefecture (in France) or French consulate (if abroad).

It includes documents like marriage certificate, proof of cohabitation, language certificate, ID documents, etc.

It can take 12 to 18 months or more, depending on your situation and where you apply.

Ready to navigate the complexities of obtaining citizenship by marriage in France?
Contact our trusted partners—experienced immigration lawyers—for personalized guidance, expert advice, and professional assistance with your French nationality application. Let us help make your journey to citizenship smooth and successful. Reach out to us now to get started!

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How can we help you get French citizenship by marriage?

We work closely with a network of trusted attorneys who can assist you with every step of the process, including:

Personalized Eligibility Review

An immigration lawyer will carefully assess your personal situation—family background, residency history, marital status, and legal documents—to determine if you meet the conditions for acquiring French nationality. This initial review ensures your case is well-positioned under current French nationality laws.

Strategic Document Preparation

You’ll receive expert help gathering the necessary documents, such as birth and marriage certificates, proof of residency in France, language proficiency, and evidence of integration. If applicable, your lawyer will assist with preparing declarations or proving family ties to France.

Step-by-Step Application Filing

From filling out the nationality request form to submitting your file to the relevant French authorities and tracking the status, your lawyer will guide you through each step—ensuring your application is complete and properly presented.

Navigating French Administrative Procedures

French nationality procedures can be slow and technical. Your lawyer will help you handle all required steps, including language interviews, prefecture appointments, and communication with the Ministry of the Interior.

Ongoing Monitoring and Legal Follow-up

Your case will be closely followed throughout the process. If any clarifications or additional documents are requested, your lawyer will respond promptly to avoid delays or negative outcomes.

Post-Acquisition Support

Once your nationality is granted, your lawyer can assist with the final steps: obtaining your French passport, registering your new status, and understanding your rights and duties as a French (and dual) citizen.

Appeal Assistance if Rejected

If your application is denied, your lawyer can analyze the decision, help strengthen your case, and file an appeal or prepare a new, improved application.

Ready to apply for dual citizenship in France?
Book a consultation with our trusted legal partners and get tailored, expert support to guide you through every step of the nationality process.

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6 Great Reasons to Choose France 🇫🇷

1. World-Class Healthcare

France offers one of the best healthcare systems in the world—affordable, accessible, and high-quality, even for newcomers with the right residency status.

2. Exceptional Quality of Life

From charming villages to bustling cities, France combines a slower pace of life with modern comforts, excellent public services, and beautiful surroundings.

3. Rich Culture and History

France is a global cultural hub, home to world-famous museums, historic architecture, festivals, and a deep appreciation for art, fashion, and literature.

4. Gourmet Food and Wine

Enjoy world-renowned cuisine, daily fresh markets, and an incredible variety of regional wines and cheeses—part of everyday life, not just for tourists.

5. Strong Public Education and Family Benefits

France provides high-quality public education, generous parental leave, childcare support, and family subsidies—ideal for raising children.

No. Marriage to a French citizen does not automatically grant you French nationality. You must apply through a formal declaration process and meet specific legal requirements.

No. You must prove continuous cohabitation with your French spouse up to the time of your application.

Typical documents include:

  • Your marriage certificate (less than 3 months old);

  • Proof of your spouse’s French nationality;

  • Proof of joint residence (bills, tax returns, rental contracts);

  • Language certificate (DELF B1 or equivalent);

  • Your birth certificate (with translation and apostille/legalization if needed);

  • ID documents, and more depending on your situation.

If you’re living in France: at your local prefecture.

If you’re living abroad: at the French consulate in your country of residence.

Yes, in most cases. A personal interview is conducted to assess your language level, knowledge of France, and the authenticity of your relationship.

Yes. Common reasons for refusal include:

  • Insufficient language skills;

  • Lack of cohabitation;

  • Criminal record;

  • Fraud or false documents.

You will be notified officially and can appeal the decision.

No. France allows dual (or multiple) nationality, so you can usually keep your original nationality unless your country of origin forbids it.

After your application is approved, you’ll receive a decree of nationality. You will then be eligible to apply for a French passport and national ID card.

It’s not mandatory, but highly recommended. French immigration procedures can be complex and vary by consulate. A lawyer ensures that your application is complete, compliant, and submitted properly, reducing the risk of delays or rejection. LegalMova connects you with vetted immigration experts to guide you from start to finish.

Need-to-Know Info

Your case handled by Sarah, our french partner attorney

At LegalMova, we see immigration not just as a service, but as a journey we take with you. What drives us is helping you experience the peace of mind that comes with expert legal support—whether you’re planning to relocate to France, invest, or build a new chapter of your life. Our dedicated team of partner lawyers is here to make that transition smooth, secure, and successful.

Your case handled by Sarah, our french partner attorney

At LegalMova, we see immigration not just as a service, but as a journey we take with you. What drives us is helping you experience the peace of mind that comes with expert legal support—whether you’re planning to relocate to France, invest, or build a new chapter of your life. Our dedicated team of partner lawyers is here to make that transition smooth, secure, and successful.

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