“Un petit test pour un grand séjour”
An overview of the new French Visa and Residency Language Requirements
With all the recent headlines about France’s new immigration law, you’ve probably heard that a French language proficiency test will be required starting January 1st, 2026. But who does it actually apply to? Which level of French is required? And what happens if you’re not quite fluent yet?
Until now, language proficiency was often a suggested part of integration—but not necessarily required upfront. However, as part of the new immigration law (Loi n° 2024‑42 du 26 janvier 2024), those under 65 and applying for specific residency cards will need to pass a certified exam.
We’ll go over what you need to know, certain exemptions and how to prepare with practical advice and resources.
Who will need to take the language test?
According to the French government’s official website Service Public, these are the types of cards affected:
Resident Cards : A2
If you are a spouse of French citizen
Parent of a French Child
Individuals seeking Family reunification or a resident of long-term EU card holder
Carte de séjour pluriannuelle (multi-year) : A2
This type of card is issued after 4-5 years of residing in France
French level required: A2 level (Basic level)
Test type examples: TCF, TEF, DELF A2
Required after 1-5 years in France
Carte de résident (10-year card) : B1
French level required: B1 (Intermediate level)
Test type examples: TCF, DELF B1
Required after 5+ years residency or via family/spouse
French Citizenship (Naturalisation) : B2
French level required: B2 (Upper intermediate level)
Test type examples: TCF, DELF B2
Language test mandatory
Those applying for their 1st Residency card : A2
You will need to prove a level of French language proficiency that is greater or equal to a level A2 of the Common European Framework of Reference (CERF) of the Council of Europe.
This does not apply to applicants for:
Short-stay or long-stay visas
Your first carte de séjour (1-year)
Renewals of your 1-year cards — up to 3 times maximum
If you’re applying for a short-stay or long-stay visa (VLS-TS), you will not be required to take the test. Not for your first year in France.
Are there any exemptions?
Yes, several.
You may be exempt from the language test if you:
Are 65 or older (for residency — not for citizenship)
Have a documented medical condition (with certification from your French doctor)
Hold a visitor, student, or temporary worker visa and aren’t applying for a long-term card
Are under the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement. UK nationals residing in France before Brexit under the Withdrawal Agreement Residence Permit (WARP) are not subject to the increased language requirements unless they apply for French citizenship (a level of B2 will be required), yet not when renewing their residency permit.
Already have a carte de résident or pluriannuelle from before the law changes
Levels of language proficiency explained:
A1 (Beginner) - Basic understanding and simple phrases and greetings
A2 (Elementary) - Ability to understand and use common everyday expressions and routine phrases related to daily life
B1 (Intermediate) - Comfortable handling most situations you may encounter while living or traveling in France. Can write or speak about familiar subjects in a simple, connected way
B2 (Upper Intermediate) - Can grasp the main points of complex texts and communicate with ease and spontaneity in everyday conversations
Types of Tests:
You must take a certified exam that evaluates the four key skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. There are many accredited centres across France that provide these exams.
Here are the main options:
TCF (Test de Connaissance du Français) Useful those applying for or renewing a multi-year residence permit “carte de séjour pluriannuelle”.
Accepted for A2 (residency) and B1/B2 (residency or citizenship)
Quick results (2–3 weeks)
Computer-based
Format: Multiple choice + oral + short writing.
The test is offered in many certified centers across France and abroad, typically several times per month
Valid for 2 years
TEF (Test d’Évaluation du Français) Useful for applicants for the carte de séjour or citizenship application (naturalisation).
Alternative to TCF, accepted by French authorities
Also covers A2 to B2 levels
Quick results (2-3 weeks)
Computer-based
The exam is scored on the CEFR scale (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages)
Valid for 2 years
DELF (Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française) A2 / B1 / B2. Official diploma awarded by the French Ministry of Education to certify the French-language skills of non-native speakers. It’s one of the most widely recognized qualifications for proving your level of French.
Slightly more structured and formal than TCF or TEF
Paper based and more academic style exam
Results take longer (4–6 weeks)
Also fully accepted by the préfecture for A2 requirements
Valid for life (unlike TCF and TEF, which expire in 2 years)
What if I don’t pass the test?
Don’t panic. You can retake the test, and we strongly recommend sitting it well in advance of your application deadline. This gives you time to revise and rebook if needed.
What are the costs?
Most exams cost between €100–150
Preparation courses may cost extra
If you work or are self-employed in France, you can likely use Mon Compte Formation to pay for both the test and classes.
How to Prepare
If you’re planning to apply for residency or citizenship in 2025 or 2026, here’s what we recommend:
Find out which level applies to you (A2, B1, or B2)
Decide which test format you prefer (TCF, TEF, DELF)
Contact the center of your choice: Ask about available test dates, fees, registration process.
Start preparing early: Consider preparation classes
Register early: Tests fill quickly—A2/B1 slots sell out, especially during summer and autumn sessions
Some Resources:
Official Resources:
France Visas Official Website: france-visas.gouv.fr
French Office for Immigration and Integration (OFII): ofii.fr
Ministry of the Interior: immigration.interieur.gouv.fr
Final Thoughts:
French bureaucracy is complex. Adding a language exam on top of an already paper-heavy visa process might feel like too much. But it’s not insurmountable.
At The Relocation Company International, we help you prepare—not just to tick boxes, but to feel confident and capable in your new environment. This isn’t about mastering French literature. It’s about showing you can order a coffee, make an appointment, or ask for directions—and do it with enough ease to call France home.
Contact us for personalized assistance.
You can also refer to our website The Relocation Company International, LinkedIn or Instagram