New 45-minute civic-knowledge exam becomes obligatory for most multi-year residence cards

Effective 1 January 2026, foreign nationals applying for France’s multi-year ‘carte de séjour’ or 10-year resident card must now pass a 40-question computer-based test covering republican values, institutions, history, geography and everyday life. The change, confirmed by the Interior Ministry in an 8 January circular, standardises an integration requirement that was previously applied unevenly by prefectures.

Candidates need a score of 80 % and receive an ‘Attestation de Réussite’ that must be lodged with their residence-card file. The exam is free, can be retaken indefinitely, and is administered nationwide by approved centres such as the Paris Chamber of Commerce. Exemptions apply to applicants over 65 and holders of Talent Passport permits.



The new hurdle sits atop language rules that were tightened simultaneously: A2 French for multi-year cards, B1 for long-term cards and B2 for naturalisation. Global-mobility providers warn that scheduling an exam slot can now take four-to-six weeks in Paris and Lyon, potentially delaying start dates for transferred staff. Companies are budgeting extra lead-time, sponsoring prep courses and updating onboarding checklists to include the attestation.

Critics say the reform adds administrative burden for lower-income migrants and could spawn a cottage industry of paid coaching services. The government counters that a uniform civic-test framework promotes transparency and integration while deterring fraud.

With more than 260,000 residence-cards issued in 2024, officials expect at least 100,000 civic-exam candidates annually. An online testing option may arrive later in 2026, but for now physical attendance is compulsory—making early booking essential for time-sensitive assignments.