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Language requirements for stay, residency, and naturalisation

French levels required (A2/B1/B2) for multi-year residence permits, the 10-year resident card, and naturalisation; accepted exams: TCF IRN, DELF/DALF, DCL. Updated 2026.

The essentials in 30 seconds

  • From 01 January 2026, the expected levels rise progressively: A2 for the multi-year residence permit, B1 for the resident card, B2 for naturalisation.

  • Recognised tests/credentials: TCF IRN, DELF/DALF, DCL (national diplomas, unlimited validity).

  • Possible exemptions in certain cases (disability, studies completed in French, etc.).

Which level for which status?

Multi-year
residence permit

  • ​​Expected CEFR level: A2

  • Reference: TCF IRN update and new requirements to be applied by 01/01/2026.

Resident card
(10 years)

  • ​​Expected CEFR level: B1

  • Reference: Level raised to B1 announced by FEI, rollout by 01/01/2026. (As of now, some official pages still mention A2; they will be updated by future decrees and guidance.)

Naturalisation

  • ​​Expected CEFR level: B2

  • Reference: Decree no. 2025-648: higher level from 01/01/2026. Until it enters into force, the official page still states B1.

*Practical note: 

During the transition, TCF IRN attestations obtained before the increase remain valid until their expiry, provided the attained level meets the requirement.

Which exams or proofs are accepted?

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TCF IRN

(Integration, Residence, Nationality)

Assesses listening/reading/speaking/writing. Since 12/05/2025, assessment up to B2, total duration 1 h 35. Valid for 2 years.

DELF-B1-VISUEL.jpg

DELF/DALF

（National diplomas）

Unlimited validity; levels from A1 to C2. Recognised for stay/resident/naturalisation procedures.

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DCL

(Language Competency Diploma)

National professional diploma (adults), unlimited validity, calibrated from A2 → C1 (can cover B1/B2 depending on performance); workplace-style exam (~2 h 30).

*Other evidence (case-by-case): French diplomas at RNCP level 3 or higher, etc.

Which exam to choose: TCF IRN, DELF, or DCL?

Waiting Room

TCF

  • Best if: you have a tight deadline (permit renewal, naturalisation).

  • Strengths: frequent sessions, quick results, IRN-oriented format.

  • Good to know: valid for 2 years (plan for renewal if needed).

DELF/DALF

  • Best if: you want a lifetime diploma (studies, work, long-term procedures).

  • Strengths: clear level targets (A1 → B2), international recognition.

  • Good to know: you choose the level when you register (aim right).

DCL (FLE)

  • Best if: your level is uncertain, or you need French for professional use.

  • Strengths: lifetime diploma; a single exam awards A2 → C1 based on performance; task-based, workplace scenarios.

  • Good to know: fewer centres/sessions than the TCF; results can be slower.

Exemptions and special cases

  • Health/disability: reasonable adjustments or exemption with a compliant medical certificate.

  • Naturalisation: limited exemptions (e.g., programme taught in French in a listed country plus ENIC-NARIC comparability; refugee aged ≥ 70 living in France for ≥ 15 years, etc.).

Prepare with EDAM Paris

Choose the path that suits you: regular French courses or targeted preparation for official exams. Our formats adapt to your level, timetable, and goal (A2 → B2).

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