France will introduce a new civic exam (l’examen civique) from 1 January 2026 for many foreign nationals applying for long-term residence or French nationality. This reform comes from the law adopted on 26 January 2024, designed to strengthen integration, civic knowledge, and understanding of French society.
The purpose of the exam is simple: applicants must show they understand the values of the French Republic, institutions, rights, duties, history, and daily life in France.
If you are planning to study, work, settle, or become a French citizen, this guide explains everything clearly.
📚 Topics Covered
What Is the New Civic Exam in France?
The French Civic Exam 2026 is a compulsory test for certain residence permit and nationality applications. It checks your understanding of:
✅ French values and principles
✅ Democracy and institutions
✅ Rights and responsibilities
✅ French history and culture
✅ Everyday life in France
⚠️ Important: This exam is not a French language test. It only checks civic knowledge.
(Separate language level requirements also change in 2026.)
Who Must Take the Civic Exam in France?
You must pass the civic exam before applying for:
✅ Multi-Year Residence Permit (2 to 4 years)
First application for a Carte de séjour pluriannuelle
✅ 10-Year Resident Card
First application for a Carte de résident
✅ French Nationality by Naturalisation
Applicants must pass the exam before the nationality interview.
⚠️ Do not submit a naturalisation application on ANEF before passing the exam.
Who Is Exempt from the Civic Exam?
You do not need to take the exam if you are:
✅ Over 65 years old
✅ Talent Residence Permit Holder
All Talent categories (formerly Passeport Talent)
✅ 1-Year Temporary Permit Holder
Such as:
✅ French Nationality by Declaration
For example:
✅ International Protection Beneficiaries
✅ Covered by Special Bilateral Agreements
✅ Renewal Applicants
If you already hold a multi-year permit or resident card and are only renewing it.
Special Rules for Disability or Health Conditions
Applicants with a disability or long-term health condition may:
✅ Receive special exam arrangements
✅ Be exempt from some requirements
A medical certificate is required.
How the France Civic Exam Works
Exam Format
Feature
Details
Test Type
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ)
Questions
40
Time Limit
45 minutes
Device
Computer or Tablet
Language
French
Score Needed
32/40 (80%)
Each question has 4 options and only 1 correct answer.
Correct
answer = 1 point
Wrong / No answer = 0 points
Difficulty Level
The exam level depends on your application type:
France Civic Exam Syllabus (Official Themes)
The exam is based on 5 main themes.
1️⃣ Principles & Values of the French Republic (11 Questions)
Includes:
2️⃣ Political & Institutional System (6 Questions)
Includes:
3️⃣ Rights & Duties (11 Questions)
Includes:
4️⃣ History, Geography & Culture (8 Questions)
Includes:
5️⃣ Living in French Society (4 Questions)
Includes:
When and Where to Take the Civic Exam?
The exam certificate becomes mandatory from 1 January 2026.
Test centres begin opening from the end of 2025.
Approved Exam Centres
Two organizations are approved by the French Ministry of the Interior:
✅ Paris Chamber of Commerce (CCIP)
✅ France Éducation International (FEI)
More centres and registration details will be published officially.
How Much Does the Civic Exam Cost?
💰 Fees depend on the test centre.
There is no single national fixed fee. Prices may vary by city and centre.
Can You Retake the Exam?
✅ Yes
Once you pass:
✅ Certificate does not expire
How to Prepare for the France Civic Exam
Official preparation resources include:
✅ Full syllabus
✅ Study sheets
✅ Official question lists
✅ Practice material
✅ Registration guidance
Important Reminder for 2025 Applicants
These new rules apply to applications submitted from 1 January 2026.
If your application is submitted before 31 December 2025, old rules may still apply.
Why This Exam Matters
The French government wants future residents and citizens to better understand:
Strong preparation can improve your success and speed up your immigration process.
The new France Civic Exam 2026 is an important change for anyone planning long-term life in France. If you are a student, worker, spouse, or future citizen, start preparing early.
EduxSkills will continue helping international students and expats understand every visa, residency, tax, and life update in France.
Sample 40 Practice Questions Blog
France Civic Exam Practice Test 2026 – 40 Questions with Answers
Principles & Values
Institutions
Rights & Duties
History & Culture
Daily Life in France
Mixed Questions
