NATURALISATION BY DECREE Any individual with a foreign nationality has the right to obtain French nationality through the process of naturalization by decree. This request consists of a double examination with regards to receivability (civil code) and opportunity (conditions imposed by the government). The conditions legal are the following: • Be in possession of a “titre de sejour” (limited residence permit) with the exception of the European Economic Community • Reside continuously and regularly in France in the last 5 years • Have immediate family in France (spouse and children) • Have material interests in France (source of income) • To be able to comfortable converse in French • Accept and understand the rules and values of France • Be an individual of good conduct and sound moral character Exceptions: The period of residence is reduced from 5 years to 2 years if the candidate has passed 2 years of superior studies in France.
Vis as & Natur a l is at ion
The delay is wavered if:
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• The applicant originates from a country where the official language is French and his or her maternal language is French or he or she can show proof of having spent a minimum 5 years at a French language learning establishment. • The applicant was born before independence in a country that was previously a French sovereignty. • The applicant is a refugee. The application of naturalization by decree is made at the Préfecture in Tulle.