Thinking about moving to France, or renewing your residency permit, in 2026? Then it’s time to brush up on your French. From January 2026, new rules are coming into effect that introduce language requirements to live in France, alongside a mandatory civic exam for many expats.
If you’re asking yourself, “Do I need to speak French to live in France?”, the short answer is: yes, at least at a basic level. But don’t worry, we’ll walk you through the key rules, exemptions, and how to prepare for success.
Table of Contents
What’s new from January 2026?
From 2026, most non-EU expats applying for multi-year residence permits (carte de séjour pluriannuelle) must prove:
- A2-level French proficiency
- Successful completion of a civic exam (QCM)
This change affects those applying under Article L.433-4 of the French Code of Entry and Stay of Foreigners. It applies to a wide range of visa holders, including family reunification, private and family life, and most non-Talent residency cards.
What about Talent Permit holders?
Good news for professionals and entrepreneurs: if you’re applying under a Talent residence permit (such as Talent – salarié qualifié or Talent – projet économique), these language and civic requirements do not apply at the initial stage.
Talent Permit holders are also exempt from signing the Contrat d’Intégration Républicaine (CIR) when they first arrive.
But a word of caution:
If you later apply for a 10-year resident card, you will need to show:
- B1-level French
- A pass in the civic knowledge QCM
So even if you’re exempt now, it’s wise to start learning French early to prepare for long-term residency or citizenship.
What is A2 French level?
The A2 level under the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) is considered elementary or basic conversational French. At this level, you should be able to:
- Understand and use common everyday expressions
- Give and receive basic personal information
- Communicate in simple, routine tasks
You don’t need to be fluent, but you do need to show you can handle basic daily interactions in French.
Tip: Start with beginner courses or apps like TV5Monde, Alliance Française, or Duolingo. You might be closer to A2 than you think.
What if you don’t meet the language requirement?
If you don’t yet meet the A2 French requirement or fail the civic test, you won’t be automatically denied residency. The Préfecture may instead grant you a one-year renewable permit while you work toward compliance.
You can then reapply for your multi-year residence card once you’ve:
✅ Passed the A2 French requirement
✅ Completed the civic exam (QCM)
This process is common among expats and offers flexibility while maintaining your legal status.
What is the Civic Exam (QCM)?
New from 2026, the civic exam (QCM) is a multiple-choice test required for:
- Multi-year residence permits (pass rate: 80% correct)
- 10-year resident cards (must pass + prove B1 French)
The test covers key principles from the Contrat d’Intégration Républicaine (CIR), including:
- The French legal system and secularism (laïcité)
- Equality and civic duties
- National values and social norms
- The French flag, anthem, and other republican symbols
It’s not just symbolic, this is a real exam with preparation required. The OFII provides learning materials and prep courses for free or at low cost.
Who is exempt?
Certain individuals are exempt from language or civic test requirements, including:
- Talent Permit holders (for the first permit only)
- People over 65 years old (civic test exemption only)
- Individuals with disabilities or serious health conditions
- UK nationals covered under the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement
- EU/EEA citizens
Not sure if you’re exempt? Always verify with your local Préfecture.
How to prove your language level
To meet the language requirements in France, casual conversation won’t cut it. You’ll need to provide standardised proof of your French level, such as:
- TCF IRN (Test de connaissance du français – Intégration, Résidence et Nationalité)
- DELF A2 (Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française – Level A2)
- Certificate from an OFII-approved language school
Other acceptable methods include:
- Enrolment in certified French courses
- Proof of completed hours in a structured language program
- Test results from home-country institutions recognised by French authorities
Why learning French matters even beyond the legal stuff
Even if you’re exempt from the 2026 requirements, learning French is one of the best investments you can make in your life in France.
It opens doors to:
- Better healthcare (yes, most doctors speak French)
- Easier paperwork and Prefecture visits
- Social connection with locals
- Long-term residency or naturalisation
FAQs: Language requirements in France for expats (2026)
Do I need to speak French when applying for a long-stay visa in France?
No, French language skills are not required when applying for a long-stay visa (visa de long séjour). However, if you plan to stay long-term and later apply for a multi-year residence permit, you will need to meet the A2-level French requirement starting in 2026. It’s a good idea to begin learning French early, especially if you plan to settle or apply for permanent residency later on.
Do I need to speak French to live in France as an expat?
If you’re applying for a multi-year residence card from 2026 onward, you will need A2-level French. Talent Visa holders are exempt at first but still need French for long-term stays.
What’s the difference between A2 and B1 level French?
A2 is basic daily interaction; B1 requires you to hold more complex conversations and handle work or school interactions. B1 is required for 10-year cards and citizenship.
What if I fail the language or civic test?
You may be granted a one-year temporary card and given time to improve. You can reapply once you meet the criteria.
Are UK or EU citizens affected by the 2026 rule?
No. UK nationals under the Brexit WA and EU/EEA citizens are not subject to the A2 or civic test requirements.
How can I prepare for the French civic exam (QCM)?
OFII provides study materials, practice exams, and workshops. Language schools also offer integrated courses with civic modules.
Final notes
The new language requirements to live in France from 2026 may seem like an added hurdle, but they’re also a helpful nudge toward integration and long-term success.
By starting your French learning journey early, registering for the right courses, and preparing for the civic test, you’ll be well-positioned for smooth renewals, deeper connections, and even future citizenship.
Planning a move to France or just thinking about it?
Book a free 30-minute call with our team for personalised guidance on relocating to France. 👉 Schedule your call here
Not ready for a call? No problem. Explore our free resources to learn at your own pace:
📚 Browse the blog for expert tips
🎧 Listen to our podcast for real stories and insights
Wherever you are in your France journey, we’re here to help.
