Thinking about settling in France from 2026? Here’s what you need to know.

If you participated in our last webinar, you know that we discussed when French becomes mandatory for your stay in France and the republican integration program with the famous Republican Integration Contract (CIR), a key step for newcomers to France.

Here’s the important part:

• The Republican Integration Contract (CIR) is a program newcomers must sign upon arrival in France. This program includes mandatory civic training lasting a few half-days and French language training if you need it.
• The CIR is not considered official proof of your French language level. You’ll still need to provide separate certification (such as TCF or DELF) for a 10-year residence card or naturalization.
• ​Not everyone is concerned - for example student, visitor, intern visa holders are usually exempt.

Starting in 2026, the CIR will also include a mandatory questionnaire covering the topics from your integration sessions:

• Principles and values of the Republic
• Rights and duties of life in France
• French history, geography, culture, and institutions

✅ To pass, you’ll need at least 80% correct answers.

If you score lower, don’t panic: according to the Law, you can retake the test at any time until you succeed.

Why this matters: Passing the questionnaire will become a mandatory condition to obtain your multi-year residence card or your 10-year card.

And this requirement comes in addition to the higher language level now expected as of 2026:

• A2 level for the multi-year residence card
• B1 level for the 10-year residence card

Missed the webinar?

If you still have questions about the French language, language levels, and how to prove your level, you can find the best moments from the replay here: