New residence permit rules in France as of January 1, 2026

The regulatory framework is becoming clearer for foreign nationals. Decree No. 2025-647 of July 15, 2025 tightens the conditions for issuing residence permits upon first entry. For all applications filed from January 1, 2026 onwards, applicants for a multi-year residence permit (2 to 4 years) will now have to prove a language level of A2, while those applying for a resident card (10 years) will have to have reached level B1. These requirements apply only upon first entry to the title: for example, the holder of a two-year card does not need to justify the A2 level to renew it, but will have to validate the B1 level if they wish to obtain a ten-year title.

In addition to the language barrier, the law creates a mandatory civic exam aimed at assessing knowledge of the fundamental principles necessary for life in France. This exam, which must be taken before the application is filed, consists of a 40-question multiple-choice questionnaire on the values of the Republic, history, geography or rights and duties. To pass this 45-minute test, the applicant must obtain at least 32 correct answers.

However, not all applicants are subject to these new constraints. Foreign nationals over the age of 65, as well as those with a medical accommodation or exemption, are exempt from the language level and civic exam requirements. In addition, certain third-country nationals covered by specific bilateral agreements, such as Algerian nationals, are exempt from these obligations. Tunisian nationals are also among the exceptions mentioned regarding the civic exam. For other foreign residents who are not citizens of European Union member states, these new provisions will apply fully to permits whose validity begins after January 1, 2026.