Moving to France just got much harder. On January 1, 2026, the French government made major changes to their immigration rules. These changes mean that foreigners now have to meet much higher standards to live in the country long-term. As leading immigration consultants for France, we want to help you understand these new barriers.
The Mandatory Civic Exam
One of the biggest shocks for 2026 is the new mandatory civic exam. If you are applying for your first multi-year permit or a 10-year resident card, you must pass this test. It is a digital exam with 40 multiple-choice questions about French history, values, and culture. To pass, you must score at least 80%, that is 32 correct answers out of 40.
Higher Language Standards
French language rules have also become much stricter. For a 10-year resident card, you now need to reach a B1 level in French. If you want to become a French citizen, the requirement has jumped to a B2 level. There are also no longer age exemptions for older people applying for citizenship, so everyone must prove their skills.
Massive Fee Increases in May
A second wave of changes starts on May 1, 2026, when application fees go up significantly. Applying for French citizenship will now cost €255, a huge jump from the old €55 fee. Standard residence permits will cost €300 or €350, and even small changes like updating your home address will now cost €50.
Impact on Students and the "Talent" Exception
Students from outside the European Union face a massive tuition hike. Annual bachelor’s degree fees at public universities have risen to €2,895, while master’s degrees now cost €3,941. However, there is some good news for highly skilled professionals. The "Talent Passport" status is mostly exempt from these new exam and language tests, making it the best way to move to France today.
With administrative backlogs reaching up to 10 months in some parts of France, it is important to start your application early. Our team at Irish Expert acts as your reliable immigration consultants for France, helping you prepare for these new exams and managing your paperwork to avoid stressful delays. Reach out to our specialists today to protect your future abroad.