11/06/2024
Question that inspired this post:
Hello, I will live in France for 5 years in one week. Do I have to start proceedings myself to obtain French nationality or do those lovely people come and ask me? Brand new here so thanks in advance
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Based on the information provided in the sources, you must initiate the process to obtain French nationality after living in France for 5 years. The French authorities do not automatically grant citizenship or come to ask you to apply. Here are the key points:
After residing in France legally and continuously for 5 years, you become eligible to apply for French citizenship through naturalization (naturalisation par décret).
You must apply yourself to the French authorities, providing various documents to prove your eligibility. This is not an automatic process.
The typical documents required include a valid passport, proof of residence in France for 5 years, proof of stable income/resources, a clean criminal record, and evidence of integration into French society (e.g., French language proficiency of at least B1 level).
The application process involves submitting your file at the prefecture, attending an interview to assess your assimilation, and potentially taking a French language test if you cannot provide acceptable certification.
If your application is approved, your name will be included in a naturalization decree published in the Official Journal (Journal Officiel). This can take up to 18 months or longer after submitting your initial application.
Once the decree is published, you will be officially recognized as a French citizen and can apply for a French birth certificate, identity card, and passport.
So in summary, after living in France for 5 years, you will need to gather all the necessary documents and actively apply for French citizenship through naturalization. The French authorities do not automatically initiate this process for you.
Let me know if you need any clarification or have additional questions!
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