26/06/2024
Question that inspired this post:
Coucou everyone,
I am married to a French man. We live in Tahiti, Polynesie Française for 4 years. I already have a Carte de Resident from there (10 years).
Recently we moved to France for medical reasons and have plans to stay for good. Currently, I am on a Long Sejour Visa which will expire some time September 2024.
Now, I don’t know how things work here and where I start about processing my papers. And I also don’t know if my 4 years in PF will be credited if I apply for citizenship here. I am supposed to take the exam early next year for citizenship but now I am lost.
If anyone has the same situation, please share some info/advice.
Merci et belle journée.
Answer
"You need 4 years of marriage in France or 5 years of communal married life abroad (unless you are registered with a French consulat abroad, then it's four), and then you can apply for the nationality. Right now the language requirement is B1, but it'll be B2 any time before 2026, watch the news.
As for your long-stay visa, assuming it's VLS-TS vie privée et familiale, you can go to the ANEF sure where you validated it, and apply for a "renouvellement". You'll see a list of documents there, but if you want a residence permit lasting longer than one year, you should have passed through OFII, you'll need their paper on your attendance or exemption."
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Given your situation, you may be eligible to apply for French citizenship by marriage. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:
1. Eligibility Criteria
To apply for French citizenship by marriage, you must meet the following conditions:
Marriage Duration: You must have been married to your French spouse for at least four years.
Residence: You must have lived together continuously in France for at least three years since your marriage. If you lived abroad, your French spouse must have been registered as a French citizen living abroad.
Language Proficiency: You must demonstrate knowledge of the French language at least at the B1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
Criminal Record: You must not have a criminal record in France or your home country.
2. Required Documents
Prepare the following documents for your application:
Valid Passport: Your current passport.
Marriage Certificate: Proof of your marriage, translated and registered in the French civil registry if it took place abroad.
Proof of Spouse’s Citizenship: Your spouse’s French ID or passport.
Proof of Residence: Utility bills, rental contracts, or other documents showing your shared residence.
Language Proficiency Certificate: A certificate proving your French language proficiency (e.g., DELF B1).
Criminal Record Certificate: Certificates from your home country and France.
Proof of Integration: Documents showing your integration into French society, such as employment contracts, volunteer work, or community involvement.
3. Application Process
a. Compile Your Dossier
Gather all the required documents and ensure they are translated into French by a certified translator if necessary.
b. Submit Your Application
Submit your application to the local prefecture or the French consulate if you are applying from abroad. You will need to fill out the Cerfa form n°15277 and provide two signed copies along with your documents.
c. Pay the Application Fee
The application fee is typically around €55, payable via tax stamps.
d. Attend an Interview
You and your spouse will be called for an interview at the prefecture. During the interview, your knowledge of the French language, culture, and society will be assessed, and the authenticity of your marriage will be verified.
4. Processing Time
The processing time for citizenship applications can take up to 18 months. During this period, your application will be reviewed, and you may be asked to provide additional documents or attend further interviews.
5. Citizenship Ceremony
If your application is approved, you will be invited to a citizenship ceremony where you will receive your French nationality certificate.
6. Consider Legal Assistance
While it is possible to complete this process independently, consulting an immigration lawyer can be beneficial, especially if your case has complexities. Lawyers experienced in French nationality law can provide guidance and ensure that your application is complete and accurate.
7. Crediting Time in French Polynesia
Your four years of residence in French Polynesia should be credited towards the residency requirement for naturalization, as French Polynesia is an overseas collectivity of France. However, it is advisable to confirm this with the prefecture handling your application.
Recommended Lawyers
While I cannot recommend specific lawyers, you can search for immigration lawyers in your area or consult the French Bar Association for recommendations.
Look for lawyers specializing in immigration and nationality law with reasonable fees. By following these steps and ensuring you meet all the requirements, you can successfully apply for French citizenship by marriage.
Good luck with your application!
Reach out for questions.
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