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Getting married is already quite an adventure. But when you decide to apply for French nationality after saying “I do” to a French person, it's another step, not always very romantic, but oh so important. So, what paperwork do you need to prepare to make this request without ending up buried under a mountain of documents? Don't worry, we'll sort it out together, without any hassle (or administrative dictionary at hand).
Because let's not beat around the bush: yes, there are papers to provide. Yes, the French administration loves documents. And yes, you'll have to prove your credentials. But we'll explain everything to you, step by step, so that this process doesn't become a nightmare.
Ah, love. We fall in love, we put on the wedding dress , we get married, and we think that nationality comes with the wedding ring. Well… no. Marrying a French person doesn't magically transform you into a French citizen. You have to go through a well-defined procedure, called the declaration of French nationality by marriage. And that's where the famous papers come into play.
Before you rush out to make photocopies, you first need to make sure you meet the requirements for applying. Yes, because even if you're married, if you don't meet the requirements, it's a no-go. But don't worry, we'll list everything for you.
Because starting to gather documents without knowing if you're eligible is like packing your bags before you know if you're actually going on vacation. Here are the basics:
Being married to a French person (logical, but it's worth saying).
Be married for at least 4 years (or 5 years if you live abroad).
Have a real and stable life community with your spouse.
The spouse must have retained French nationality .
Provide proof of regular residence in France for at least 3 years if you do not live together abroad.
Once you check all those boxes, you're good to go: you can get down to business... and fire up the photocopier.
Are you ready? Got your little cardboard folder? Perfect, let's get started on the list. And be careful, this is serious business: all these documents must be provided in original AND in copy. Better to have too many than not enough. And if you also have a ' Bohemian Wedding Dress ' to add to the list, we're not saying no!
This is the basic document. Cerfa form no. 15277*04 , for those in the know. It's available online on the public service website, so you can fill it out from the comfort of your own couch. No trick fields, but be precise. And avoid crossing things out: this isn't a copy of your baccalaureate.
The marriage certificate is the entry ticket. But be careful, not just any marriage certificate. You need a full marriage certificate , dated less than three months ago , issued by the town hall where you got married .
What if you got married abroad? The marriage must have been recorded in the French civil registry . Otherwise, the administration will look at you as if you were asking for the moon.
No French nationality without proof that the other is French. You will therefore need to provide:
a copy of their French national identity card , or
a certificate of French nationality , or
a birth certificate with mention of nationality .
And there's no cheating here: if your other half has lost their ID card, they will have to get it again before starting your application.
This is THE sensitive point. The administration wants to be sure that you didn't get married just for the paperwork. So you have to prove that you really live together . How? With:
common bills (electricity, water, internet, etc.),
a rental lease or a property deed in both your names ,
joint bank statements ,
tax certificates where you appear together.
Anything that shows you share your daily life, that is. Including your dishwasher struggles and your Netflix series.
Are you ready? Do you have your little cardboard folder? Perfect, let's start the list. And be careful, this is serious business: all these documents must be provided in original AND in copy. It's better to have too many than not enough, a bit like for a Princess Wedding Dress , it's better to plan every detail!
A little classic: proof of address less than 3 months old , such as an EDF bill or a rent receipt. And if you are staying with someone? A sworn statement from the host + their ID + proof of address in their name.
Your full birth certificate , in your original language and translated into French by a certified translator . Don't forget: this is often the one that gets in the way.
What if you're from a country where the administration is even more complicated than in France? You may need to add an apostille or legalization, depending on your country of origin. Make sure you're well informed.
Yes, we've already seen a lot of material. But certain details can make all the difference. Here are the bonus elements not to be missed.
No application without a contribution: you will need to purchase a €55 tax stamp . Don't panic, this can be done online or at a tobacconist's. Keep your receipt.
It's not always required, but writing a letter explaining your approach can work in your favor. No need to be overly lyrical, but show that you value your French nationality, that you feel good about it, and that it's not just a piece of paper for you, a bit like a mermaid wedding dress that symbolizes deep and sincere commitment.
If you do not live in France or if the administration doubts your command of French, you may be required to provide a language level certificate (DELF B1 minimum) . In general, being married for several years to a French person is sufficient proof, but it is better to be prepared.
Once you have everything together (and your back has survived the load of paperwork), you must submit the file to the competent naturalization platform , depending on your department of residence. The submission is by appointment , so anticipate: delays can be long.
And no, we're not sending this by email or carrier pigeon. This is serious business.
After submitting your application, you will be invited for an interview . Again, don't panic. This is to verify your sincerity, your integration, and your minimal knowledge of the French Republic (yes, it's good to know the name of the current president).
You'll be asked questions about your relationship, your background, and your motivations. Smile, be sincere, and everything will be fine.
Once everything is in the hands of the administration, it's a bit like waiting for the baccalaureate results. You have to be patient : the processing can take 12 to 18 months . Yes, it's long. Very long.
But you can track the progress of your application, and if all goes well, you will receive a naturalization decree . Champagne (or apple juice)!
Sometimes, the request is denied. Don't panic: you can appeal, but you must act quickly (within 6 months). Don't hesitate to seek support from an association or a specialized lawyer if necessary. More information on this subject is available here !
Applying for French nationality through marriage isn't just a matter of paperwork. It's a symbolic, important, and sometimes somewhat stressful step. But by being well-organized, gathering all the necessary documents, and staying calm, you maximize your chances of success.
And don't forget: the French administration loves well-crafted files. So, get out your paper clips and plastic folders, and get started. The Republic is waiting for you (with a little paperwork along the way).