The French naturalisation interview: how it goes and what comes next
Updated 23 October 2026
The invitation
If your application is admissible, the platform invites you to an individual interview. The wait between receipt and invitation varies widely between platforms and is often the longest step before the file goes to the ministry. Some prefectures publish which application period they are currently inviting: the Brittany platform does, and its latest update is shown on its page.
Missing the interview without a valid reason can get your application closed: if you can’t attend, tell the platform.
What to bring
The originals of the documents in your file (ID, residence permit, civil status records, documents listed in the invitation). Follow the list in your invitation rather than one found online.
How it goes
An officer assesses your assimilation into the French community: your background, family and work situation, knowledge of France, its values and institutions, and your French. You sign the charter of rights and duties of the French citizen.
Since 2026 the civic exam is taken before applying (see civic exam); the interview remains mandatory.
After the interview
The prefecture writes its opinion and sends the file to the ministry (SDANF). A long, quiet period starts, described in after the transfer to SDANF.
Each platform page on Dossiermap shows, once there’s enough data, the median interview → decision time and how many people are waiting after their interview.
Share your interview date: it helps applicants invited after you.
Sources
This guide is for information only and does not replace official texts or legal advice. Check your situation on service-public.gouv.fr or with your prefecture.
Something wrong or out of date? Let us know