The steps of French naturalisation by decree, from the ANEF application to the decree
Updated 19 October 2026
This guide summarises the journey of a naturalisation application. It does not replace the official page: the conditions (residence, language, civic test, income) and the list of documents are on Service-Public.
1. Applying
You normally apply online, from your personal space on the ANEF service for foreign nationals. Paper applications are only possible when the online service cannot be used. The stamp duty is €255 (€127.50 in French Guiana). Each member of a couple files their own application.
2. The receipt
The platform checks that the file is complete. Missing documents are requested with a deadline; without a reply, the file may be closed. Once complete, you receive a receipt (récépissé): the legal response deadline (18 months, or 12 after ten years of residence) runs from that date.
3. Checks
The administration checks in particular your civic behaviour (for example tax payments) and criminal record, and may consult other bodies. This step is often invisible to applicants and can run in parallel.
4. The assimilation interview
If the application is admissible, you are invited to the prefecture for an interview: your background, knowledge of France and its values, and your French. You bring original documents and sign the charter of rights and duties of the French citizen. Missing it without reason can get the file closed.
5. Transfer to the ministry (SDANF)
After the interview, the prefecture sends the file with its opinion to the nationality department of the Ministry of the Interior (SDANF). This is often a long period without news.
6. The decision
- Naturalisation decree: signed by the minister and published in the Journal officiel; it takes effect on the date of signature. Minor children living with you can become French if they are listed.
- Postponement (ajournement): you can reapply after the period set.
- Inadmissibility or refusal: conditions not met, or the application is deemed inappropriate.
A negative decision can be appealed to the minister within two months, then before the administrative court of Nantes.
7. The ceremony
The prefecture then organises a welcome ceremony into French citizenship.
How long does each step take?
It depends heavily on your platform. Each platform page on Dossiermap shows, once there is enough data, the median duration of each step and how many people are waiting. See also naturalisation processing time.
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