CIR civic training: the four-day programme
Par Antonin GAVREL - le mardi 25 août 2026 - 7 min read
Compulsory training as part of the CIR pathway
Civic training is prescribed for the relevant signatories of the Republican Integration Contract (contrat d’intégration républicaine or CIR). It takes place over four days and is designed to provide the essential knowledge needed to live independently in France.
It is not limited to history or national symbols. The programme connects the values of the Republic with institutions, rights, employment, healthcare, schools and everyday administrative procedures.
What the four days cover
The exact organisation may vary, but the content is structured around several broad areas:
- principles and values: liberty, equality, fraternity, secularism and equality between women and men;
- institutions and political organisation;
- the rights and duties of a person living in France;
- access to employment, housing, healthcare and education;
- public services, local life and administrative procedures.
Take an active part and note down the useful organisations in your département. The training should continue to be useful once you leave the classroom.
Attendance and supporting documents
Attend with your notice and the documents requested. You may have to sign an attendance sheet at each session. Keep the final certificate with your CIR and correspondence from OFII.
If a serious reason prevents you from attending, inform the organisation immediately, provide evidence and request a new date. Do not assume that an absence will automatically be excused.
Civic training and the civic exam: the essential difference
Since 2026, the civic exam has been required for certain initial applications for a multi-year residence card or resident card, and for naturalisation. The exam consists of 40 questions and requires 32 correct answers.
CIR training is teaching; the exam is a certification. Attending all four days does not therefore mean that you automatically pass the multiple-choice test. Use the training as a foundation, then study the official list for the relevant category.
Turn the training into useful preparation
VisaPref helps you identify the certificates to retain and the evidence still required for your next procedure.
How to take effective notes
Divide a notebook into the same five topics as the civic exam. After each day, add the concepts you learned and a practical example. Separately note the personal steps you need to take, such as registration, finding a doctor, employment or housing.
Ask a question whenever a rule is unclear. Bear in mind, however, that the trainer does not decide your right of residence and cannot guarantee that a future application will be accepted.
Childcare, mobility or disability issues
Report any difficulties as soon as you receive the notice. The authorities provide information about childcare options during training. If you have a disability or accessibility requirement, ask about suitable arrangements before the session.
Keep a record of your communications. An early request gives the organisation time to find a solution and demonstrates your intention to comply with the contract.
After the four days
File the certificate, complete any prescribed language training and prepare for the review interview. For a future permit, check separately the required language level, civic exam, conditions specific to the card and compliance with the CIR.
For an overview, read our guide to the CIR in 2026.
Official sources
Article updated on 16 September 2026. Times and practical arrangements are stated in your notice.