B2 level for naturalisation in 2026: accepted evidence
Par Antonin GAVREL - le mardi 8 septembre 2026 - 8 min read
The major change in 2026
For applications for naturalisation or reinstatement by decree submitted since 1 January 2026, the required level of French is B2 in speaking and writing. This replaces the previous B1 threshold.
B2 describes an independent user who can understand relatively complex texts, follow a detailed conversation, present an argument and produce clear writing. Speaking French in everyday life is not enough: you must provide evidence accepted by the authorities.
What evidence can be used?
Depending on your circumstances, evidence may consist of:
- a French diploma or recognised French-language diploma at the required level;
- a recent certificate from an approved test, particularly the TCF IRN or TEF IRN;
- evidence falling within a statutory exemption category.
Admissibility depends on the document type, the level certified in each skill and its validity date. Do not assume that a foreign diploma taught in French will automatically be accepted: the reform narrowed the accepted evidence.
B2 in every skill
The IRN tests assess listening, reading, speaking and writing. A good overall level must not conceal a skill below the statutory threshold. Read the detailed certificate and the testing organisation’s scoring rules.
For example, being highly proficient in speaking but remaining at B1 in writing may prevent you from demonstrating the required B2. Begin with an assessment of all four skills.
TCF IRN or TEF IRN?
Both tests assess up to B2 and their certificates are valid for two years. They differ in exercise structure, interface and scoring arrangements. Choose according to your habits, available dates and the format in which you perform best, not simply the first centre you find.
Read our TCF IRN and TEF IRN comparison before booking.
B2 level must be demonstrated, not merely declared
VisaPref checks that your language evidence is consistent with the date and type of your application.
When should you take the test?
The certificate must be valid when it is required in the procedure. Avoid taking the test too early if submission is a long way off, but leave enough time to receive the results and retake the test if your level is insufficient.
France Éducation international states that TCF IRN results are sent to the centre about 15 working days after receipt of the session materials. Add the time required to register and for the centre to provide them to you.
B2 and the civic exam are not the same
The language test assesses your French. The civic exam assesses your knowledge of French history, culture and society. In 2026, a naturalisation applicant must generally satisfy both requirements, then attend the assimilation interview.
Passing the TCF or TEF therefore does not exempt you from the 40 civic questions. Passing the civic multiple-choice test does not demonstrate B2 either.
Exemption for disability or health reasons
A disability or chronic poor health may justify accommodations and, where assessment is impossible, an exemption documented with the prescribed medical certificate. The decision is not based on a general letter alone. Read our guide to the health-related exemption.
Mistakes that weaken an application
- submitting an expired test;
- providing only an overall score without checking each skill;
- using an old certificate limited to B1;
- including an unlisted diploma without checking its acceptance;
- waiting until the final month to book a session.
Official sources
Article updated on 16 September 2026. Check the evidence accepted for your procedure before paying for a test.