A2, B1 or B2 French: which level does your procedure require?
Par Antonin GAVREL - le samedi 5 septembre 2026 - 7 min read
Three levels for three stages of the pathway
The reform in effect since 1 January 2026 raised the language requirements. For procedures within its scope, the standard progression is straightforward:
| Procedure | Level of French | | ----------------------------------------- | --------------: | | Initial multi-year residence card | A2 | | Initial resident card | B1 | | Naturalisation or reinstatement by decree | B2 |
These thresholds are general guidelines. Some permit categories, statuses and medical circumstances are subject to exclusions or exemptions. Always check the information page corresponding to your exact application.
A2 level: communicating in everyday situations
At A2, you can understand frequently used sentences, exchange simple information and briefly describe your surroundings. For a relevant initial multi-year card, the supporting document must demonstrate this level in an accepted manner.
Reaching A2 does not mean merely knowing administrative vocabulary. You must use comprehension and expression in everyday life.
B1 level: becoming independent
B1 means being able to communicate independently on familiar subjects. You can describe an experience, explain a plan and understand the main points of clear speech. This level is associated with an initial resident card where it falls within the scheme.
Old evidence of A2 does not become B1 because you have lived in France for several years. You must provide evidence of the level actually required.
B2 level: presenting a precise argument
B2, required for naturalisation applications submitted since 2026, involves understanding more complex texts and discussions, interacting fluently and developing a point of view. The level must be demonstrated in speaking and writing.
The TCF IRN and TEF IRN tests now assess up to B2. Certain diplomas may also be used if they fall within the recognised categories.
Which level do you need to demonstrate?
VisaPref checks your category, whether your evidence is accepted and its validity date before submission.
Test, diploma and training: three different concepts
A test such as the TCF or TEF produces a time-limited certificate, generally valid for two years. A diploma such as the DELF certifies an acquired level under its own rules. A training certificate proves that you attended lessons, but does not always demonstrate the statutory level.
Before paying for a course, ask what final document will be issued and whether it is accepted for your procedure. Attending OFII lessons must not be confused with the evidence required at submission.
The civic exam does not replace the language requirement
Levels A2, B1 and B2 assess proficiency in French. The civic exam assesses knowledge of the Republic and French society. For the relevant procedures, you must provide both forms of evidence.
This distinction explains why a French speaker may still have to take the civic exam, or why someone who passed the multiple-choice test must still provide language evidence.
How to progress from one level to the next
Begin with an assessment of all four skills. Then work on the weakest, as it may prevent you from reaching the overall level. To progress towards B2:
- listen to long-form content and summarise it;
- read articles and identify their thesis and arguments;
- write two timed texts each week;
- record a structured spoken response;
- have recurring errors corrected.
Official sources
Article updated on 16 September 2026. Rules specific to a permit may change the evidence required.