Checking eligibility conditions

Before submitting an application, you must meet several criteria:

• Be of legal age (however, applications for naturalization can be made from the age of 17)
• Legal residence in France on the date of application for naturalization
• Residence in France for at least 5 years (with some exceptions)
• Professional and social integration
• French language skills
• No criminal record

Professional integration is a key factor. A permanent contract with the same company for at least three years is a major asset. If you’ve had several fixed-term contracts before obtaining a permanent contract, this is still acceptable, but a prolonged period of unemployment or a recent career change may be grounds for postponement. It may be preferable to wait one or two years to stabilize your situation before submitting your application.

Building a solid business case

A French naturalization lawyer ensures that all documents are in order:

• Civil status records
• Proof of residence
• Proof of professional and social integration
• Proof of income (stable salary, rental income, financial investments)

There is no compulsory salary threshold, but income stability is a determining factor.

Filing and follow-up

Your file is submitted to the Prefecture. A French naturalization lawyer will monitor the progress of your application and intervene if you need to make any additional requests. Many prefectures require you to submit your application online, so it’s vital to check the procedures on your prefecture’s website, or to seek advice from a lawyer.

The naturalization interview: how to prepare?

The importance of general culture

The individual interview is designed to assess your knowledge of the history, culture and values of the French Republic. So it’s essential to be well prepared. Assimilate the Citizen’s Booklet, available online, which covers :

• Key dates in French history
• How institutions work
• Republican values

Frequently asked questions and personal preparation

The administration also assesses your personal motivation to become French. Be prepared to answer questions such as :

• What do you like about France?
• What’s your favourite French cuisine?
• What are your favorite films, actors, singers or books?

Prepare sincere, personal answers. It’s a good idea to have a few names of French cultural figures in mind to avoid a blank during the interview.

Interview procedure

The interview is fast-paced and intense. You’ll be asked a wide range of questions. So it’s crucial to be comfortable and well-prepared. The assessment is based on your answers and your ability to demonstrate your attachment to the values of the Republic. Our lawyers can help you to be as well prepared as possible for this crucial stage.

What should I do if my naturalization application is rejected?

Identify the reasons for refusal

Refusals are often linked to a lack of supporting documents, insufficient integration or a criminal record. The administration is strict: a simple criminal charge, even without a conviction, can lead to deferment.

Recourse to a specialist lawyer

You can contest the refusal by various means:

• Recourse to the prefecture
• Hierarchical appeal to the Ministry of the Interior
• Litigation before the administrative court

Our law firm maximizes your chances of success. If you have been involved in a criminal case, we can request a copy of your file to anticipate any objections.

How much does a naturalization lawyer cost?

Naturalization lawyer fees vary according to several criteria:

• File complexity
• Type of support (advice, file preparation, appeals)

Our lawyers offer an initial consultation to assess your situation and determine a suitable quote.

Why choose our firm for your French nationality application?

Recognized expertise in immigration law

The lawyers at Goldwin Partners are experts in immigration and nationality law, and have a thorough understanding of administrative requirements.

Tailor-made support

We tailor our strategy to your personal situation to maximize your chances of success.

A presence in Paris and throughout France

If you are looking for a naturalization lawyer in Paris, our firm can help you either face-to-face or remotely.

Conclusion

Obtaining French nationality is a demanding process that can be facilitated by the expertise of a naturalization lawyer. We can help you optimize your file and avoid administrative pitfalls. Contact Goldwin Partners now for a consultation and put the odds in your favor!