France’s Tough Citizenship Language Tests Challenge Even Native French Speakers

Paris, France – The French government’s new language requirements for foreigners seeking residency and nationality have sparked criticism, with accusations that the tests are so difficult that even native French citizens would struggle to pass them.

The stricter rules, part of an immigration law expected to take effect by the end of the year, could result in up to 60,000 people being denied the right to stay in France.

An impact report for the Sénat on the new legislation suggests that more than 330,000 applicants will be subject to the new language requirements in the first year alone, with a significant number failing to meet the standards set.

The language tests, costing around €100 (£83.20), are part of a broader immigration bill passed in January 2024, which aims to reinforce border controls and make expelling undocumented migrants easier.

Government officials argue that these measures are designed to promote better integration of foreign residents.

Until now, individuals applying for a carte de séjour (residency permit) were required to sign an “integration contract” and commit to learning French.

Previously, only those seeking long-term residency or French nationality had to pass a language proficiency test. Under the new law, all applicants must demonstrate fluency at a level equivalent to that of an 11-to-15-year-old in the French education system.

Those applying for nationality must meet even stricter criteria, proving they can understand complex texts and express themselves fluently.

A recent investigation by FranceInfo found that these new requirements could be overly demanding, even for native speakers.

When ten French volunteers, including a literature student with five years of post-baccalauréat education, attempted the test, half of them failed the written component, though they passed the oral exam. Two participants did not score high enough to qualify for French nationality under the new rules.

“The level is far too high for most foreigners seeking nationality or residency,” said Félix Guyon, a representative from the Thot school, which provides French lessons to refugees and asylum seekers.

The law has raised concerns among advocacy groups and educators, who argue that it places an unfair burden on foreigners, particularly those in low-income jobs or with limited access to education.

Marianne, a cleaner who has lived in France for over a decade after moving from Comoros, told FranceInfo: “The problem is I don’t have the time. I haven’t done any studies in France and I don’t have the necessary level.”

Despite criticism, the French government maintains that the changes are in line with immigration policies in neighboring countries like Germany.

Didier Leschi, head of the French Office for Immigration and Integration, defended the law, stating, “The whole system is designed to give people a sense of responsibility and help them integrate. They have three years to reach the minimum level and renew their residency permit.”

However, critics argue that the policy fails to acknowledge the realities of daily life for many immigrants, particularly those balancing work and family responsibilities.

Chloé Odent, a teacher with the association A Voix Haute, noted: “There are people who speak French very well, who communicate every day at work, but who are not going to pass this exam.”

The government has not yet announced an exact date for the law’s implementation, though exemptions will reportedly apply to retirees over the age of 65 and those renewing annual visitor cards.

As the debate intensifies, immigration advocates continue to push for revisions to ensure that language proficiency requirements do not become an insurmountable barrier for those seeking to make France their home.

 

This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members