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In brief
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Duration: Preparation — a few hours; decision — weeks to months
Cost: Free
On-site only

Who this guide is for

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  • You if you have acquired French nationality and need an official certificate
  • You if you are French of origin without birth certificate mentioning nationality
  • You if an approach (succession, retirement, marriage) requires proof of nationality

To be prepared in advance

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  • Proofs of French nationality: birth certificate, documents of parents, decree of naturalization
  • Identity document (CNI/passport), proof of residence
  • If so, the documents explaining why the birth certificate is not sufficient

Step-by-step procedure

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  1. 1Collect the proofs of nationality: French birth certificate with filiation, documents of the French parents (if nationality of origin), decree of naturalization (if naturalization).
  2. 2Submit the application to the court of your place of residence (or Paris for residents abroad). Forms and list of parts on service-public.fr. Deposit in writing or on site.
  3. 3Attach: application form, proof of nationality, CNI/passport, proof of residence. For original foreigners — a maximum of coins on the filiation chain.
  4. 4Wait for the decision (often weeks to months). In the event of a favourable opinion, you will receive the CNF — official document with the seal of the court.
  5. 5Use the CNF to: obtain/renew the CNI or passport, certain steps (succession, retirement), proof of nationality during a marriage or birth abroad.
  6. 6The CNF is issued free of charge (free procedure). In case of refusal, an appeal is possible.
  7. 7Keep the CNF: it remains valid for a long time (but may require an update in case of a change of marital status).

Common mistakes

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  • Believe the CNF = naturalization. No — he attests to a nationality already acquired.
  • File incomplete evidence file — delay or refusal.
  • Ignore that the CNF is free (unlike other documents).
  • Address the wrong court (the place of residence).
  • Thinking that the birth certificate is always enough. In complex cases, the NFC is required.

Official sources

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Show sources in this section

Useful links

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Naturalisation (French nationality)Passport (French)

Important remark

Evidence of nationality varies from case to case. This information is indicative — for your situation, contact the court.

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