Section actions
Duration: CIR: 1 year; possible extension of one year maximum; language training up to 600 hours
Cost: The actions prescribed by the OFII are public; private courses remain fee-paying
On-site only
Who this guide is for
Section actions
- Persons admitted for the first time to a permanent stay and invited by the OFII
- Signatories of the CIR to whom civic or linguistic training is prescribed
- Applicants for a first multi-year card or resident card concerned
To be prepared in advance
Section actions
- OFII convocation and ANEF notifications available
- Passport, residence permit or receipt
- French diploma or test at least A2 if you wish to claim an exemption from assessment
- Availability for prescribed appointments and trainings
Step-by-step procedure
Section actions
- 1First check if your title falls under the CIR: students, visitors, some temporary workers, talent holders and other categories can be exempted.
- 2Present yourself to the individual interview OFII. The contract is explained to you in an understood language, your written and oral French is evaluated and a personalized orientation is proposed.
- 3Follow the compulsory civic training: four sessions, namely 24 hours in total, on the principles of the Republic, institutions, rights, duties and life in France.
- 4If your assessment is less than A2, the OFII can offer language training up to 600 hours, possibly online. Once accepted and registered in the CIR, it becomes mandatory.
- 5Respect convocations, attendance and report any change of address or situation. The initial CIR lasts one year; a legitimate extension of up to one year can be decided.
- 6Do not confuse the CIR with the conditions of the cards: since 2026, a first multi-year card concerned requires A2 and civic examination, a first resident card concerned requires B1 and civic examination. These obligations do not automatically apply to each card or renewals.
Common mistakes
Section actions
- Believe that any residence permit imposes a CIR
- Ignore a summons or forget to update your address with the OFII
- Believing that language training is mandatory before being accepted and entered into the contract
- Consolidate the examination of access to a first map with that of naturalisation
- Thinking that renewal systematically requires a new review
Official sources
Section actions
Important remark
The obligation of CIR, examination and language level depends on the exact title, first application or renewal and exceptions provided for in the texts. Check your category in the official table.
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