Residence permit in France in 2026: the “Talent” program, civic exam, and language requirements

France has always been one of the more complex immigration destinations in Europe — not because it is closed, but because many nuances directly affect outcomes. In 2025–2026, more changes were introduced than usual: the key program for professionals and entrepreneurs was renamed, a mandatory civic exam was introduced from January 2026, and language requirements for long-term residence were significantly increased.

In this article, we cover four key topics: what changed in the “Talent” program, what the new civic exam is and who it applies to, the updated language requirements for permanent residence and citizenship, and the situation with the €30,000 deposit for Russian citizens. All information is актуально as of March 2026.

Since June 2025, the program has been officially renamed from “Talent Passport” (Passeport Talent) to simply “Talent” (Talent) under Decree No. 2025-539 (June 13, 2025).

The reason is practical: many applicants misunderstood the word “passport” as citizenship or a special document. In reality, this remains a residence permit for professionals, entrepreneurs, and startup founders contributing to the French economy.

Key point: the conditions have not fundamentally changed — the same eligibility criteria and document requirements apply. The structure has been reorganized into eight clearly defined categories.

Key advantages of the “Talent” program in 2026
• Residence permit valid for up to 4 years — one of the longest in Europe
• Family members receive a “Talent — Family” permit with work rights
• Exemption from civic exam and language tests at initial application
• No labor market test required
• Eligibility for permanent residence or citizenship after 5 years

Main categories (2026)
• Qualified employee — Master’s degree + salary from €39,582/year
• EU Blue Card — degree + salary from €59,373/year
• Entrepreneur / new business — €30,000 deposit + degree or 5 years’ experience
• Startup founder — approval from Bpifrance or incubator
• Creative professional — income from €1,426/month
• Researcher — agreement with French institution
• Medical professions (new category since 2025)

Update: From May 1, 2026, administrative fees will increase from €225 to €150–€350 depending on category.

From January 1, 2026, a new mandatory civic exam has been introduced under the Immigration Law of January 26, 2024.

It applies to applicants for:
• Multi-year residence permits (2–4 years)
• 10-year residence card
• French citizenship (naturalization)

It does not apply to:
• One-year residence permits
• Renewals of existing multi-year permits

Exam format
• Computer-based test (in accredited centers)
• Duration: up to 45 minutes
• 40 questions (multiple choice)
• 28 questions on history, values, institutions
• 12 scenario-based integration questions

Passing score: 32/40 (80%)
Cost: €69
Validity: unlimited

Exemptions
• “Talent” permit holders (initial application)
• EU/EEA citizens
• Certain protected categories

Important: “Talent” holders must still pass the exam when applying for permanent residence or citizenship.

New language thresholds apply from January 1, 2026:
Levels follow the CEFR scale:
• A2 — basic communication
• B1 — intermediate, everyday situations
• B2 — advanced, professional and academic use

Important: Language courses are no longer sufficient — official certification is required:
• TCF IRN
• DELF diploma

For the “New Business” Talent category, applicants must deposit at least €30,000.

The deposit is made via:
• CARPA (lawyer escrow account)
• or a notary

Sanctions create additional checks for Russian citizens, but in practice:
• Transfers via third-country banks (Armenia, Georgia, UAE, Kazakhstan) work
• Russian banks cannot be used

Expert tip: Open a foreign bank account in advance to simplify the process.

• Authorities now request more documents (insurance, tax, residence proof)
• Processing times have increased compared to 2024–2025
• Civic exam must be passed before applying
• Only official language certificates are accepted
• Fees increase from May 2026

If you are not relocating via employment, studies, or marriage, the “Talent” program remains the most practical route:
• No language requirement at initial stage
• No civic exam initially
• High approval rates
• Residence permit up to 4 years
• Family included
• Path to permanent residence/citizenship after 5 years
• Immediate work rights

The main change: stricter document checks and longer processing times.

France remains an attractive destination in 2026 for professionals, entrepreneurs, and researchers. The renaming of the “Talent Passport” did not change the program’s core — only its structure.
The civic exam and higher language requirements do not affect “Talent” applicants at the initial stage — a key advantage that remains.

However, expectations must be realistic: longer timelines, stricter documentation, and more thorough preparation. Those who prepare properly continue to succeed.

Visa Dan is an international company with a strong legal team and experience in assisting more than 1,000 clients. We offer:

• Individual selection of solutions and strategies for obtaining a residence permit.
• Complete transparency and support at every stage.
• A strong team in Europe: lawyers, translators, operators, notaries.
• Support until you receive your ID card, as well as assistance with renewal and integration in the country.

The Visa Dan team will help you navigate this journey from start to finish. Get personalized advice and start your new life in 2025!