The Citizen booklet is an official document that gathers examples of knowledge expected to prepare for the interview and, more broadly, for civic revision.
Excerpt (Citizen booklet): FOREWORD You have chosen to submit an application to acquire French nationality, and you thereby show your wish to join the national community, to respect its values and to enrich it. Assimilation into the French community implies mastery of the French language corresponding to level B1 (spoken and written) of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, sufficient knowledge of French history, culture and society, as well as adherence to the principles and values of the Republic. For the purposes of the procedure, you will soon be invited to an interview at the prefecture, sub‑prefecture or consulate, in order to assess your degree of assimilation into the national community. This interview will be an opportunity to discuss your knowledge of French society and its essential principles and values. The interview will also be an opportunity to assess your adherence to these principles and values, which is expressed through respect for them and their implementation in all moments of daily life, within the family or in society. This booklet, without being exhaustive, brings together examples of knowledge expected from any candidate for naturalization. You are invited to study this document before the interview, in order to prepare for this discussion as well as possible.
How to use it to study
- Turn each section into short flashcards (definition → example → common pitfall).
- Create mini‑MCQs from the official question lists (CSP/CR + naturalization).
- Keep in mind that some information dates back to 2022 (edition): verify 2026 requirements on Service‑Public.
Example: secularism (official definition in the booklet)
Secularism Secularism is a fundamental principle of the Republic. It means that religious matters and public affairs are clearly separated. This principle is old: it is enshrined in the 1905 law separating Churches and the State. But to preserve public order, the State may restrict the right to display one’s religion in public, under the principle that it is forbidden “for anyone to invoke their religious beliefs in order to free themselves from the common rules governing relations between public bodies and individuals” (Constitutional Council, 19 November 2004). The State also guarantees freedom of religion. Everyone is free to believe or not to believe and to adopt the religion they choose.
Example: institutions (booklet summary)
The main institutions of the State - The President of the Republic is elected by direct universal suffrage for five years. He appoints the Government, led by the Prime Minister, who comes from the majority in legislative elections. - Parliament, made up of the National Assembly and the Senate, passes laws and oversees the Government. Members of the National Assembly are elected for five years during legislative elections. Senators are elected by indirect universal suffrage for a six‑year term. - Justice is administered by judges. It settles disputes between individuals or companies, and between citizens and the administration. It sanctions breaches of law with penalties provided by law (e.g., imprisonment, fines) or regulatory texts.
To practice
Official sources
- Citizen booklet (official PDF)
- Service‑Public (naturalization, F2213)
- Service‑Public (civic exam for naturalization, F39426)
- Service‑Public (civic exam, A18713)
- Civic training (platform)
- Vie‑publique
- Légifrance
Independent tool. The explanations below are provided as a study aid. Always verify important information on official websites.