Which French language exams count toward citizenship?

Since 1 January 2026, naturalisation applications need B2 French, spoken and written (decree 2025-648). Accepted proof includes a TCF or TEF result under two years old or a diploma at B2 or above, such as DELF B2. DELF B1 alone no longer meets the requirement.

How do DELF, TCF, and TEF differ?

DELF B2 is a lifelong diploma with structured tasks. TCF IRN and TEF IRN are tests valid for two years that rely heavily on multiple-choice scoring for comprehension.

How does LearnLingo.ai help me prepare?

Our AI tutors rehearse oral interviews, grammar refreshers, and listening drills tailored to each exam and provide cultural context expected by French examiners.

French Citizenship Language Exams

Since 1 January 2026, French naturalisation requires B2 French. Compare and prepare for the main routes: TCF IRN, TEF IRN and a B2 diploma such as DELF B2.

Choose Your Exam

DELF B2

Diplôme d'Études en Langue Française - The official French Ministry of Education certification with lifetime validity.

✓Valid for life
✓Most widely recognized internationally
✓Four components: listening, reading, writing, speaking
✓Pass/fail scoring (minimum 50/100)

DELF B2 Preparation

TCF IRN

Test de Connaissance du Français - Developed by France Éducation International specifically for immigration and citizenship.

✓Valid for 2 years
✓Faster, computer-based multiple-choice tests
✓Four components: listening, reading, writing, speaking
✓Level-based scoring (B2: 400–499 points)

TCF IRN Preparation

TEF IRN

Test d'Évaluation de Français - Created by the Paris Chamber of Commerce for immigration, residency, and citizenship.

✓Valid for 2 years
✓More multiple-choice questions than TCF
✓Four components: listening, reading, writing, speaking
✓Level-based scoring (check the official TEF IRN scale for B2)

TEF IRN Preparation

Exam Comparison

Feature	DELF B2	TCF IRN	TEF IRN
Administering Body	French Ministry of Education	France Éducation International	CCI Paris
Validity	Lifetime	2 years	2 years
Listening Duration	About 30 minutes	25 minutes	40 minutes
Reading Duration	1 hour	45 minutes	60 minutes
Writing Duration	1 hour	30 minutes	60 minutes
Speaking Duration	20 min (+ 30 min prep)	10 minutes	15 minutes
Scoring System	Pass/Fail (min. 50/100)	100-699 points	0-699 points
Result needed for naturalisation (B2)	Pass (50/100, min. 5/25 per skill)	400–499 points	B2 on the official scale
Best For	Long-term value, international recognition	Quicker test, citizenship-focused	More comprehensive exam

Which Exam Should You Choose?

All three can show the B2 level now required for naturalisation, provided a TCF or TEF result is under two years old. Here are some factors to consider when choosing:

Choose DELF B2 if:

You want a certification that never expires
You'd like your qualification to be recognized internationally for education or work
You prefer a more traditional exam format with paper-based tests
You plan to continue studying French beyond citizenship

Choose TCF IRN if:

You want a quicker exam with more multiple-choice questions
You need a test specifically designed for citizenship purposes
You prefer a slightly shorter exam format
You're confident you'll complete your citizenship application within 2 years

Choose TEF IRN if:

You want the most comprehensive test with more questions
You're applying for both Canadian and French immigration (as variants can be used for both)
You're confident in your multiple-choice test-taking abilities
You're confident you'll complete your citizenship application within 2 years

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