France Raises Residency and Citizenship Fees for Foreign Nationals to Record Levels

The French government has announced a significant increase in fees for residency permits and citizenship applications for foreign nationals, marking the highest levels in years as part of the new 2026 budget plan.

Under the new regulations, the fee for applying for French citizenship will rise from €55 to €255. Initial residency permit fees will increase to €300, with renewals set at €200.

A €100 fee will continue to apply to certain temporary residence cards, particularly for recent graduates and humanitarian cases.

The increase aims to align France’s fees with the European average and provide additional resources to support the modernization of French administrative services. It is expected to generate approximately €150 million annually.

The government has exempted British citizens covered under the Brexit withdrawal agreement and recognized refugees, while most other groups, including talent passport holders, will be affected.

Legal experts have warned that the new fees are part of additional costs, including translation services, language tests, and written citizenship exams, potentially bringing the total cost per applicant to over €1,000.

This decision comes amid stricter language and citizenship testing requirements and the upcoming implementation of the new European Entry-Exit System, adding pressure on foreign residents before the new fees take effect in May 2026.

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