CITIZENSHIP & HERITAGE
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France

Citizenship by descent, in plain words.

Furthest routine descent
Parent-to-child chain, no fixed limit
Fee
Free (certificate of nationality)
Watch out
Article 30-3: if the family didn't use French nationality for 50 years, the claim is barred.

The rules

  • Citizenship passes parent to child with no fixed limit, but every link must be proved.
  • Article 30-3: if neither you nor the French parent lived in France or used French nationality for 50 years, you can't claim it.
  • The certificate of nationality (CNF) is free. Form: Cerfa 16237.

Documents to check

Check the official application checklist for this route before ordering records. It may ask for birth records linking each generation, name-change or marriage records, and proof of the ancestor’s citizenship. Special routes may need additional evidence. The consulate can confirm which documents, translations and certifications apply to you.

Official source

https://www.service-public.gouv.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F1051

Service-Public.fr pages F3068 and F1051.

Checked 8 November 2026.

Verify before applying. Rules and fees change. This page is a plain-language summary, not legal advice. Check the official source above, or ask the country's embassy or consulate, before you send anything.