CSP · Carte de séjour pluriannuelle · 269 questions with answers
Knowledge questions are copied word for word from the official lists of the Ministry of the Interior, which come without answers. Answers, explanations and scenarios are written by this app: check official sources if in doubt.
Practise these questions and take a mock examWhat does the date of 14 July correspond to?
14 July has been the national holiday since 1880. It recalls the storming of the Bastille (1789) and the fête de la Fédération (Federation Festival, 1790). Labour Day is 1 May, and the 1945 victory is 8 May.
What is one of the symbols of the French Republic?
The tricolour flag is the national emblem (Constitution, art. 2). The fleur-de-lis represented the monarchy and the eagle represented Napoleon's Empire. The Eiffel Tower is a monument, not an official symbol.
The principle of equality means that:
Equality means that the law is the same for everyone, whatever their origin, sex or religion (Constitution, art. 1). It does not mean that everyone earns the same salary.
"Liberté, égalité, fraternité" (Liberty, equality, fraternity) is:
« Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité » is the motto of the Republic (Constitution, art. 2). The national anthem is la Marseillaise. The motto of the European Union is « Unie dans la diversité » (United in diversity).
Is it allowed to publicly insult someone because they are different (disability, physical appearance, sex…)?
A public insult because of disability, sex, origin or religion is an offence, also on the Internet. Freedom of expression has limits set by law.
Can some jobs be reserved for men?
Equality between women and men forbids reserving a job for one sex. The army and the police also recruit women. The law allows only very rare exceptions (for example, an acting role).
When does the Constitution of the Ve République (Fifth Republic) date from?
The Constitution of the Fifth Republic dates from 4 October 1958, under General de Gaulle. 1946 is the date of the Constitution of the Fourth Republic; 1789 is the date of the Declaration of the Rights of Man.
The political system of France is:
France is an indivisible, secular, democratic and social Republic (Constitution, art. 1). There has been no king or emperor since 1870. Be careful: the United Kingdom and Spain are monarchies.
Which of these symbols officially represents the French Republic?
The national emblem is the blue, white and red tricolour flag (Constitution, art. 2). The fleur-de-lis is the symbol of the kings of France, the eagle is the symbol of Napoleon.
Where can you see the motto of the Republic?
The motto « Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité » is written on the front of public buildings (town halls, schools) and on French euro coins. Euro banknotes are shared across Europe and carry no national symbol.
Which are official symbols of the French Republic?
The symbols of the Republic are the tricolour flag, the anthem (la Marseillaise), the motto, Marianne and 14 July. The fleur-de-lis and the crown are symbols of the monarchy.
What is equality?
Equality means the law is the same for everyone, whatever their origin, sex or religion. Everyone keeps their own opinions and religion.
What does liberty mean?
According to article 4 of the 1789 Declaration, « liberty consists in being able to do anything that does not harm others ». Its limits are set by law.
What does the word "fraternité" (fraternity) mean in the French motto?
Fraternity means solidarity between everyone: helping the most vulnerable and helping each other. For example, it is shown through the Sécurité sociale (social security system) or volunteering in associations.
Which animal is a symbol of France?
The Gallic rooster is a traditional symbol of France, seen for example on sports team shirts. It is not a symbol written in the Constitution.
What is one of the roles of associations?
An association brings people together around a common non-profit project: sport, culture, solidarity, helping people. Laws are voted by Parliament and justice is delivered by the courts.
What is the name of the national anthem?
The national anthem is la Marseillaise (Constitution, art. 2), written by Rouget de Lisle in 1792. The Ode to Joy is the anthem of the European Union.
Which symbol of the French Republic is tricolour (three colours)?
The French flag is tricolour: blue, white, red. It is the national emblem set out in article 2 of the Constitution.
What is the date of the French national holiday?
The national holiday is 14 July. 1 May is Labour Day, 8 May is the 1945 victory and 11 November is the 1918 armistice.
What is the motto of the French Republic?
The motto « Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité » (Liberty, Equality, Fraternity) is written in article 2 of the Constitution. « Travail, Famille, Patrie » (Work, Family, Fatherland) was the motto of the Vichy regime; « Unie dans la diversité » (United in diversity) is the motto of the European Union.
What is the official language of the French Republic?
« The language of the Republic is French » (Constitution, art. 2). Regional languages such as Breton are part of France's heritage, but they are not official languages.
What is the place of the French language in the Republic?
Article 2 of the Constitution says: « The language of the Republic is French ». It is the language of public administration, justice and education (loi Toubon, 1994).
Which freedom allows everyone to express their ideas?
Freedom of expression allows you to say and write your opinions (DDHC – Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen, art. 11). It has limits: you cannot insult, defame or call for hatred.
Which statement is correct? Freedom of expression:
Everyone can express their ideas, even criticise the government, but the law punishes insults, defamation, threats and calls for hatred.
What are the colours of the French flag?
The French flag is blue, white, red, in vertical stripes (Constitution, art. 2). Tip: the blue is on the side of the flagpole.
What is la Marseillaise?
La Marseillaise is the national anthem (Constitution, art. 2). Written by Rouget de Lisle in 1792, it takes its name from soldiers from Marseille who sang it in Paris.
What is traditionally organised on the Champs-Élysées on 14 July to celebrate the national holiday?
Every 14 July, a military parade takes place on the Champs-Élysées in Paris, in the presence of the President of the Republic. Trap: the Tour de France also finishes there, but at the end of the race, not on 14 July.
Who is Marianne?
Marianne is a symbolic woman wearing a Phrygian cap, who represents the Republic. You can see her bust in town halls and her face on stamps. She is not a real person.
Can a person freely change religion?
Freedom of conscience allows you to believe, not to believe and to change religion, without any permission. Nobody can force a religion on an adult.
"France is an indivisible, ..., democratic and social Republic". Complete this sentence from article 1 of the Constitution:
Article 1 says: « France is an indivisible, secular, democratic and social Republic. » France has no official religion and is not a federal State.
In which year was the law on the separation of the Churches and the State voted?
The law on the separation of the Churches and the State dates from 9 December 1905. This is why the day of laïcité (secularism) is 9 December.
What does the principle of laïcité (secularism) allow?
Laïcité (secularism) guarantees freedom of conscience: everyone can believe, not believe or change religion. The State is neutral and the laws of the Republic apply to everyone, whatever their religion.
Which right is guaranteed by laïcité (secularism)?
« The Republic ensures freedom of conscience » (1905 law, art. 1). This is the heart of laïcité: everyone is free in their beliefs.
Why must the principle of laïcité (secularism) be respected at school?
In state schools, laïcité protects pupils' freedom of conscience and shields them from proselytism (religious pressure). Pupils can have a religion, but the school stays neutral.
What is laïcité (secularism)?
Laïcité separates the State and religions: the State is neutral, it does not recognise or fund any religion, and it guarantees the freedom to believe or not to believe. It does not ban religions.
Can a child refuse to go to school for a religious reason?
Education is compulsory for all children from age 3 to 16. Religion does not allow a child to refuse school. Occasional permission to be absent for a major religious festival can be given, but not a refusal to go to school.
Does a person have the right not to believe in any religion?
Freedom of conscience protects believers as much as atheists and agnostics. Nobody has to declare their religion to the administration.
Amina works at the reception desk of la mairie (town hall). She wants to wear a religious headscarf at work. Is she allowed to?
Public service staff (mairie, préfecture, public hospital, public school) must follow the principle of neutrality: they cannot show their religion while on duty. The mayor cannot make an exception to this rule.
Karim goes to la préfecture (State administration office) to renew his residence permit. He is wearing a religious skullcap. Can the officer refuse to see him for this reason?
Neutrality applies to public servants, not to users. A user may wear a religious sign in a public office, as long as their face is not hidden and they respect the order of the service.
Mei is in 4e (8th grade) at a public collège (middle school). She wants to come to class wearing a large religious veil. Is this allowed?
The law of 15 March 2004 forbids pupils in public primary schools, collèges and lycées from wearing conspicuous religious signs (large veil, kippah, large cross). Parents' consent changes nothing.
Leïla is a student at a public university. She wears a religious headscarf in class. Is this allowed?
The ban on conspicuous religious signs applies to pupils in public primary schools, collèges and lycées. University students are adult users of the public service: they may wear a religious sign. Note: the full-face veil is still banned everywhere in public space.
Thanh is an employee of a private logistics company. He wears a small religious pendant. In principle, is he allowed to wear it at work?
In the private sector, religious freedom is the rule. The employer can limit it only if this is justified (safety, hygiene, contact with customers) and proportionate, for example in the company rules (règlement intérieur). Compulsory neutrality applies to public servants.
Paul is a teacher in a public school. He wants to tell his pupils that his religion is the best. Can he do this?
A public school teacher is a public servant: he must respect religious neutrality and cannot spread religious propaganda. Public schools have been secular since the Ferry (1882) and Goblet (1886) laws.
Lucas was born into a Catholic family. At 25, he decides to become a Buddhist. Does he have the right to change religion?
The Republic guarantees freedom of conscience: everyone can believe, not believe, or change religion. There is no administrative step to take, because the State does not record people's religions.
Sophie does not believe in any god. During an administrative procedure, she wonders if she must state her religion. What should she be told?
France is a secular State: it does not recognise any religion and does not ask citizens their religion. Not believing is a protected right, just like believing.
At the préfecture counter, a man refuses to be served by a female officer because she is a woman. What can he be told?
Equality between women and men is a principle of the Republic. Users cannot refuse a public officer because of the officer's sex or religion.
Rachid, 13, a pupil at a public collège, refuses to attend compulsory swimming lessons for religious reasons. Is this accepted?
In public schools, religious beliefs do not allow a pupil to refuse a compulsory subject (sport, swimming, science, history). Only a medical reason can justify an exemption.
The mayor of Nadia's commune (municipality) wants to pay for building a new place of worship with the commune's money. Is this possible?
Article 2 of the 1905 law says that the Republic does not recognise, pay or subsidise any religion. So a commune cannot fund the building of a church, a mosque or a synagogue (Alsace-Moselle has special rules).
Fatou wants to walk in the street wearing a veil that completely covers her face. Is this allowed in France?
The law of 11 October 2010 forbids hiding your face in public space (street, transport, shops, public offices). The fine can be up to €150. Forcing someone to hide their face is a more serious offence.
A mairie employee refuses to help Samuel because he is Jewish. Which principle is violated?
The public service must treat all users in the same way, whatever their origin or religion. Refusing a service because of religion is also discrimination, punished by the Code pénal (Criminal Code).
Sophie and Marc do the same job in the same company, with the same experience. Sophie earns €300 less per month because she is a woman. Is this legal?
Equal pay for women and men is compulsory for the same work or work of equal value. This rule applies to all companies, and a contract cannot override it.
Mei wants to open a bank account in her own name. Her husband says she needs his permission. Is he right?
Since the law of 13 July 1965, a married woman can open a bank account and work without her husband's permission. Spouses have the same rights.
Aïcha has a job interview. The recruiter asks her if she wants to have children soon. What does the law say?
An employer cannot refuse to hire a woman because of a pregnancy or a plan to have a child, and must not ask questions about it. The candidate does not have to reveal that she is pregnant.
Moussa visits a flat. The landlord refuses to rent it to him, saying: “I don't rent to people of African origin.” What is this?
Refusing housing because of someone's origin is discrimination, an offence punished by up to 3 years in prison and a €45,000 fine. Moussa can file a complaint and contact the Défenseur des droits (Rights Defender).
During a job interview at a private company, Ana is asked what her religion is. Does she have to answer?
An employer's questions must only be used to assess skills. Choosing a candidate based on religion, origin or opinions is forbidden discrimination.
Hugo and Thomas, a male couple, book a hotel room. When they arrive, the hotel owner refuses to accept them because of their sexual orientation. Is this legal?
Refusing a service because of sexual orientation is discrimination, punished by the Code pénal. Homophobia is not an opinion: it is an offence when it leads to a refusal or an insult.
Léa and Clara, two women, want to get married at the mairie. Is this possible in France?
The law of 17 May 2013 opened marriage to same-sex couples. Civil marriage at the mairie has the same effects for all couples.
On the metro, a man insults Kofi because of the colour of his skin. What can Kofi do?
A racist insult is an offence, punished more severely than a simple insult. Freedom of expression has limits: it does not allow you to insult someone because of their origin or skin colour.
One morning, David finds antisemitic graffiti on his shop window. How does the law treat these acts?
Damaging property is already an offence. When it is done because of the victim's real or supposed religion or origin, the penalty is heavier. Racism and antisemitism are not opinions; they are offences.
Ivan writes a newspaper article that strongly criticises the government's policy. Is this allowed?
The free communication of thoughts and opinions is a precious right (art. 11 of the DDHC, the 1789 Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen). Criticising political leaders is allowed, as long as you do not commit insult, defamation or incitement to hatred.
Nadia writes on social media that her neighbour is a thief, without any proof. The neighbour is very shocked. What has Nadia done?
Publicly accusing someone of something that harms their honour is defamation. Social networks are a public space: the 1881 law applies there too.
Marc posts a message online calling for violence against members of a religion. What does he risk?
Incitement to hatred, discrimination or violence because of religion or origin is an offence, punished by up to one year in prison and a €45,000 fine. This is a limit on freedom of expression, online too.
During a heatwave, Paul visits his elderly neighbour who lives alone every day, to bring her water and check that she is well. Which value of the Republic does he show?
Fraternity, the third word of the motto, means solidarity and mutual help between people. During heatwaves, mairies also keep a register to help elderly or isolated people.
In the street, Lina sees a man fall and stay unconscious on the pavement. Nobody stops. What should she do?
Not helping a person in danger when you can do so without risk is an offence (failure to assist a person in danger). Calling emergency services is often enough. It is a concrete expression of fraternity.
Ahmed wants to give blood at the Établissement français du sang (French blood service). He asks how much he will be paid. What is he told?
In France, blood donation is voluntary, anonymous and unpaid. This principle of free giving expresses solidarity and fraternity between citizens.
Omar is already married in his country of origin. He lives in France and wants to marry a second wife at the mairie. Is this possible?
You cannot marry a second time as long as the first marriage has not been dissolved. Bigamy is an offence, and a person living in a polygamous situation in France cannot obtain a resident card (carte de résident).
Aïcha's parents want her, aged 19, to marry a cousin she does not want to marry. They say it is tradition. What does the law say?
There is no marriage without free consent (Code civil, art. 146). Forced marriage is punished, and forcing someone to marry through violence or threats is an offence. Aïcha can call 3919 or the police.
Yasmine, 16, learns that her parents want to take her on holiday to their country of origin to force her to marry. What can she do?
Forced marriage is forbidden, even abroad: French law also punishes tricking a person into going abroad to force them to marry. For a minor, 119 (children in danger) is free and available 24/7.
Nicolas and Ana want to marry only in church, without going to the mairie. What does French law say?
In France, only civil marriage, performed by the civil registrar (officier d'état civil) at the mairie, is recognised by law. A religious minister must not perform a religious marriage before the civil marriage.
Ivan must fill in an official form for a procedure at the préfecture. In which language must he fill it in?
Article 2 of the Constitution says: “The language of the Republic is French.” The Toubon law of 1994 requires the use of French in public services and official documents.
For his residence permit application, Thanh must provide his birth certificate written in Vietnamese. What must he do?
Foreign official documents must come with a French translation made by a sworn translator (traducteur assermenté, approved by a cour d'appel, court of appeal). French is the language of the administration.
Lucas wants to create a football association in his neighbourhood. What is the minimum number of people needed to create an association?
Under the law of 1 July 1901, an association is a contract between “two or more people” who share their knowledge or activity for a purpose other than sharing profits.
Mei, a Chinese national, lives in France with a residence permit. She wants to become president of a cultural association. Does she have the right?
Since the law of 9 October 1981, foreigners can freely create, run or join an association. Freedom of association is a fundamental principle recognised by the laws of the Republic.
Karim and his friends want to create an association to help elderly people. Do they need permission from le préfet (State representative in a département)?
Creating an association is free: no permission is needed. To have legal personality (open an account, receive subsidies), you just declare it at the préfecture, for free, and the declaration is published in the Journal officiel (official gazette).
Amina wants a divorce, but her husband refuses and says a woman cannot ask for a divorce. Is he right?
Spouses have the same rights and the same duties. Both the woman and the man can ask for a divorce; the judge can grant it even if the other spouse does not agree (for example after one year of separation).
Pierre is blind. A restaurant refuses to let him in with his guide dog. Is this legal?
The law guarantees disabled people access to places open to the public with their guide or assistance dog. Refusing is punished by a fine, and refusing a service because of disability is also discrimination.
Who appoints the Prime Minister?
Under Article 8 of the Constitution, the President of the Republic appoints the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister is not elected directly by the citizens.
Parliament is made up of:
Parliament has two chambers: the Assemblée nationale (the députés) and the Sénat (the sénateurs). The Government is not part of Parliament.
What is executive power? The power:
Executive power applies the laws and runs the country: it belongs to the President of the Republic and the Government. Voting laws is legislative power; judging is judicial power.
Leaders are elected by the citizens in:
In a democracy, power comes from the people: citizens choose their leaders in free elections. In France, the principle is « government of the people, by the people and for the people ».
Do you have the right not to respect a law?
The law applies to everyone and must be respected, even if you do not agree with it. To change a law, you can act democratically (vote, petition, declared demonstration), but you must not disobey it.
Who must respect the law?
In France, the law is the same for everyone: French people, foreigners, citizens and leaders. This is the principle of equality before the law and the rule of law (État de droit).
What is the role of the judicial authority?
The judicial authority (judges and courts) settles conflicts, punishes offences and protects individual freedoms (Article 66 of the Constitution). Voting laws is the role of Parliament.
What power does a judge hold? The power:
A judge exercises judicial power: he or she judges and applies the law to real cases. Legislative power belongs to Parliament, executive power to the President and the Government.
Judicial authority is exercised by:
Justice is delivered by magistrates (judges) in the courts. They are independent: the Government cannot give them orders on how to judge.
What happens if a minister does not respect the law?
A minister must respect the law like everyone else. For offences committed in office, a minister is tried by the Cour de justice de la République (Court of Justice of the Republic); for other offences, by the ordinary courts.
Who is elected in the législatives (parliamentary elections)?
The législatives elect the 577 députés of the Assemblée nationale. Sénateurs are elected by grands électeurs (electoral college) in the sénatoriales (Senate elections).
How many députés are there in the Assemblée nationale?
The Assemblée nationale has 577 députés. Watch out for the trap: 348 is the number of sénateurs.
When are the sénateurs elected?
Sénateurs are elected for 6 years, but half of the Sénat is renewed every 3 years (most recently in September 2026). They are elected by indirect vote, by grands électeurs (mostly local elected officials).
Who is elected in the municipales (municipal elections)?
In the municipales, voters elect the municipal councillors. Then the conseil municipal (municipal council) elects the mayor from among its members. The préfet is never elected: he or she is appointed.
Who is elected in the presidential election?
The presidential election elects the President of the Republic, by direct universal suffrage, for 5 years. The Prime Minister and the ministers are appointed, not elected.
From what age do you have the right to vote?
In France, you can vote from age 18 (the age of majority since 1974). Young French people who have registered for the recensement (national census for young people) are automatically put on the electoral rolls at 18.
For how long is the President of the French Republic elected?
The President is elected for 5 years (the quinquennat, since 2000). Before, it was 7 years (the septennat). The President cannot serve more than two terms in a row.
For how long are the députés elected?
Députés are elected for 5 years, unless the President of the Republic dissolves the Assemblée nationale before the end. Sénateurs are elected for 6 years.
For how long are the sénateurs elected?
Sénateurs are elected for 6 years (9 years before the 2003 reform). Half of the Sénat is renewed every 3 years.
Who holds executive power?
Executive power is shared between the President of the Republic and the Government (led by the Prime Minister). Parliament has legislative power, judges have judicial power.
What condition is necessary to vote in elections?
To vote, you must be French, an adult (18), have your civic rights and be registered on the electoral rolls. EU citizens can also vote in municipal and European elections. There is no condition of wealth or diploma.
Who can vote in elections in France?
The right to vote belongs to adult French people who have their civic rights and are registered on the electoral rolls. Non-EU foreigners do not vote. Women have had the right to vote since 1944.
What does « suffrage universel » (universal suffrage) mean?
Universal suffrage means that all adult citizens can vote, whatever their sex, wealth or origin. Before, there was a « censitaire » suffrage (based on wealth) reserved for the richest.
About political parties, which statement is correct?
Article 4 of the Constitution says that parties « are formed and carry out their activities freely ». They must respect democracy and national sovereignty. Pluralism (several parties) is a guarantee of democracy.
What is the role of the députés?
Députés vote the laws, check the Government and evaluate public policies. They can bring down the Government with a motion de censure (motion of no confidence). Representing the State in the département is the préfet's role.
The separation of powers is a fundamental principle. What are the three powers concerned?
The three powers are: executive (applying the laws), legislative (voting the laws) and judicial (judging). This idea comes from Montesquieu and appears in Article 16 of the DDHC (Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen).
Who holds legislative power?
Legislative power belongs to Parliament, made up of the Assemblée nationale and the Sénat: it votes the laws. Citizens can also vote a law directly by referendum.
Who punishes a person who commits theft?
The judge (the courts) decides the sentence, for example a fine or prison. The police investigate and arrest the offender, but they do not convict. Taking justice into your own hands is forbidden.
Who elects the députés?
Députés are elected directly by the citizens in the législatives. Do not confuse: sénateurs are elected by grands électeurs (local elected officials), so by indirect suffrage.
Who votes the laws?
Laws are voted by Parliament (Assemblée nationale and Sénat). The Government can propose bills, but Parliament votes them. The people can also vote a law by referendum.
Who lives in the Élysée Palace?
The palais de l'Élysée, in Paris, is the official residence of the President of the Republic. The Prime Minister works at the hôtel de Matignon; the Sénat sits in the palais du Luxembourg.
How many départements are there in France?
France has 101 départements: 96 in mainland France and 5 overseas (Guadeloupe, Martinique, Guyane, La Réunion, Mayotte).
Who represents the State in a département?
The préfet (State representative in a département) represents the State in the département. He or she is appointed by the President of the Republic, not elected. The President of the conseil départemental is an elected official of the local authority.
Who runs the commune (municipality)?
The commune is run by the mayor and the conseil municipal, elected for 6 years. The mayor carries out the decisions of the conseil municipal.
Does the President of the Republic have all the powers?
Thanks to the separation of powers, the President can neither vote laws (Parliament's role) nor judge (judges' role). The President must respect the Constitution.
Who is the préfet?
The préfet is a senior civil servant appointed by the President of the Republic in the Conseil des ministres. He or she represents the State and the Government in the département; the préfecture issues residence permits.
What is the role of Parliament?
Parliament votes the law, checks the Government's action and evaluates public policies (Article 24). It also votes the State budget every year.
What is France's political system today?
France is a Republic that is « indivisible, secular, democratic and social » (Article 1). Since 1958, it has been the Ve République (Fifth Republic). The United Kingdom and Spain, on the other hand, are constitutional monarchies.
How many States are members of the European Union on 1 January 2025?
On 1 January 2025, the European Union has 27 member States. It had 28 before the United Kingdom left in 2020.
Which State is not a member of the European Union?
Switzerland is not a member of the European Union, even though it is surrounded by member countries. Belgium, Portugal and Poland are members.
What condition is necessary to vote in the European elections?
To vote in the European elections in France, you must be French or a citizen of another EU country, be 18 and be registered on the electoral rolls. A non-European foreigner cannot vote.
How often are the European elections held?
Members of the European Parliament are elected for 5 years. The last elections took place in June 2024; the next ones are planned for 2029.
Which country is a founding country of the European Union?
The six founding countries (1951-1957) are: France, Germany, Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg. Spain joined in 1986, the United Kingdom in 1973 and Sweden in 1995.
What currency is used in France?
France's currency is the euro (€), which replaced the franc in 2002. It is shared by 20 EU countries (21 with Bulgaria since 1 January 2026).
Who elects the Members of the European Parliament?
Since 1979, Members of the European Parliament have been elected directly by the citizens of the Union, in each member State. France elects 81 of them.
When is Europe Day celebrated?
Europe Day is on 9 May, in memory of Robert Schuman's declaration of 9 May 1950, the starting point of European integration.
What is the name of France's current Constitution?
The current Constitution is that of the Fifth Republic, adopted by referendum and promulgated on 4 October 1958. Tip: « Ve » = 5th Republic, since 1958.
What is the name of the text that sets out the rights and duties of people living in France?
The 1789 Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen sets out everyone's rights; its preamble says that it reminds everyone of « their rights and their duties ». It is part of the current Constitution.
About individual rights, which statement is correct?
The Code civil (Civil Code, art. 9) guarantees everyone respect for their private life, whatever their nationality. Individual rights are the same for women and men.
In which year was the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen written?
The Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen was adopted on 26 August 1789, at the start of the French Revolution. 1958 is the year of the current Constitution.
Which of these rights is a fundamental right?
Freedom of expression is a fundamental right guaranteed by article 11 of the DDHC (Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen). In France, you do not take justice into your own hands: that is the role of the courts.
Which of these texts guarantees rights and freedoms in France?
The 1958 Constitution, with its preamble (which refers to the 1789 DDHC, the 1946 preamble and the Charte de l'environnement – Environmental Charter), guarantees rights and freedoms. The Conseil constitutionnel (Constitutional Council) makes sure they are respected.
What is freedom of expression?
Freedom of expression allows you to say and write what you think (DDHC, art. 11). It has limits set by law: defamation, insults and incitement to hatred are punished.
Which right allows a person to defend themselves in court?
The rights of the defence allow every person to be assisted by a lawyer and to present their arguments to the judge. If you do not have enough money, aide juridictionnelle (legal aid) can pay for the lawyer.
What is the founding text that sets out the rights and duties of every citizen in France?
The 1789 DDHC is the founding text of citizens' rights; it reminds everyone of « their rights and their duties ». It still has constitutional value today.
Which text was adopted during the French Revolution?
The DDHC was adopted on 26 August 1789, a few weeks after the storming of the Bastille. The Edict of Nantes dates from 1598 and the Environmental Charter from 2004.
Which freedom allows a person to have no religion?
Freedom of conscience allows you to believe or not to believe, and to change religion. It is guaranteed by the law of 9 December 1905 and by the DDHC (art. 10).
A woman can have an abortion:
An IVG (interruption volontaire de grossesse – voluntary termination of pregnancy) is possible up to the end of the 14th week of pregnancy (law of 2 March 2022). It is the woman's decision alone; since 2024, this freedom has been written in the Constitution.
Is it always possible to get divorced?
In France, both the husband and the wife can ask for a divorce, even if the other does not agree (for example after one year of separation). The family's agreement is never needed.
The death penalty is:
The death penalty was abolished in France by the law of 9 October 1981, championed by Robert Badinter. Since 2007, the ban has been written in the Constitution (art. 66-1).
About the limits on individual freedoms, which statement is correct?
According to the DDHC (art. 4), liberty consists in doing anything that does not harm others, and its limits are set by law. Tip: « my freedom ends where the freedom of others begins ».
In France, is it legal to be married to several people at the same time?
In France, you cannot enter a second marriage before the first one has ended (Code civil – Civil Code, art. 147). Bigamy is an offence, and polygamy prevents you from getting a carte de résident (resident card).
Should you reduce your waste?
Everyone must take part in protecting the environment (Charte de l'environnement – Environmental Charter, art. 2). Reducing your waste is the first step: the best waste is the waste you do not produce.
Throwing a bottle in the street is:
Leaving rubbish on a public road is a contravention (minor offence), punished by a fine (fixed fine of €135). You must throw your rubbish in a bin.
Why can individual freedoms be limited?
The law can limit freedoms to protect others, safety and public order (DDHC, art. 4 and 5). These limits must be set out by law and be proportionate.
What should a person do in case of an accident?
You must protect (prevent another accident), alert (15 SAMU – medical emergency, 17 police, 18 fire brigade or 112) and help. Failing to help a person in danger is an offence.
What does French citizenship allow?
French citizenship gives political rights: voting and standing as a candidate in all elections, and access to some public-sector jobs. It also brings duties, such as respecting the law and paying taxes.
What does a person who does not respect the law risk?
Not respecting the law exposes you to penalties decided by the courts: a fine, community service or prison, depending on how serious it is. « Ignorance of the law is no excuse ».
What is the role of the gendarmerie?
The gendarmerie nationale is a military force that ensures the safety of people and property, especially in the countryside and small towns. The police nationale works mainly in big cities; both come under the ministère de l'Intérieur (Ministry of the Interior).
What is the role of the police?
The police nationale ensures the safety of people and property, maintains public order and searches for people who commit offences, especially in towns. Judges, not the police, sentence people.
What is an offence (infraction)?
An infraction (offence) is behaviour forbidden by law and punished by a penalty. There are three types, from least to most serious: contravention (minor offence), délit (serious offence), crime (major crime).
How can you reduce your waste?
To reduce your waste, you buy less packaging (loose products, reusable bags), you repair, give away and reuse objects. Burning garden or household waste in the open air is in principle forbidden.
Leaving a broken washing machine on the pavement is:
Leaving a bulky object on the pavement is illegal dumping, punished by a fine. You must take it to the déchetterie (recycling centre), use the town hall's bulky waste collection or give it back to the seller when you buy a new one.
What is human trafficking?
Human trafficking means recruiting, transporting or housing a person in order to exploit them (forced prostitution, forced labour, forced begging…). It is a very serious offence, punished by 7 years in prison and a €150,000 fine, and up to life imprisonment in the most serious cases.
What should a victim of violence do?
A victim of violence can call 17 (or 112) in an emergency and file a complaint at the police station or the gendarmerie. The 3919 helpline gives free and anonymous help to women who are victims of violence.
What is the most serious type of offence?
The crime (murder, rape…) is the most serious offence: it is tried by the cour d'assises (criminal court with a jury) or the cour criminelle départementale (departmental criminal court). Order: contravention < délit < crime.
Leïla is often hit and threatened by her husband. She wants to talk to someone for advice, anonymously and for free. Which number can she call?
3919 (Violences Femmes Info) is a free, anonymous national number, open 24/7, for women who are victims of violence. In immediate danger, call 17.
One evening, Sophie hears screams and blows at her neighbours' home. A woman shouts “Help!”. What should Sophie do immediately?
Domestic violence is not a private matter: it is an offence or a crime. In an emergency, call 17 (police emergency) or 112; you can also send a text message to 114.
Thomas, a teacher, notices that one of his pupils often has bruises and is afraid to go home. Which number can he call to report a child in danger?
119 “Allô Enfance en danger” (children in danger helpline) is free and open 24/7. Anyone can call, even the child. 115 is the emergency housing number, and 15 is the SAMU (emergency medical service).
To punish his 8-year-old son, Thanh slaps and spanks him. He says it is his right as a parent. What does the law say?
The law of 10 July 2019 added to the Code civil that parental authority is exercised “without physical or psychological violence”. Spanking, slapping and humiliation are forbidden, even to discipline a child.
Rosa does not have a residence permit. She is a victim of violence from her partner. Can she file a complaint?
The right to file a complaint belongs to every victim, whatever their nationality or administrative status. A victim of domestic violence can also get protection, and sometimes a residence permit, through a protection order (ordonnance de protection).
Amina goes to the police station to file a complaint against her violent husband. The officer tells her: “It's a family matter, go home.” Does he have the right to refuse?
The police and the gendarmerie must accept victims' complaints, wherever the offence took place. A medical certificate is useful but not required to file a complaint.
Mei's husband forces her to have sex when she refuses. He says it is normal between spouses. What does the law say?
Rape is a crime, whatever the relationship between the perpetrator and the victim, including in marriage. The fact that the perpetrator is the spouse even makes the crime more serious (aggravating circumstance).
Lucas thinks that if a person says nothing and does not resist, they agree to a sexual act. Is he right?
Consent must be free and informed, and it can be withdrawn at any time. Since the law of November 2025, the Code pénal states that consent cannot be deduced from silence or lack of reaction alone.
At work, Ana's boss often makes sexual remarks that make her uncomfortable, even though she has said no. What is this?
Repeatedly imposing remarks with a sexual meaning is sexual harassment, an offence. The employer must protect employees. Ana can alert human resources, the labour inspectorate (inspection du travail) and the Défenseur des droits, and file a complaint.
In the street, a man follows Sarah and makes sexist and humiliating remarks to her. What does the law say?
Sexist and sexual insult (humiliating words or behaviour with a sexual or sexist meaning) is punished by a fine, and becomes an offence (délit) in some cases (for example on public transport or against a minor).
Julie and Ahmed are separated and have a 7-year-old son. Julie wants to move abroad with the child, but Ahmed does not agree. Can she decide alone?
In principle, both parents exercise parental authority together, even after a separation. A move that changes the child's life must be decided together; if they disagree, the family court judge (juge aux affaires familiales) decides.
Karim's daughter has just turned 3. Karim thinks school is only compulsory from age 6. Is he right?
Since the 2019 law “pour une école de la confiance” (for a school of trust), education is compulsory from 3 to 16, for girls and boys, French or foreign.
Kevin, 14, wants to leave collège to work in his uncle's restaurant. Can his parents agree?
Education is compulsory until 16, and parents are responsible for it. After that, from 16 to 18, the young person must be in training (school, apprenticeship, job or service civique, civic service).
Fatou's family plans to have her 6-year-old daughter undergo excision (female genital mutilation) during a holiday in their country of origin. What does French law say?
Female genital mutilation is a crime, punished by up to 15 years in prison when the victim is under 15, and 20 years if the perpetrator is a parent. French law applies even if the excision takes place abroad on a child who usually lives in France. You can alert 119.
Mei arrived in France last year and worked for a few months on a low wage. She thinks she has nothing to declare for taxes. Is she right?
Anyone whose tax residence is in France must declare their income every year, even if in the end they pay no tax. The person must make the first declaration themselves. Paying tax is a citizen's duty (art. 13 DDHC).
A boss offers Karim a job in his company, paid in cash, with no contract and without declaring him. What is this?
Every employer must declare employees before hiring them (DPAE) and give them a payslip. Working “au noir” (off the books) is an offence for the employer, and the employee loses their rights (unemployment benefits, pension, health insurance, protection in case of accident).
Ivan, 30, works full time in a shop. His employer wants to pay him less than the SMIC because he is a foreigner. Is this legal?
The SMIC (national minimum wage) is the minimum hourly wage that every adult employee must receive, whatever their nationality. Paying less because of origin is also discrimination.
Sophie works in a private company. She takes part in a national strike for one day. What happens to her?
The right to strike is guaranteed by the Preamble to the 1946 Constitution. Going on strike cannot justify a sanction or dismissal, but no wages are paid for the time on strike.
Lucas works 39 hours a week, but his contract says 35 hours. His employer only pays him for 35 hours. Is this normal?
The legal working week is 35 hours. Beyond that, hours are overtime, paid at a higher rate (usually +25% for the first 8 hours, +50% after that) or compensated with time off.
Thanh, a Vietnamese national, is stopped by the police in the street. The officers ask for his papers. What should he do?
Foreigners must be able to show the documents that allow them to stay in France during a check. Refusing to obey or running away can make the situation worse. The check must be carried out with respect for the person.
Sophie, a French national, receives a letter: she has been chosen by lot to be a juror at the cour d'assises (criminal court). She does not want to go. What must she do?
Being a juror at the cour d'assises is a civic duty. Without a recognised serious reason, a juror who does not attend can be fined €3,750. Jurors take part in judging crimes together with professional judges.
Thanh is Vietnamese and has lived in France for 15 years with a resident card. He would like to be a juror at the cour d'assises. Is this possible?
Jurors are chosen by lot from people registered on the electoral rolls. So you must be a French national with your civic rights. Thanh could become one if he is naturalised.
Mei's phone was stolen on the bus. She wants to file a complaint. Where can she go?
You can file a complaint at any police station or gendarmerie, for free; you can also write to the procureur de la République (public prosecutor). An online pre-complaint is possible for some thefts. The police cannot refuse the complaint.
Lucas's son, 12, receives humiliating messages from classmates on social media every day. Which free number can Lucas call?
3018 is the free, anonymous national number against school bullying and cyberbullying. School bullying has been an offence since the law of 2 March 2022.
Moussa thinks a public service treated him unfairly and in a discriminatory way. He wants a free and independent remedy. Who can he contact?
The Défenseur des droits is an independent authority written into the Constitution. It defends the rights of public service users, fights discrimination and protects children's rights. Contacting it is free (online, by post or through a local delegate).
At 2 a.m., Karim's neighbour is having a party with very loud music. Karim has already asked him to turn it down, without success. What can he do?
Night-time noise (tapage nocturne) is an offence punished by a fine. After trying to talk, you can call the police or the gendarmerie (17). You must never take the law into your own hands.
Ivan does very noisy building work in his flat every day at 3 p.m. He thinks noise is allowed until 10 p.m. Is he right?
This is a common myth: neighbourhood noise that is too loud, repeated or long can be punished by day as well as by night. Mairies often set hours for noisy work.
To save time, Lucas leaves his old mattress and bags of rubbish on the pavement next to the bins, on a day with no collection. Is this allowed?
Leaving waste on the public street is forbidden and punished by a fine (higher if a vehicle is used). Bulky items must go to the déchetterie (recycling centre) or to the collection organised by the commune.
Kevin does not have a driving licence. He takes his brother's car to go to work. What does he risk?
Driving without a licence is an offence, punished by up to one year in prison and a €15,000 fine. The car can be confiscated. In case of an accident, the insurance can refuse to cover the damage.
Ahmed has a car, but he stopped paying his insurance to save money. He keeps driving. Is this legal?
Every vehicle on the road must be insured, at least with third-party liability (responsabilité civile), to compensate accident victims. Driving without insurance is an offence punished by a fine of up to €3,750.
Mei is going to rent an unfurnished flat for €800 a month, excluding charges. The landlord asks for a €2,400 security deposit. Is this allowed?
For an unfurnished home, the security deposit (dépôt de garantie) cannot be more than one month's rent excluding charges (two months for a furnished one). It must be returned within one month if the move-out inspection (état des lieux de sortie) shows no problem, two months otherwise.
The landlord of the flat Thanh rents kept a key. He enters Thanh's home while he is away, without warning, to “check”. Does he have the right?
The tenant has the right to peaceful enjoyment of the home: it is their home. The landlord cannot enter without the tenant's agreement. Forcing your way into someone's home is a violation of the home (violation de domicile), punished by the Code pénal.
Amina and her husband are looking for housing with their three children. A landlord refuses to rent to them, saying: “I don't want families with children.” Is this legal?
A landlord can check a candidate's income, but cannot refuse because of family situation, origin, religion or name. This is forbidden discrimination; you can contact the Défenseur des droits.
Rachid has several months of unpaid rent. One day, his landlord changes the lock and puts his belongings outside. Is this legal?
Even if the tenant does not pay, the landlord cannot evict them himself: a court decision is needed, carried out by a commissaire de justice (court bailiff). During the trêve hivernale (winter truce, 1 November to 31 March), evictions are in principle suspended.
Mei is not happy with her doctor. A friend tells her she does not have the right to change. Is the friend right?
Free choice of doctor is a patient's right. Mei can change her médecin traitant (regular doctor) at any time by declaring the new one to the Assurance maladie (health insurance), often through the doctor themselves.
Ana's employer calls her doctor to find out what illness she has during her sick leave. Can the doctor answer?
Medical confidentiality (secret médical) protects all information about a patient's health. The doctor cannot reveal it to the employer. The sick note sent to the employer does not state the illness.
Ivan has neither a residence permit nor health insurance. He is badly injured and goes to the emergency department of a public hospital. What happens?
Public hospitals must receive and treat anyone in an emergency, whatever their nationality, administrative status or means. Healthcare staff are bound by medical confidentiality.
Thanh is Vietnamese and has lived in France for 15 years with a resident card. He wants to vote in the presidential election. Can he?
The right to vote in national elections (presidential, legislative, referendum) is reserved for adult French citizens. Thanh will be able to vote if he obtains French nationality.
Ana is Portuguese and has lived in Lyon for five years. In which French elections can she vote?
Citizens of the European Union living in France can vote in municipal and European elections if they are registered on the supplementary electoral rolls. They do not vote in presidential or legislative elections.
In what year did the French Revolution begin?
The French Revolution begins in 1789: the États généraux (Estates General) meet in May, the storming of the Bastille takes place on 14 July, and the Déclaration des droits de l'homme et du citoyen (Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen) is adopted on 26 August.
Who was Napoléon Ier (Napoleon I)?
Napoléon Bonaparte, a general of the Revolution, becomes First Consul in 1799 and then emperor of the French in 1804. Among other things, he created the Code civil (Civil Code, 1804). The guillotined king is Louis XVI; the author of Les Misérables is Victor Hugo.
Which of these historical figures is French?
Jeanne d'Arc (Joan of Arc) is a French heroine of the 15th century who fought the English during the Hundred Years' War. Christopher Columbus was Italian (from Genoa), Lincoln was American and Gandhi was Indian.
Which Republic is France in today?
France has lived under the Ve République (Fifth Republic) since the Constitution of 4 October 1958. There has never been a Sixth Republic.
What is the Shoah?
The Shoah ("catastrophe" in Hebrew) is the extermination of about 6 million European Jews by Nazi Germany and its accomplices between 1941 and 1945. In France, about 76,000 Jews were deported.
Which country or region of the world was colonised by France?
Algeria was a French colony from 1830 until its independence in 1962. Brazil was colonised by Portugal, Australia by the United Kingdom and the Philippines by Spain. Indochina (including Vietnam) was also a French colony.
Who made school free, secular and compulsory?
The Jules Ferry laws of 1881 and 1882 made public primary school free (1881), then compulsory and secular (1882). Remember: "Ferry = school".
When did the Second World War take place?
The Second World War lasts from 1939 to 1945; it ends in Europe on 8 May 1945. 1914-1918 is the First World War, and 1954-1962 is the Algerian War.
When did the First World War take place?
The First World War ("la Grande Guerre", the Great War) lasts from 1914 to 1918. It ends with the armistice of 11 November 1918, which is a public holiday today.
In what year was the European Economic Community (CEE) created?
The CEE (European Economic Community) was created by the Treaty of Rome, signed on 25 March 1957 by six countries, including France. Traps: 1951 = the CECA (European Coal and Steel Community); 1992 = the Maastricht Treaty (European Union).
11 November is a public holiday. What does this date mark?
On 11 November 1918, the armistice ends the fighting of the First World War. Do not confuse it with 8 May (victory of 1945) or 14 July (national holiday).
Who was the first President elected under the Ve République (Fifth Republic)?
Charles de Gaulle is elected president in December 1958, then re-elected in 1965. Pompidou succeeds him in 1969, Giscard d'Estaing in 1974 and Mitterrand in 1981.
In what year was slavery finally abolished in France?
Slavery is finally abolished by the decree of 27 April 1848, thanks to Victor Schœlcher. Trap: a first abolition in 1794 was cancelled by Napoléon Bonaparte in 1802.
Since what year has public school been free?
The Jules Ferry law of 16 June 1881 made public primary school free. The following year (1882), it became compulsory and secular. 1905 is the law separating the Churches and the State.
How many republics has France had?
France has had five republics: the First (1792), the Second (1848), the Third (1870), the Fourth (1946) and the Fifth (since 1958), which is the current one.
Who was the king of France at the time of the French Revolution?
Louis XVI reigns from 1774 to 1792; he is guillotined on 21 January 1793. Louis XIV (the Sun King) and Louis XV were already dead in 1789.
Who founded the Ve République (Fifth Republic)?
In 1958, General de Gaulle has a new Constitution adopted by referendum (28 September 1958): this is the birth of the Fifth Republic. He becomes its first president.
What is celebrated on 14 July?
14 July has been the national holiday since 1880. It recalls the storming of the Bastille (14 July 1789) and the Fête de la Fédération (Festival of the Federation, 14 July 1790). A large military parade takes place in Paris.
Which war took place between 1914 and 1918?
The First World War (1914-1918) killed about 1.4 million French soldiers. It ends with the armistice of 11 November 1918.
Why is the year 1958 important for France?
The Constitution of the Fifth Republic was adopted by referendum on 28 September 1958 and promulgated on 4 October 1958. The war ended in 1945, the death penalty was abolished in 1981 and the euro arrived in 2002.
Which river flows through France?
The Loire is the longest river in France (about 1,000 km). The other major French rivers are the Seine, the Rhône and the Garonne. The Danube, the Nile and the Mekong do not flow through France.
Which city is French?
Bordeaux is a large city in south-west France, on the Garonne river. Trap: French is spoken in Geneva (Switzerland) and Brussels (Belgium), but these cities are not in France. Milan is in Italy.
Which ocean borders the west coast of France?
The Atlantic Ocean borders the west coast of France, from Brittany to the Basque Country. To the south is the Mediterranean Sea; to the north, the Manche (English Channel) and the North Sea.
What is Paris?
Paris is the capital of France and its largest city. The Seine flows through it, and it is home to the major institutions (Élysée, Assemblée nationale, Sénat).
What is the capital of France?
Paris is the capital of France. Lyon and Marseille are large French cities but not the capital; Brussels is the capital of Belgium.
On which continent is metropolitan France located?
Metropolitan France is in Western Europe. Some overseas territories are on other continents (for example Guyane (French Guiana) in South America), but not mainland France.
Which island is a French overseas département?
La Réunion, in the Indian Ocean, is an overseas département and region, like Guadeloupe, Martinique, Guyane (French Guiana) and Mayotte. Madagascar and Mauritius are independent countries; Sicily is Italian.
How many regions are there in metropolitan France?
Since 1 January 2016, metropolitan France has 13 regions (including Corsica). Traps: 18 regions in total with the 5 overseas ones; 22 regions before 2016; 101 is the number of départements.
Which city is a major seaport?
Marseille, on the Mediterranean, is the largest seaport in France. Grenoble, Dijon and Clermont-Ferrand are inland cities, far from the sea.
Which sea lies to the south of metropolitan France?
The Mediterranean borders the south of France (Marseille, Nice, Montpellier, Corsica). The Manche (English Channel) and the North Sea are to the north; the Baltic Sea does not touch France.
Which city is located on the Mediterranean Sea?
Nice is on the Côte d'Azur (French Riviera), on the Mediterranean. Bordeaux and Brest are on the Atlantic side; Lille is in the north, far from the Mediterranean.
Where is Corsica located?
Corsica is a French island in the Mediterranean Sea, south-east of mainland France and north of Sardinia (Italy). It is part of metropolitan France.
Which mountain range lies between France and Italy?
The Alps separate France from Italy (and Switzerland); they include Mont Blanc, the highest peak in France. Trap: the Pyrenees are between France and Spain.
Who was Molière?
Molière (1622-1673) wrote famous comedies such as Le Bourgeois gentilhomme, L'Avare or Le Malade imaginaire. French is called "the language of Molière". La Marseillaise was composed by Rouget de Lisle.
Who was Charles Baudelaire?
Charles Baudelaire (1821-1867) is a great French poet, author of the collection Les Fleurs du mal (The Flowers of Evil, 1857).
Who was George Sand?
George Sand (1804-1876), whose real name was Aurore Dupin, is a French writer who took a man's name to publish her work. She wrote La Mare au diable. Trap: despite the first name "George", she is a woman.
Who was Simone de Beauvoir?
Simone de Beauvoir (1908-1986) is a philosopher and writer, author of Le Deuxième Sexe (The Second Sex, 1949), a major book of feminism. Trap: the abortion law was championed by Simone Veil; the double Nobel winner is Marie Curie.
Who was Albert Camus?
Albert Camus (1913-1960), born in Algeria, is the author of L'Étranger (The Stranger) and La Peste (The Plague). He received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1957.
Who was Paul Cézanne?
Paul Cézanne (1839-1906), born in Aix-en-Provence, is a Post-Impressionist painter. He often painted the Montagne Sainte-Victoire and still lifes.
Who was Marc Chagall?
Marc Chagall (1887-1985), born in the Russian Empire (now Belarus), is a painter who became a naturalised French citizen in 1937. Among other works, he painted the ceiling of the Opéra Garnier in Paris.
Who was Joséphine Baker?
Joséphine Baker (1906-1975), born in the United States, became French in 1937. A famous singer and dancer, she was also a member of the Resistance during the Second World War. She entered the Panthéon in 2021.
Who was a famous French singer?
Édith Piaf (1915-1963) is a great French singer, known for La Vie en rose and Non, je ne regrette rien. Marie Curie was a scientist, Jeanne d'Arc a heroine of the Middle Ages, and George Sand a writer.
What is the Louvre?
The Louvre, a former palace of the kings of France, is today one of the largest museums in the world; the Mona Lisa (La Joconde) is there. The President of the Republic lives in the Élysée Palace.
Who was Jean de la Fontaine?
Jean de La Fontaine (1621-1695) is famous for his Fables, such as Le Corbeau et le Renard (The Crow and the Fox) or La Cigale et la Fourmi (The Ant and the Grasshopper), which children learn at school. The Eiffel Tower is the work of Gustave Eiffel.
Which writer is French?
Victor Hugo (1802-1885) is the author of Les Misérables and Notre-Dame de Paris; he is buried in the Panthéon. Shakespeare was English, Cervantes Spanish and Goethe German.
In which city is the Eiffel Tower?
The Eiffel Tower was built in Paris by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 World's Fair (Exposition universelle). It is the best-known monument in France.
When is Christmas (Noël) celebrated?
Christmas (Noël) is celebrated on 25 December; it is a public holiday in France. 1 January is New Year's Day, 14 July the national holiday and 1 November All Saints' Day (la Toussaint).
Which emergency number do you call to reach the SAMU (emergency medical service)?
15 is the number to call the SAMU for a medical emergency. 17 is the police, 18 the fire brigade, 115 the Samu social (emergency housing). 112 also works all over Europe.
Which emergency number do you call to reach the fire brigade?
18 is the number to call the sapeurs-pompiers (firefighters) (fire, accident, person in danger). 15 is the SAMU, 17 the police, 119 children in danger.
After getting your driving licence, what must you do to be able to drive your car?
To be driven on the road, a car must be insured (at least « au tiers », third-party insurance) and have a carte grise (registration certificate). Driving without insurance is an offence.
Under what conditions is a marriage legally recognised?
In France, only a civil marriage, held by an officier d'état civil (civil registrar) at the mairie, has legal value. Both spouses must be at least 18 and give their free consent; forced marriage is forbidden.
When must you declare your child to the civil registry office at the mairie?
Declaring a birth is compulsory within 5 days after the delivery (the day of birth does not count), at the mairie of the place of birth. The maternity ward often helps with this step.
Undeclared work is:
Undeclared work (« travail dissimulé » or « au noir », working off the books) is an offence punished by law, especially for the employer. An undeclared employee has no social protection and no pension rights.
What must an employer do to set a salary?
The salary is set in the employment contract, but it can never be lower than the SMIC (minimum wage) or the minimums of the convention collective (collective agreement). Any pay difference based on origin or sex is forbidden discrimination.
What is the SMIC?
The SMIC (salaire minimum interprofessionnel de croissance, national minimum wage) is the minimum hourly wage that every employer must pay. It is increased at least once a year, on 1 January.
What is the first step to take when looking for a job?
France Travail (the public employment service, formerly Pôle emploi) registers jobseekers and offers job ads and support. The CAF pays family benefits and the préfecture issues residence permits.
What is the legal working time per week?
The legal working time is 35 hours per week for a full-time job (since the Aubry laws, 2000). Beyond that, it is overtime. 48 hours is, in principle, the maximum in any one week.
Who is helped by France Travail?
France Travail helps all people looking for a job (French people or foreigners allowed to work) and also companies that are hiring. It also pays unemployment benefits.
A foreign person legally resident in France can start a business:
A legally resident foreigner can start a business if the residence permit allows it (for example a carte de résident (resident card), or an « entrepreneur/profession libérale » card). He or she does not need a French partner.
Can a woman start her own business?
Equality between women and men is a principle of the Republic. Since 1965, a married woman can work in a profession and manage her property without her husband's permission.
From what age can a minor work?
In principle, you can work from 16, the age when compulsory education ends. Exception: from 14, a young person can do small, light jobs during the school holidays, with the agreement of his or her parents and the labour inspectorate.
Which body do you ask to reimburse your healthcare costs?
Healthcare costs are reimbursed by the Assurance maladie, through the local office (CPAM) of your département. The CAF pays family and housing benefits, not reimbursements for medical care.
What is an emergency number?
Emergency numbers (15, 17, 18, 112, 114 by text message) are free and work day and night, even with no phone credit, for a dangerous situation. You must not call them without a real emergency.
About access to healthcare, which statement is correct?
Thanks to the protection universelle maladie (PUMa, universal health protection), anyone who works or lives in France on a stable and legal basis has the right to the Assurance maladie. Refusing to treat someone because of religion or origin is forbidden discrimination.
For a non-urgent health problem, who should you contact first?
For a non-urgent problem, you first see your médecin traitant (regular doctor). The emergency department, 15 and 18 are for serious situations. If your doctor is not available, you can call the out-of-hours medical service.
What is the role of the médecin traitant (regular doctor)?
The médecin traitant, registered with the Assurance maladie, coordinates the care pathway: he or she follows the patient and refers him or her to a specialist if necessary. Without a registered médecin traitant, you are reimbursed less.
In which situations should you go to the hospital emergency department?
The emergency department is for serious and sudden situations: accident, severe pain, fainting, difficulty breathing. For everything else, see your doctor. If in doubt, you can call 15.
What is the aim of compulsory vaccinations?
Vaccination protects the vaccinated person and others too, by limiting the spread of contagious diseases. Since 2018, 11 vaccines have been compulsory for young children (needed for the crèche (nursery) and school).
What is the carte Vitale (health insurance card) used for?
The carte Vitale holds the insured person's information. When you show it at the doctor's or the pharmacy, the treatment form is sent directly to the Assurance maladie and you are reimbursed within a few days. It is not an identity document.
What is a mutuelle (top-up health insurance) for?
The Assurance maladie does not reimburse everything. The mutuelle (complémentaire santé, top-up health insurance) pays all or part of the rest. Private-sector employees are entitled to one through their employer, and the Complémentaire santé solidaire helps people on low incomes.
Up to what age is school compulsory?
Education is compulsory from 3 to 16 for all children living in France. Between 16 and 18, there is then an obligation to be in training (studies, apprenticeship, employment or service civique (civic service)).
Parental authority includes the obligation:
Parental authority is the set of rights and duties parents have to protect the child (safety, health, morality) and ensure his or her education and development. It is exercised without physical or psychological violence.
For whom is school compulsory?
Education is compulsory for all children, girls and boys, French and foreign, who live in France, from 3 to 16. The parents' immigration status does not matter.
What diploma do you get at the end of the lycée (high school)?
The baccalauréat (« le bac ») is taken at the end of the lycée and gives access to higher education. The brevet is taken at the end of the collège (middle school); the licence is a university degree.
Which schools do pupils go to after primary school?
After école élémentaire (primary school, from CP to CM2), pupils go to the collège for 4 years (from 6e to 3e), then to the lycée. Order to remember: maternelle, élémentaire, collège, lycée.
For whom is school compulsory?
Education is compulsory for all children living in France, whatever their nationality, place of birth or language. Since 2019, it has started at age 3 (no longer 6).
A child enrolled at school:
An enrolled pupil must attend regularly: he or she goes to class on all school days and takes all subjects. Every absence must be justified by the parents; repeated absences without a reason are reported.
Children who do not speak French:
Children who speak another language are enrolled at school like the others. They attend an ordinary class and get support in French, often in a special unit (UPE2A).
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