Bonjour!
Preparing for the interview in French to obtain Swiss nationality is a crucial step in the naturalisation process. Here’s a guide to help you get ready, especially if you're applying for ordinary naturalisation or facilitated naturalisation and live in the French-speaking part of Switzerland (e.g., Geneva, Vaud, Neuchâtel, Fribourg, etc.).
1. Understand the Purpose of the Interview
The interview in French assesses:
- Language proficiency (usually B1 oral, A2 written for ordinary naturalisation)
- Integration into Swiss life
- Knowledge of Swiss society, politics, history, and geography
- Respect for Swiss values and laws
2. Practice Your French (Oral + Written)
The goal here is to be confident in conversational French.
- Focus on everyday vocabulary: family, work, hobbies, living situation
- Practice self-introduction: name, origin, profession, why you want to become Swiss
- Use language learning platforms (like TV5MONDE, Duolingo, Babbel)
- Have mock interviews with a French speaker or a French tutor
3. Learn About Switzerland
Prepare for questions like:
- What are the three levels of government in Switzerland?
- Can you name some Swiss cantons or cities?
- Who is a well-known Swiss personality?
- What are some Swiss traditions or holidays?
- What are your rights and duties as a Swiss citizen?
Use resources:
- Fédération suisse pour la formation continue (FSEA)
- Cantonal or communal guides for naturalisation
- Civics handbooks provided by your commune
4. Know Your Commune and Canton
They might ask:
- What do you like about your commune?
- How do you participate in community life?
- What are local associations or festivals?
Research:
- Local website (e.g., mairie or commune site)
- Attend local events or meetings if possible
5. Review Your Application
They might refer to:
- Your reasons for applying
- Your family situation
- Your professional background
Be ready to speak confidently and clearly about your motivation.
6. Sample Questions in French
Here are examples of what you might be asked:
- Présentez-vous. Pourquoi voulez-vous devenir suisse ?
- Que faites-vous dans la vie ?
- Depuis combien de temps habitez-vous en Suisse ? Dans cette commune ?
- Quels sont vos loisirs ?
- Connaissez-vous quelques personnalités suisses ?
- Quelles sont les obligations d’un citoyen suisse ?
- Avez-vous des amis suisses ? Participez-vous à la vie locale ?
Final Tips
- Be authentic and respectful in your answers
- Show you understand and embrace Swiss values
- Wear appropriate attire and be punctual
- Take the FIDE language certificate or equivalent if needed
Please note that spouses of Swiss citizens residing abroad may, after several years of marriage, apply for Swiss nationality. This procedure requires learning French at a lower level than applying for naturalization in the country, as the required level is A1/A2 (basic user level). For more information, you can check this link :
Online language courses from A1 to B1 with French via Skype, how does it work?
French via Skype offers individual online A1 to B1 materials and assessments to help you better understand the language and feel prepared for the interview in French to obtain Swiss nationality.
Our online courses are delivered via Zoom or Teams or on the platform of your choice covering all aspects of the French language in order to best support you in your objectives.
- We will design a personalized study plan for you, based on your specific needs and your language level.
- We offer an effective preparation with tailored learning materials (full range of A1 to B1 ressources and assessments).
- Our French lessons target key areas such as listening and speaking and meticulously work on each grammar point such as French connectors or the subjunctive to ensure that each area meets the requirements required for needed level.
- For homework, we will assign you work to practice grammar, develop your vocabulary and prepare oral comprehension, and oral production tasks. The homework will then be prepared and reviewed by your French tutor.
- We offer you great planning flexibility. Our French tutor is available all year, during the holidays and after work hours.
At French via Skype, we are happy to support many expatriates to guarantee their success at the interview in French to obtain Swiss nationality.
Some testimonials from students who have prepared for the interview in French with us are below.
“ Laure helped me prepare for my Fide exam in a very short time (5 weeks). I knew that this exam was coming up and that I had no choice but to take it, so I contacted her although I was not very motivated. Laure showed great patience and I immediately felt that she knew my profile well. She was able to motivate and encourage me while giving me hope that I would be able to pass this exam. Her method is based on simulation of a real exam situation, with real exam questions. She shared various useful tools to help prepare for the specific levels (A1 and A2). Laure not only helped me take the exam but she also makes sure that you apply the language in your daily life. Laure constantly supported me and I can never thank her enough for all the efforts she made to help me. I definitely recommend Laure to anyone who needs to take the Fide, and wish to learn in a supportive, positive environment.“
Alban Pilanevic
Consultant - Geneva
“ I undertook 3 months of lessons to prior my FIDE test with Laure and was amazed by how much my French improved over this time. From A1 level that I had more or less acquired with an app, I had to reach B1 for the test. I owe a great deal of gratitude to Laure without her focused preparation, insightful guidance, and structured lessons, I would not have done nearly as well with fide without her. Even after the test, I am continuing my lessons with Laure, I enjoy them so much, and I am so delighted to now be able to get by in French in any daily situation.I highly recommend her expertise to anyone aiming to pass the French FIDE test and to anyone interested in learning French regardless of their skill level. Merci beaucoup! ”
Roxana T
Supply chain officer - Geneva
“ I can’t thank Laure enough for helping me prepare for my Swiss nationality interview. When we started, I didn’t have the required A2 level, and I was really nervous about speaking confidently in French. Thanks to Laure’s patient and focused guidance, we worked step by step to build my language skills, practice real interview scenarios, and boost my confidence. I reached A2 level, passed the interview and I’m now officially a Swiss citizen. I’m so grateful for Laure support throughout the entire journey. I couldn’t have done it without her. “
Caroline Roberts
Ingineer - London
At French via Skype, we specialize in preparation for the interview in French as well as the French FIDE test , you can certify your French language level well-equipped and with complete confidence.
If you would like to discuss your needs with us, we will be pleased to develop a teaching plan for you.
Do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or if you would like to sign up for lessons.
À bientôt !
