Renewing a **10-year resident card** (*carte de résident*) in 2026 is a streamlined but strict process. Since the card is already a long-term permit, the "renewal" is technically a request for a new 10-year card or, in some cases, an upgrade to a permanent card. Here is exactly how to do it: ### 1. Where and When to Apply * **The Platform:** In 2026, almost all prefectures require you to apply online via the **ANEF portal**. Paper dossiers are rarely accepted unless there is a verified technical bug on the website. * **The Window:** You must submit the application between **4 months and 2 months** before the current card expires. * **Late Penalty:** If you apply after the expiration date (or less than 2 months before), you will be charged a **€180 "regularization" fee** in addition to the standard card cost. ### 2. The Choice: 10-Year vs. Permanent When you renew, you typically have two options: * **Standard Renewal:** You receive another 10-year card. * **Permanent Resident Card:** If you already have a 10-year card, you can ask for a *Carte de résident permanent* (valid for life, though the physical plastic must be refreshed every 10 years). > [!IMPORTANT] > **New 2026 Language Rule:** For a **standard renewal** of an existing 10-year card, you are generally **exempt** from the new B1 language test. However, if you are applying for a **Permanent** card for the first time, you must now prove a **B1 level** of French and pass the new **civic exam**. > ### 3. Required Documents You will need digital scans of the following: * **Current Card:** Front and back of the 10-year *carte de séjour*. * **Passport:** Identity page and any pages with recent entry/exit stamps. * **Proof of Residence:** A utility bill, rent receipt (*quittance de loyer*), or tax notice from the last 6 months. * **E-Photo:** A digital passport photo with the 22-digit "e-photo" code (available at certified booths/photographers). * **Contract of Engagement:** A new 2026 requirement where you sign a digital form promising to respect the principles of the French Republic. * **Financial Proof:** Recent tax notices (*avis d'imposition*) to show you still meet the conditions of residency. ### 4. Costs The total cost is **€225**, payable via a **timbre fiscal** (digital tax stamp). * You can buy this at a *Tabac* or online at timbres.impots.gouv.fr. * *Note: You do not need the stamp to apply; you only need it on the day you pick up the physical card at the prefecture.* ### 5. The Process After Applying 1. **Submission:** You will receive a *Confirmation de dépôt* (Submission confirmation) immediately. 2. **API (The Receipt):** Once the prefecture begins processing, you will receive an **API** (*Attestation de Prolongation d’Instruction*). This document acts as your legal "récépissé" and allows you to travel and work. 3. **Collection:** When the card is ready, you will receive an SMS. You must then book a "remise de titre" appointment at your local prefecture to pick it up. Does the person have a specific status (e.g., spouse of a French citizen, refugee, or retiree) that might change their document list? Renewing a **10-year resident card** (*carte de résident*) in 2026 is a streamlined but strict process. Since the card is already a long-term permit, the "renewal" is technically a request for a new 10-year card or, in some cases, an upgrade to a permanent card. Here is exactly how to do it: ### 1. Where and When to Apply * **The Platform:** In 2026, almost all prefectures require you to apply online via the **ANEF portal**. Paper dossiers are rarely accepted unless there is a verified technical bug on the website. * **The Window:** You must submit the application between **4 months and 2 months** before the current card expires. * **Late Penalty:** If you apply after the expiration date (or less than 2 months before), you will be charged a **€180 "regularization" fee** in addition to the standard card cost. ### 2. The Choice: 10-Year vs. Permanent When you renew, you typically have two options: * **Standard Renewal:** You receive another 10-year card. * **Permanent Resident Card:** If you already have a 10-year card, you can ask for a *Carte de résident permanent* (valid for life, though the physical plastic must be refreshed every 10 years). > [!IMPORTANT] > **New 2026 Language Rule:** For a **standard renewal** of an existing 10-year card, you are generally **exempt** from the new B1 language test. However, if you are applying for a **Permanent** card for the first time, you must now prove a **B1 level** of French and pass the new **civic exam**. > ### 3. Required Documents You will need digital scans of the following: * **Current Card:** Front and back of the 10-year *carte de séjour*. * **Passport:** Identity page and any pages with recent entry/exit stamps. * **Proof of Residence:** A utility bill, rent receipt (*quittance de loyer*), or tax notice from the last 6 months. * **E-Photo:** A digital passport photo with the 22-digit "e-photo" code (available at certified booths/photographers). * **Contract of Engagement:** A new 2026 requirement where you sign a digital form promising to respect the principles of the French Republic. * **Financial Proof:** Recent tax notices (*avis d'imposition*) to show you still meet the conditions of residency. ### 4. Costs The total cost is **€225**, payable via a **timbre fiscal** (digital tax stamp). * You can buy this at a *Tabac* or online at timbres.impots.gouv.fr. * *Note: You do not need the stamp to apply; you only need it on the day you pick up the physical card at the prefecture.* ### 5. The Process After Applying 1. **Submission:** You will receive a *Confirmation de dépôt* (Submission confirmation) immediately. 2. **API (The Receipt):** Once the prefecture begins processing, you will receive an **API** (*Attestation de Prolongation d’Instruction*). This document acts as your legal "récépissé" and allows you to travel and work. 3. **Collection:** When the card is ready, you will receive an SMS. You must then book a "remise de titre" appointment at your local prefecture to pick it up. Does the person have a specific status (e.g., spouse of a French citizen, refugee, or retiree) that might change their document list?