Apply for a Real French Passport Online 2026: ANTS Portal & New Fees
The French passport is one of the most respected travel documents globally, offering seamless access across the Schengen Area and beyond. In 2026, the French government has fully integrated the ANTS (Agence Nationale des Titres Sécurisés) portal to handle all “pre-applications.”
However, a common misconception is that you can receive a passport entirely by mail. To apply for a real French passport online, you must follow a “hybrid” process: digital data entry followed by a physical biometric appointment.
1. The 2026 Fee Structure: The Digital Tax Stamp
Before you begin your online form, you must purchase a Timbre Fiscal (tax stamp). In 2026, these are almost exclusively digital.
- Adults (18+): €86
- Minors (15–17): €42
- Minors (0–14): €17
- Where to buy: Directly on the timbres.impots.gouv.fr website. You will receive a 16-digit code or a QR code via email/SMS, which you must link to your online application.
2. The Online “Pre-Application” (Pré-demande)
The official “online” part happens at passeport.ants.gouv.fr.
- Create an Account: Use FranceConnect for the most secure and fastest login.
- Fill the Form: Enter your vitals, parentage, and the 16-digit tax stamp code.
- Get Your QR Code: Once submitted, you will receive a Pre-application Number. Do not lose this. You must bring this number (or the printed summary) to your in-person appointment.
3. The Mandatory In-Person Appointment
Even though you started online, French law requires a physical presence to collect fingerprints and verify your identity.
- In France: You can book an appointment at any Mairie (town hall) equipped with a biometric station, regardless of where you live.
- Abroad: You must book through your local French Consulate or Embassy.
- New for 2026: Many major consulates (London, New York, Montreal) now offer a videoconference option for the pre-check phase, but you still must appear in person to scan your fingerprints.
4. Supporting Documents Checklist
During your appointment, you must provide:
- Your QR Code/Pre-application Number.
- A Biometric Photo: Taken within the last 6 months. Pro Tip: Use a “Photo-Signature Numérique” booth to get a digital code that links directly to your ANTS file.
- Proof of Address: A utility bill or tax notice less than one year old.
- Your Old Passport: If renewing. If it expired more than 5 years ago, you may also need a Birth Certificate (less than 3 months old).
5. Special 2026 Note: New Language Requirements
If you are applying for your first French passport following naturalization, be aware of the 2026 shift. The French government has raised the minimum language requirement for citizenship from B1 to B2 (Upper Intermediate). Ensure your language certificates are up to date before starting the passport phase.
How Mercurial Global Passport Can Help
Navigating the ANTS system and securing “Rendez-vous” slots can be a full-time job. At Mercurial Global Passport, we offer:
- ANTS Concierge Service: We handle the digital pre-application and tax stamp purchase for you.
- Document Legalization: Our Diploma Shop platform specializes in translating birth certificates and naturalization decrees into French-compliant formats.
- Global Appointment Scouting: We use automated tools to find the earliest available slots at Mairies or Consulates worldwide, saving you weeks of waiting.
[Start Your French Passport Application with Global Experts]