The most frequently asked questions about the Foreign Legion.
Do I have to change my name?
Yes. Real identity can be recovered within a minimum of 6 months, the procedure is called Regularization of Military Situation. The process of regularizing the military situation is initiated as soon as the person concerned is able to provide the administrative and official acts requested by the French administration.
At what age can i be recruited?
We recruit from 17 to 39 years old and 6 months with no exception. For candidates under 18 years old, a handwritten authorization from both parents or legal guardians and a copy of their ID are necessary.
What documents do I need to take for recruitment?
The presentation of all identity documents (valid) produced by the candidate's country of origin is requested in order to facilitate the selection and recruitment process (identity card, passport, driving license, diplomas state…) for E.U. candidates. For other candidates, the passport is required. No copy, no travel document or residence permit. In all cases, a birth certificate or extract with filiation will be required before the end of the first year of the contract.
Can a foreign legionnaire become French?
Yes. A foreign legionnaire can apply for French nationality after five years of service. If he serves well, he will be entitled to a residence permit at first, the nationality will be given to him conditionally. This is generally granted, subject to having a good way of serving and having proven its willingness to integrate into the French Nation.
Is the Legion tougher than other armies?
No. The Legion just applies the regulations in force. The amalgamation of nationalities requires cohesion in the effort. Hence the involvement of management in forging this "esprit de corps" through effort.
Can my family know where I am?
Yes. You just have to indicate your commitment. During the 4 months of training, you can join your family to reassure them.
What are the specific constraints?
Wearing civilian clothes: Any legionnaire with less than 5 years of service must wear the uniform during free time. Within the framework of long-term leaves, the legionnaire can be in civilian clothes. Purchase of a motor vehicle : subject to command authorization after 3 years of service.
Marriage: a legionary will only be authorized to marry after having complied with the following conditions:
- To serve under his true identity (thus to be regularized of military situation);
- having informed the command;
- Less than 5 years of service: authorization from the Minister of Defense
During my vacation, can I go abroad?
Yes. After having made the request like any military. To be authorized to go abroad, either to his country of origin or to a third country, a legionary must have an identity document from his country of origin, serve under his true identity and therefore have been “ regularized military status ”(see answer to question number 2).
Is there a structure for legionaries on vacation?
Yes. The legionaries have a Rest Center. (Marseille and La Ciotat) allowing you to stay in France.
I never served in the army, can I enlist?
Yes. The Legion will train you to become a soldier and a citizen.
Can legion help me to go to France for recruitment?
The Foreign Legion does not intervene in the administrative procedures of recruitment candidates. These procedures are the sole responsibility of the candidate. The Foreign Legion does not provide visas, invitations, or plane tickets. We do not issue letters of recommendation or sponsorship. There is no need to mention the desire to be recruited by the Foreign Legion in a visa application.