How to Emigrate from the United States to France

Emigrating to France requires careful preparation.

It is a life-changing decision to leave your country of origin to a foreign country. Take time to make the decision and weigh crucial factors. These might include visas, the language, finding living accommodations, finding employment, embedding yourself in a foreign culture and a host of other considerations. Once you have decided that this is what you want, the real work begins. It will take time to organize a move across the Atlantic.

Things You'll Need

• Valid passport
• Proof of means of support and accommodation arrangements
• Visa

Instructions

1. Research where you will live in France and where you will work, if that applies to you. You should also investigate details about French life and customs. Be sure to acquaint yourself with basic French language. If you plan to work in France, your future employer must contact The Ministry of Labor for authorization to work in France. Keep in mind that there is a great deal of cost involved with any major move.

2. Prepare your documentation. There are many forms of identification and other papers that must be arranged prior to moving to France. Gather passports, proof of income for the duration of the stay, proof of accommodations and visas. This is crucial. There are different visas to be obtained for different lengths and types of visits to France. Information can be obtained from the Consulate General of France in Washington and specific state information for visas is available from Consulates of France in the United States. The implication is that you have determined where you will live in France and how you will support yourself and your family.

3. Be knowledgeable of French Customs. Moving to France entails bringing your belongings--anything from personal effects to a car--into France. You must follow France's regulations regarding Customs. You will want to be informed about medicines, pets, plants, food, or anything that you want to bring into the country. The French Embassy website offers all the details you must consider and what actions to take as you organize your move.

4. Prepare for your move include acquainting yourself with driving and transportation in France, the French cost of living, the Euro and the metric system. The French Embassy offers a wealth of information and support for visitors and emigrants.

5. Find a community of expatriates. You have made a life altering decision that will only take hold once you are in your new country. You may experience symptoms of grief, which is completely natural. This is not a vacation. You are saying "good-bye" to the country of your birth. Give yourself and your family time to adjust. Don't expect adjustment to occur overnight. TransitionsAbroad.com offers a wide range of support for your new life.

Tips & Warnings

• These steps offer a springboard for other actions necessary as you navigate your way from the United States to France.

• Even if you live there for the rest of your life, you will be a guest in France. Conduct yourself as a respectful guest. It is not acceptable to act arrogant. Make an effort to understand that France is a delightful country with a rich and very old history. The French people are varied in their customs and dialects and deserve to be treated with dignity.

Resources

• Embassy of France
• TransitionsAbroad.com