The #1 Reason France Wants MORE Americans to Move There — Consul General Adrien Frier Explains

In what might be the most important interview we've ever filmed, Richard Hammond sat down with Adrien Frier, the Consul General de France in Los Angeles, for a candid conversation about why France is actively seeking American immigrants — and what it takes to make the move successfully.

Why France Wants More Americans

According to Consul General Frier, France's desire to welcome Americans is rooted in strategy, not sentiment. He references a recent French Senate report which concluded that immigration is a vital way for France to grow stronger as a country and an economy.

France is actively looking for people who want to "set foot in France, stay in France," and contribute to the "French national project." The Consul General specifically highlighted Americans' innovation, professional background, and ability to contribute as qualities that align with what France is seeking.

The Consul General's Three Pillars

Adrien Frier explained that his role as Consul General covers a vast territory — Southern California, Nevada, Arizona, Colorado, and New Mexico — and is built on three pillars:

1. Servicing the French Community: Passports, IDs, social benefits, voting facilitation, and assistance with local authorities for French citizens abroad.
2. Diplomatic Relations: Engaging with local governments on foreign and economic relations.
3. Promoting France: Enhancing France's image through cultural events, educational programs, and attracting tourism and investment.

The Critical Importance of Language

Both Richard and the Consul General stressed that learning French is absolutely non-negotiable for true integration. What Americans might perceive as "rudeness" in France is often just a stricter adherence to formality and different social norms — understanding the language unlocks understanding the culture.

"If you want to truly integrate, navigate the bureaucracy, and be accepted by the local community — you must commit to learning the language."

Respecting the French System

France has a very structured, sometimes bureaucratic system with specific rules and formalities. The Consul General's message was clear: expats need to be prepared to navigate this system patiently and respect French cultural norms rather than expecting things to operate as they do in the US.

This is exactly why services like ours exist — we bridge that gap between American expectations and French administrative reality, handling the complexity so you can focus on enjoying your new life.

Bastille Day and French Values

The interview also touched on the significance of Bastille Day (July 14th), which commemorates not just the storming of the Bastille in 1789, but also a moment of national unity and reconciliation a year later. The Consul General tied this to the core French values of "Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité" — values that continue to define French society today.

Key Takeaways for Americans Considering the Move

• France is open and welcoming: The French government actively wants Americans who will contribute to French society.
• Integration requires commitment: Moving to France is not just a change of scenery — it requires adapting to a different culture.
• Language is the key: Learning French is the single most important thing you can do for a successful move.
• Respect the system: French bureaucracy has its own logic — patience and preparation are essential.
• Professional support makes the difference: Having experts who understand both systems can transform a stressful process into a smooth transition.