The #1 reason France wants MORE Americans to move there - Adrien Frier
By Richard Hammond | Published 2026-08-09
Have you ever wondered how France truly views American expatriates? Recently, our CEO and Founder, Richard Hammond, sat down for an exclusive conversation with Adrien Frier, the Consul General of France in Los Angeles. In this wide-ranging discussion, we explore the reality of French immigration, what the Consulate looks for in visa applicants, and why France genuinely welcomes Americans who wish to build a new life across the Atlantic.
⏱ Key Moments in This Video
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- 0:00 — Meeting Adrien Frier, Consul General of France in Los Angeles
- 1:34 — What does the Consul General do and why is the role important?
- 3:11 — The three main roles of the French Consulate
- 4:41 — The unique services the Consulate provides for French citizens in the USA
- 7:27 — Promoting France and strengthening French influence in America
- 9:21 — Moving to France and how France feels about Americans relocating
- 11:55 — Why France welcomes Americans who want to move there
- 13:30 — Why France is so attractive to American retirees
- 14:40 — Will political changes make it harder to move to France?
- 16:15 — Visa advice for people applying to move to France
- 17:24 — How French visa and citizenship applications are assessed
- 18:19 — Why integration and speaking French matter
- 20:29 — French values and what it really means to integrate into France
- 23:46 — Why preserving the French language matters globally
- 26:09 — Do you need to speak perfect French to move to France?
- 27:44 — Can Americans move safely to France?
- 29:10 — French healthcare, law changes and concerns from Americans moving to France
- 30:45 — What newcomers need to contribute to access the French system
- 32:22 — The France–USA pension agreement and why it matters
- 33:09 — The historic relationship between France and the USA
- 34:22 — Why the France–USA relationship goes beyond politics
- 36:58 — Best advice for Americans preparing to move to France
- 38:10 — France is not just Paris — choosing the right place to live
- 39:13 — The true meaning of Bastille Day
- 42:11 — Bastille Day in Los Angeles and the road to the 2028 Olympics
- 45:31 — Why more Americans are moving to France
Key Takeaways from This Video
- Historical Welcome: France has thrived for centuries thanks to immigration, and American newcomers bring valuable cultural and economic dynamism.
- The Role of the Consulate: Understanding the functions of the French Consulate helps simplify your administrative journey.
- Integration is Key: While you do not need to speak fluent French on day one, showing a genuine effort to learn the language and embrace local values is essential.
- Beyond Paris: France offers diverse regions, lifestyle paces, and communities that stretch far beyond the capital.
- Safety and Healthcare: France provides a secure environment and robust healthcare, provided newcomers properly contribute to the system.
Inside the French Consulate and Visa Realities
In the opening segments of the interview (0:00 to 7:27), Adrien Frier outlines the critical functions of the French Consulate in the United States, shedding light on a process that often feels mysterious to prospective expats. The Consulate acts as a vital bridge, not only assisting French citizens abroad but also managing the gateway for Americans eager to experience French culture firsthand.
When discussing visa applications (16:15 to 18:19), the Consul General emphasises that applications are assessed thoroughly to ensure candidates are well-prepared for the realities of living in France. Whether you are applying for a long-stay visitor visa or looking into the intricacies of French visa types, preparation is everything. Navigating these bureaucratic steps requires patience and precision, which is why understanding the official expectations can make or break your application.
Integration, Culture, and Choosing Where to Live
A major focus of the conversation revolves around integration and the French language (18:19 to 26:09). Mr Frier points out that preserving the French language is a global priority, but reassurance is given to those worried about their fluency: you do not need to speak perfect French to move (26:09). What matters most to French authorities and local communities is your willingness to integrate, respect local values, and engage with your neighbours.
Furthermore, the discussion highlights that France extends far beyond the borders of Paris (38:10). Finding the right region depends heavily on your lifestyle goals, budget, and personal preferences—factors we frequently explore when evaluating the cost of living in France. Before making the leap, comprehensive relocation planning is vital to ensure a smooth transition. If you are unsure where to start, you can test your eligibility using our interactive visa checker tool.
Next Steps
Relocating to France is an exciting journey, but you do not have to navigate the administrative landscape alone. At French Connections HCB, our experienced team provides tailored guidance from your initial visa application right through to settling into your dream French home.
Ready to turn your French dream into reality? Get a personalised relocation quote today or chat with our friendly team directly via WhatsApp.