France has always held a special place in the hearts of our American and Canadian friends across the pond. It seems that everything France has to offer appeals to them, from the sophistication of Paris to the quaint rural villages boasting a long, fascinating history and culture.
Elections have a habit of inspiring people to reflect on their lives and wonder about moving abroad. Couple that with economic uncertainty and political turmoil and you can see why many US citizens are looking to countries such as France in which to invest.
The interest in France for Americans has increased massively since before the recent US election.
There’s been rush of Americans and Canadians looking to move to France
What’s behind the surge
The interest in France for Americans has increased massively over the last couple of years. France stands out as one of the most appealing countries for Americans. The reasons are many: the cultural heritage, the gastronomy, the vineyards, the beauty of the countryside, the charming hamlets dotted about the countryside are some. Americans often feel bereft when it comes to history since their own does not go back quite as far! They marvel at the many still preserved medieval chateaux and historical buildings scattered across France. There is a richness to France which some feel is lacking in the USA.
Many Americans in search of a better quality of life also look towards France for a more efficient and accessible healthcare system and a more even work/life balance.
Above all, Americans feel that the French know how to enjoy life. The phrase “joie de vivre” is one that has found its way into the English language. That compelling feeling of relaxation and peace is something many Americans seem to strive for. France is high up on their list when it comes to looking for countries to provide just that.
Where and what are Americans buying
Our recent survey shows the majority of Americans are looking for a village home within easy walking distance of basic amenities and close enough to a vibrant town.
As for area, the preference is for the south and southwest of the country, such as Nouvelle Aquitaine or Occitanie, with Brittany coming a close third.
France offers a way of life that appeals to different parts of US and Canadian culture
Why Canadians like France
The word Canada is said to have come simply from a misunderstanding. The French explorer Jacques Cartier had apparently understood the Huron-Iroquois word “kanata” which means village for the name of the whole region of what is now Quebec City.
Whether this is apocryphal or not, the French colonised Canada during the 16th century. They arrived firstly in Quebec and the French language to this day is well preserved across the province as well as in New Brunswick, Ontario and Manitoba. The French language is recognised in the country’s constitution and all government services are provided in both English and French.
Canadians are thus proud to consider themselves at least in thought as cousins of the French. France has always been close to their heart.
The visa US citizens need to live in or visit France
US citizens may visit France for up to 90 days without a visa. However, any longer requires a visa of which there are several types. The first thing to do is to apply via the France visa website Accueil – France-Visas Once completed, the applicant needs to appear in person at one of the designated cities in the USA. The towns are Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, San Francisco, Seattle, and Washington DC.
VFS Global have handled visa applications for Stateside citizens until now. Note however that from April 17th, the visa centres and application process will be handled by TLS Contact. The cities in the USA will not change, simply the actual location. The fees are €45 for a short stay visa and €220 for a long stay visa, all payable in US dollars.
It’s not just one reason that is behind this surge
Why Americans and Canadians are interested now
“As real estate agents in the Carcassonne region, we’ve seen a steady rise in interest from US and Canadian clients since early 2023,” Andrew Guck, a real estate agent with Leggett Immobilier tells us. “More and more are purchasing properties remotely, relying entirely on video tours and digital communication without visiting in person beforehand.”
Though many still visit in person, Guck says. “It’s a way to get a feel for the local culture, lifestyle, and practicalities before committing to a purchase.”
Guck believes the US elections had a direct impact on the rise in interest. “Since then, we’ve observed roughly a 20% increase in sales to American buyers in the entire company across France.”
Whatever your reasons, there is a good life to find in France
“What draws Americans here goes beyond the charm of historic villages and beautiful landscapes,” Guck says. “There’s a deep appreciation for French culture – its wine, cuisine, language, and layered history. But perhaps just as important is the lifestyle. France is often seen as a country that values quality of life over relentless productivity. The French maintain a clear boundary between work and leisure, something many Americans feel has been lost back home. That contrast is increasingly appealing to those seeking a healthier, more balanced pace of life.”
Guck also says since the visa process is relatively straightforward for Americans, particularly those with some financial means, the decision to make the leap into buying property in France becomes even easier. “The properties being purchased range from full-time residences to holiday homes, with some buyers using them as seasonal retreats and others fully relocating to start a new chapter of life in the south of France.”
France’s appeal of course stretches to the rich and famous also. George and Amal Clooney own a chateau in Provence. Brad Pitt and Bradley Cooper reportedly own property in the South of France too. With property prices in France remaining very competitive however, it is not just wealthy Americans who are buying up; the French market is really open to all.
If you’re excited to make a move to France, speak to one our consultants today to learn about the next steps.
