Join Us in France Travel Podcast Moving to France: Realities, Challenges, and Rewards
14 snips
Mar 15, 2026 
Molly Sébrier, writer and longtime American in Paris who navigated au pair and student visas to settle in France. Stephen Heiner, author and consultant who guides freelancers and visa strategies. They discuss visa paths like profession libérale and Passport Talent. They cover timing a move, driver’s license reciprocity, bank and tax pitfalls, integration realities, and practical ways to meet locals.
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Transcript
Build Financial Anchorage To Earn Residency
- Do plan for long-term anchorage in France by showing French-sourced income or a business to qualify for the carte de résident later.
- Stephen notes five years and language proof lead to the tenure residency card.
Don't Work Remote On A Visitor Visa
- Avoid working remotely for a US employer while on a visitor visa because France clarified in 2025 that this is not allowed long-term.
- Molly and Stephen warn tax and immigration silos now coordinate, risking future residency and tax compliance.
Get A Reciprocal US License Before You Move
- Do secure a US driver's license from a reciprocal state before moving if you plan to drive in rural France.
- Stephen explains only certain US states have reciprocity; otherwise you must pass the French driving test with technical questions.