The New Paris Podcast 155: What it takes to become French in 2026 with Charli James
Nearly 12 years I ago, I became a French citizen. Since then, a lot has changed. Most notably, the criteria for nationality have tightened this year. Given how many more Americans, in particular, are looking to move to France, I thought it was time to dig into the process, how it’s gotten harder and why — at least for everyone except George Clooney— and to do so, I brought on a friend of the show, France 24 journalist, and new French citizen, Charli James.
Mentioned in this episode:
Stricter French requirements, fewer resources: Immigrants face new hurdles
France defends decision to grant George Clooney citizenship
Les procédures d'accès à la nationalité française
Immigration : polémique sur des tests de français
A new civic examination for foreigners wishing to settle in France
How France’s far right changed the debate on immigration
In Brussels, the far right can no longer be ignored
Audio production & editing: Matthew Jordan