155: What it takes to become French in 2026 with Charli James

February 11
47 mins

Episode Description

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:

Charli James

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

⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠

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