If an American wanted to immigrate to Europe, how good of an option would France be?

Question

I understand there is a red tape nightmare for Americans wanting to move to France.

Is this similar to other countries in Europe? Would it be the same to relocate to Holland, England, etc?

Very overly simplistic, I know. Just wondering about general ideas, thoughts and perceptions.

Answer 1

Have you seen the movie "Sicko"? I looked like it was just a blast to live there- Free health care and all.

Why in the world would you have to take a language test. The immigrants here dont.....Ugh! I hate America.

Good luck...and take me with you!

Answer 2

I did it several years ago with no problems. I don't really know the details as my agency took care of the paperwork. I loved it though.

Answer 3

well, if you dont mind living with the french.... Shouldnt be too difficult. Mostly you need to have a job that's needed in that country (it's part of the application process), and be able to pass the language exam. It'll cost several thousand dollars to move, mind you.

Answer 4

There are difficulties with moving to any other country if you intend to not just live but also work there.

France has an unemployment rate of 9.4% , more than twice that in the United States. France doesn't need any more job seekers which probably means you. Its pretty much the same everywhere although the employment situation in the UK and Ireland is much better than in France.

So your number one problem is finding employment BEFORE you move.

You should consider looking at  American companies that have a presence in France with an eye towards first working in the USA and then getting a transfer to the French subsidiary. Working for the American government in either the Foreign Service or the Military is another possibility.

If what you want to do is move to some imaginary paradise where no one has to work and the government hands out "free" health care and "free" education then forget it.

A word about all the "free" stuff. Accoding to the OECD the French are some of most heavily taxed people on earth. As a young single male you will pay MORE THAN 50% of your income in taxes. Someone has to pay for all that "free" stuff and the bottom line is that you'd be that someone.

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Answer 5

This just seems like the perfect time for me to brag that I have tri-citizenship.  US, Canada, and Greece... meaning I can live and work anywhere in the European Union, meaning no red tape for me.   Jealous?    :)

Seriously though, unless you're rich or already speak French... I'd immigrate to Argentina.  It's just as beautiful as Europe, but about 3.5 times cheaper... and all the folks look like Europeans (I'm Mediterranean and I looked just like any of them).  And the biggest plus side for you...  Argentina has one of the highest Anorexia rates.  All the women are like sticks.  No more scales!!!

Answer 6

I would say pretty good in the begining, but they would move else where.

Answer 7

If you have the willingness to be integrated, you are more than welcome in France.

It's true that France has a high unemployment rate, but keeps in mind that skilled people are rarely in such situation.

Speaking French is the best integration's factor. Otherwise, you will spend all your time with expatriates.

Many French people enjoy speaking English, and I am sure they can help you to improve your French. (Use web chat rooms to find them).

Paris is the best place to get a job as many headquarters and big companies (generally keen to employ English speakers) are located.

Since €1 worth $1,37, I think that the cost of living is approximately 20/30% higher than in the U.S. Your purchasing power will certainly decrease, but you lifestyle will improve: France is well known for its food, its wines, and its women (if you are not married)!

Keep in mind that everything is possible. Obviously, moving to the UK would be easier. But if you are keen to discover something different, privilege the French experience!