Living in France: My 3-Year Assessment as an American Expat

Settling Into a New Life

Three years have passed since the move to France in 2022, and living in France has finally reached a point of balance and familiarity. The early days of navigating new systems, finding essentials, and adjusting to a different rhythm of life have evolved into a sense of belonging. Doctors, dentists, and other everyday necessities are now part of a well established routine. Knowing the neighborhood, the local shops, and even the best shortcuts through winding streets has brought a comforting sense of home.

The third year marked a turning point no longer feeling like a visitor, but rather someone who truly lives here. The language barrier has softened, the cultural nuances are easier to understand, and daily life flows more naturally.

The Challenges of French Bureaucracy

Despite the progress, France continues to test patience in ways only French bureaucracy can. The visa renewal process remains one of the most frustrating experiences—slow, confusing, and rarely efficient. Anything involving governmental administration seems to move at its own pace, often requiring multiple visits, repeated paperwork, and endless waiting.

Repairs and services follow a similar pattern. Getting someone to come on time, complete a job properly, and not have to return multiple times is a rare victory. These experiences have taught the importance of patience and persistence, two qualities that are essential for any expat living in France.

Doing Business the French Way

One of the ongoing challenges, as an American expat in France, has been understanding how business is viewed and conducted in France. The approach to collaboration, communication, and even food-related ventures often feels different from the American way. There’s a certain formality and tradition that can make innovation or efficiency harder to achieve. Incorporating social media and modern marketing strategies into business here can feel like an uphill climb, as not everyone embraces digital tools in the same way.

Still, these differences have provided valuable lessons in adaptability and cultural understanding. Learning to navigate the French business mindset has been part of the broader journey of integration.

The Highs and Lows of Year Three

Year three brought a bit more stress than previous years, partly due to outside factors beyond France itself. Yet, even with the challenges, the overall experience remained positive. The sense of peace and happiness that comes from living in France continues to outweigh the frustrations.

Plans for 2026 include traveling more and launching a new business once the visa change and renewal are complete. This next chapter promises new adventures and opportunities for growth, both personally and professionally.

Looking Ahead

Living in France has also meant staying informed about changes that affect expats. Updates to long-stay visa regulations, particularly regarding healthcare, are on the horizon. Staying informed about the 2026 visa changes and residency updates is essential for anyone staying long term. There are also discussions in the United States about limiting dual citizenship and potential policy shifts that could impact Americans living abroad. While the limitations on dual citizenship, could have wide reaching effects, it’s unlikely they will come to pass given how many people including high profile individuals would be affected.

Final Reflections

Three years in, the move to France remains one of the best decisions ever made. The journey has brought peace, happiness, and a deeper appreciation for life’s slower pace. While bureaucracy, inefficiency, and cultural differences can be challenging, they are small prices to pay for the fulfillment that comes from living authentically in a place that feels like home.

As the next chapter begins—with travel, business ventures, and continued growth—the foundation built over these three years stands strong. France has become more than a destination; it has become a way of life and my permanent home!

Want to see more of my life in France? 🎥 I’ve put together a full video breakdown of my 3-year assessment, including the unfiltered truth about French bureaucracy and what to expect for 2026.

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