Practical guides for Americans navigating life in France — from someone who's lived every step of it.

I’m Sarah — an American from Ohio who landed in France in March 2020 and became a French citizen in 2024. This site is where I document the paperwork, the healthcare, the culture shock, and everything in between.

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Immigration & residency

From your first visa to French nationality; practical guides for the French immigration process demystified by someone who’s lived every step.

Pregnancy & birth in France

What to expect when you’re expecting in France: prenatal care, giving birth in a French hospital, and navigating the system as an American.

Getting around Paris

Metro tickets, airport transfers, EES wait times, and strike survival tips; everything you need to get around Paris without losing your mind or your wallet.

Housekeeping — free monthly digest

French admin changes, public holidays, and what’s worth knowing this month. Free, no spam.

Latest from the blog

Examen Civique France: What Expats Need to Know in 2026

The examen civique requirement is a new step for immigrants in France starting in January 2026. This guide explains who is affected, what the exam includes, and how it impacts first-time applicants for a carte de séjour pluriannuelle, carte de résident, and French naturalisation.

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