Moving to America
from France

This guide is written by European expats to help you move to America from France. It explains everything you need to know when moving to the United States of America, from gaining your US visa and Work Permit to the international move process.

Why are people moving to America from France

America is the top international destination for French and EU citizens moving abroad. In fact, the USA accounts for 10% of French expatriates living abroad. The United States has much to offer “Les Français”, with New York and Los Angeles accounting for almost a third of French expats living in America. Interestingly 1 in every 65 people living in Miami Florida is a French expat. So why is America such a hot spot for French expats?

GETTING A JOB IN THE USA AND BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT

Well, it’s work. The strength of the US economy and resultant career openings make it possible for skilled French and EU citizens to secure work and obtain US work permits. Despite recent global crises, the US economy continues to boom and is the world’s biggest, most innovative and most technologically powerful, in large part thanks to the numerous French corporations headquartered in the USA. These firms offer international professionals opportunities for career development and lure them to the leading financial centres of New York or Los Angeles. But do bear in mind that smaller business centres such as Atlanta are worth considering. Another draw for professionals is the relaxed, informal business culture in the USA, with an emphasis on minimum red tape.

POSITIVE THINKING

Underpinning this business culture is the can-do culture. It may seem like a cliché, but such an attitude and positive thinking are important factors in the American way of doing things. With such a mindset, problems are seen as opportunities, not threats.

VIBRANT CITIES

Then there are the buzzing cities and amazing outdoors – to name just a few. The United States may lack Canada’s strong linguistic connection with France, but the large US cities are a global melting pot and the international atmosphere of its cities will help make settling in much easier.

Everyone knows New York, Boston and Los Angeles, but the regional cities have much to offer, including greater affordability and good quality of life. Atlanta, Georgia, is known for its thriving business culture and is home to several Fortune 500 companies. Jacksonville, the largest settlement in Florida, is a major business centre and is regarded as one of the best places to live in the state, not least because of access to excellent beaches. To the north, Cincinnati in Ohio, is enjoying a jobs boom and rates highly on the quality of life scale.

DIVERSITY AND CULTURE

Historically, the USA has been a nation of immigrants, and people from all over the globe continue to make it their home. You’ll meet people from a whole range of backgrounds and cultures, many of whom are going through the same experiences of transitioning abroad. All of this adds to the experience of living in another culture.

A HIGH QUALITY OF LIFE

Life in America can offer a very high quality of life. With the exception of the big US city centres which are roughly on a par with Paris, housing and real estate in the USA are considered affordable and of a high standard, which means that families moving to America, will be able to find a good place to live, in a neighbourhood that offers enough space and provide children with a good standard of education. The relative cost of food and consumer products makes living affordable, especially when considered against incomes available.

There is also the great outdoors. From the rugged Rocky Mountains in the Northwest and Death Valley in California to the Everglades in Florida in the Southeast, some of the world’s most beautiful landscapes are found in the US.

Many are within easy reach of the big cities, such as the wooded landscapes of New England, famous for their autumn colours. But if you really want to get away from it all, you can do so in the famous national parks, such as Yosemite or Yellowstone. And whether you enjoy cycling, skiing or sailing, there are numerous ways to enjoy outdoor pursuits.

Here is a useful checklist to help you plan each stage of your move to America from France.

FINDING AN INTERNATIONAL REMOVAL COMPANY

As you would imagine, moving abroad is more complex and time-consuming than moving home within your own country. Therefore, it is highly recommended you choose a reputable and reliable international moving company.

SECURING YOUR INTERNATIONAL MOVE

Make sure that the removal company is registered and has the necessary insurance. One way of doing this is to check they are registered with the main international moving authorities.

IS THE COMPANY FIDI ACCREDITED?

Always ask whether the company is FIDI-certified. FIDI defines the industry quality standard for international moving and relocation companies. A FIDI certification is only granted to movers who meet its strict rules so it is worth checking this. Look for FIDI’s FAIM or FAIM Plus accreditation.

Step 1 - Request a Move Quote

You will need to get a quote for your international move to America. The easiest way to do this is via an online Move Quote Form. If the moving company has an international removal office in France you can also call them or send an email.

Step 2 - Pre-move Consultation

Upon receiving your quote request, it is best practice for an international moving company to conduct a short consultation with you, usually via phone to fully understand your moving needs.

The team will go through everything you’ll need for the international move and all the pre-move checks. They should run through a checklist to ensure everything is in place so you can move to the USA.

A HOME SURVEY

A home video survey helps ensure your quote is as accurate as possible. Usually, this will be a survey of your home contents by means of a video or possibly an in person visit by a surveyor.

When you speak to the international moving company, you may like to ask about these points during the video survey:

• Access and parking
• Fine art/valuables/special items
• Insuring your items
• International money transfers
• Moving your pets
• Shipping and storage of vehicles
• Storage
• Temporary accommodation
• TVA reclaims

Fine art, delicate items, and antiques: These will need to be highlighted to ensure they receive specific treatment such as casing and preservation. They will also need to be handled differently and most likely have specific customs requirements. Make sure your moving company has the ability to handle these requirements.

Ballpark quotes: These are provided by some movers over the phone. If you are offered this option without a complete assessment, please be aware that the final price you pay might be considerably higher.

Your International Move Summary and Quote: This will be sent to you after the survey. Check the details to make sure that everything is clear. If you have more than one quote, make sure you are getting a like-for-like comparison.

Step 3 - Book your move date

Check your move quote to make sure it includes everything you requested. You can always contact your Move Specialist at any time if you’ve any questions. If you’re comparing quotes between several moving companies, you can speak to a Sterling Lexicon Move Consultant who can help you compare like-for-like.

Step 4 - Pay for your move

Some movers may ask you to pay a deposit to secure your move date. You should be able to pay by credit card over the phone, or you can pay online. Credit card payment is recommended as the safest, most secure option.

TRACK AND MANAGE YOUR MOVE ONLINE

You can save time by managing stages of your move via a web portal and tracking progress online. You should check that your international removal company offers this option.

Step 5 - Get ready to move home

PAPERWORK

It has to be done, but most international movers will help support you and make the process quick and as easy as possible. If you book with Sterling Lexicon, your Move Specialist will check that everything is completed properly, thus avoiding unnecessary delays and increased expenses.

PREPARING YOUR DOCUMENTATION READY FOR YOUR MOVE

For international removals, certain documents must be completed so that you can bring your items into the USA via US customs from the EU. They include customs documents, and a copy of your passport and your residence visa/work permit for you and your accompanying family.

US HOUSEHOLD GOODS CUSTOMS REQUIREMENTS

Your international moving company’s Move Consultant should help you to make sure you have all the correct customs documentation. They should guide you through the documentation stages and also help you fill in the US Customs 3299 Form – the importer’s declaration, which can be confusing and complex.

Below is a list of the documents you’ll need when planning an international removal to America from France:

• Copy of valid Passport (some ports require Passports for all family members listed on the 3299)
• Copy of valid Visa non-US citizens, or copy of Permanent Resident Card if a returning US citizen
• A-1 Visa if it is a diplomat moving to America
• CF-3299 – Declaration for Free Entry of Unaccompanied Articles, if applicable
• Form DS-1504 (applicable only to diplomatic relocations/diplomats moving)
• Form CF-6059B – Customs Declaration
• Copy of Bill of Lading (OBL) / Air Waybill (AWB) – Your mover should take care of this if completing the entire international removal to the USA for you.
• Detailed moving inventory in English – Your mover should complete this if you want us to undertake a full packing service for your removal
• Food Questionnaire
• CBP Form 7501 - Customs Entry Summary
• Importers Security Filing (ISF)
• Stamped I-94 Card

GET YOUR HOME READY

You should prepare your home ahead of the arrival of the packing crews. Firstly, sort out items you want to take with you and those that will stay. Belongings to be transported by air freight should be put to one side. If you have pictures, place them against a wall, ready for packing. Large items can be set aside for the moving company to dismantle, or you can do this yourself. All small parts should be placed in a dedicated parts box for reassembly when you move into your new home.

ITEMS TO SET ASIDE TO TRAVEL WITH YOU

Put your passport, French ID, visa, drivers license, phone, charger, power pack, adaptor, jewellery and any medication in a container so they aren’t packs. Also, keep key documents such as insurance contracts and lease contracts in a wallet - make sure you have physical and digital copies to hand.

MOVING WITH PETS

If you’re taking pets, speak to your Moving Specialist about particular requirements. For example, cats and dogs are subject to different rules than those for a reptile or exotic pet. Sterling Lexicon can arrange a consultation and a date and time and to collect your pet. Learn all about our safe and secure Pet Relocation services. 

BITS BOX AND BOX FOR YOUR FIRST DAY IN YOUR NEW HOME

Ensure that you pack all the nuts and bolts from dismantled furniture, remote controls, etc., in a single box marked appropriately. You should also set aside a box for items for your first evening in your new accommodation. Cutlery, plates, cups, blankets, etc. should be placed inside it. Make sure these boxes are clearly marked and are last to be loaded, so you can easily locate them.

Step 6 - Packing your household goods on the day of moving home

Your professional packing crew will come to your home at the arranged time.  The standard procedures will apply, which involves a walk through your home, and you can let the packing crew know what you want to take or leave at home, how you want your items to be transported. You can also tell us about any valuable items. They may provide you with stickers for labelling items.

ECO-FRIENDLY EXPORT PACKING MATERIALS

Check that the packing materials used are sustainable and are of the required standard. Reputable companies use packing materials offering the best protection and are environmentally-friendly. This includes sustainable and eco-friendly 4-6 ply export wrap, thick-walled packing boxes, acid-free tissue paper, cornering for furniture, and thick carding. You can expect the packing crews to apply specialist export wrapping techniques and take measures to protect your home from damage. The crews will recycle materials as much as possible.

INTERNATIONAL MOVE INSURANCE

Your possessions will be transported roughly 4,000 miles/7000 kms between France and America. Protect your move with an insurance policy for your possessions, furniture, artworks, etc. You can ask your Move Specialist to help you arrange cover.

TAXABLE ITEMS AND DUTIES

As a preventative measure and to minimise costs, send your Move Consultant a list of everything that you want to take. They’ll let you know if any items are restricted or incur tax duties.

YOUR PACKING INVENTORY

Your mover should provide a packing inventory. This is with a list of all the items packed. Please keep a copy until your belongings have arrived in the USA and have been unpacked so you can check everything has arrived.

STORING YOUR ITEMS

If you need to put any items into storage, ask your international movers for secure storage in France so they can store these safely and securely before shipping.

Step 7 - Transporting your household goods to America

Your international mover will prepare your possessions for transportation. Sea freight is often the best way to move your household goods over a long distance with a lower environmental impact. It is also common to arrange an air shipment for your most essential items.

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO MOVE MY HOUSEHOLD GOODS TO ARRIVE?

It should take at least 6 to 8 weeks for your sea shipment to arrive in America. Bear in mind that this will vary, depending on customs clearance and which state you’re moving to.

US CUSTOMS DOCUMENTS

Household goods transported to America and will undergo US Customs clearance. Make sure you include the proper US Customs documents and supporting information. Check how your international mover will support you here. For example, if you use Sterling Lexicon, they will help you complete the forms in advance and manage the clearance process.

Step 8 - Travel and temporary accommodation in America

You should arrive at the airport in plenty of time. Before setting off, check that all your documents are present and correct. Also, check that you meet all the legal requirements for COVID testing and travelling. If you are moving your pet(s), they will be travelling in safety and comfort too.

BOOKING TEMPORARY ACCOMMODATION

You’ll probably be in temporary accommodation or staying at a hotel before your belongings are brought over. When you’ve arrived and passed through customs, inform your Move Consultant. They can then organise delivery of your air-freight, with your essential items, to this address.

Step 9 - Delivery to your new home

Your international mover should provide support for the customs clearance of your possessions at destination. Once cleared, they will contact you to arrange delivery of your household goods to your new home.

Step 10 - Welcome to your new home

You’ve made it! Welcome to your new home! Our support doesn’t stop here. It’s time to get to know your new neighbourhood and Sterling Lexicon offer settling-in services. Your first night will often feel strange so make sure you locate your first night box so you can get takeaway or even cook yourself.

On a more practical note, you will also need to get all your utilities connected, register for a local doctor, dentist, arrange for a bank account (if not already organised) and get yourself set up correctly. Speak to your international mover at the early stages as you can often get these things set up in advance.

What people say about their move

We provide full support to professionals, couples and families moving from France to the USA. Our Move Specialists at our Paris office are on hand to help you before the move, and their US counterparts, based in various locations across the USA, will help you with the settling-in process.