I was born and raised in France and moved to the United States as a young adult. For the last decade, I have shared my time between the U.S. and a small village of 600 people in the south of France.
For twelve years, I have worked as an independent consultant for Americans wishing to relocate to France, handling diverse issues such as immigration and visa requirements, professional certifications, housing and schooling, and a host of other relevant issues.
Over the years, I have noticed two things that have led me to create a source of information specific to rural areas: one is that while there are many Anglophone sites/organizations providing tangible information to Americans wanting to move to one of France’s large cities, there is nothing that I was able to find that provides that level of practical information for those interested in a French rural experience. In addition, while the French government is actively seeking to attract foreigners who may be able to contribute in a meaningful way to France’s economy, it has always focused on the kind of professionals (large scale entrepreneurs, researchers) most likely to come and settle in a large city; and in doing so putting in place a number of organizational structures. They have done no such thing for foreign professionals interested in working in a rural area. My goal is to help remedy this situation.
One more word: this website is not technically a blog, in the sense that I will not post a brand new text completely separated from the previous one (with the exception of the page What Regional Governments are Doing). Rather, I will alter or add to what I have already posted, so that my information is as up-to date as can be at all times. But, as in a blog, I very much welcome contributions, questions, comments and criticism (constructive and conveyed respectfully).
If you would like to explore the possibilities that rural France may have in store for you, I would be happy to assist you in doing the following:
- Help you navigate any of the organizations and resources that I have listed here as well as research others that may be of assistance to you
- Contact officials of small municipalities on your behalf to discuss any interest or support that may exist for your professional project
- Assist you in obtaining a work/stay authorization from the consular authorities; a necessary step to living or working in France
- Assist you with practical issues such as housing, schooling for children, obtaining a driver’s license in France or bringing your pet with you
My fee is $95 per hour. I have no minimum and would be happy to book a consultation with you with the understanding that you may have all your questions answered in less than a full hour; in which case the fee would be prorated accordingly.
I look forward to being of assistance!
Laurence Raybois
(425) 246-9649