George and Amal Clooney Become French Citizens Amid Trump Criticism
George and Amal Clooney, along with their two children, became French citizens earlier in January 2026 after living in southern France. The family purchased the Domaine du Canadel near Brignoles in 2021, which they describe as the place where they are happiest.
Under new immigration rules effective from January 1, applicants must demonstrate a level of French suitable for university entry and pass a civic knowledge test. Amal Clooney is fluent in French, while George Clooney admitted that his French remains imperfect despite extensive study.
Following the Clooneys' naturalization, former US President Donald Trump criticized them on Truth Social, citing immigration concerns and labeling them poor prognosticators. In response, George Clooney praised French privacy laws and expressed that the family prefers life in France to raise their children away from Hollywood.
French authorities defended the decision to grant citizenship. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez stated his happiness over the development, and the foreign ministry confirmed that the process met all legal conditions. Junior Interior Minister Marie-Pierre Vedrenne questioned the messaging surrounding the case and highlighted issues of double standards.
In 2024, approximately 48,800 people acquired French nationality by decree. George Clooney remains a longtime supporter and fundraiser for the Democratic Party in the United States.
