Overview
- George Clooney, Amal Clooney and their two children became French by ministerial decree, with the Interior Ministry saying they completed standard steps including a prefecture interview.
- The Foreign Affairs Ministry cited article 21-21 of the Civil Code, which allows naturalisation for francophone applicants whose distinguished work advances France’s international standing.
- Minister-delegate Marie-Pierre Vedrenne acknowledged public perceptions of “two weights two measures,” while Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez rejected that view and called the decision a positive for France.
- Reporting has underscored questions about typical thresholds such as five years of residence and French proficiency, noting the family’s 2021 property purchase and George Clooney’s admission of limited French.
- President Donald Trump ridiculed the decision on Truth Social and criticized France’s immigration management as new requirements take effect today, including a B2 French level and a mandatory civics exam for applicants.