Benefits generally may not be paid to aliens outside the U.S. who first became eligible for dependent or survivor benefits after 1984, unless they satisfy certain U.S. residency requirements.

As explained in GN 01701.150A.2., citizens or residents of a country with which the U.S. has a Totalization agreement are exempt from these requirements. Therefore, French citizens, regardless of where they reside, and residents of France are exempt from these requirements.

If an alien dependent or survivor who does not meet the U.S. residency requirement alleges he/she is a citizen or resident of France, develop citizenship or residence status.

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  Definition of the Territory of France, GN 01723.115

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  Developing citizenship and residence status, GN 01702.220 - GN 01702.230.

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  Residency requirements for alien dependents and survivors outside the U.S., RS 02610.025