France consistently ranks as one of the best countries for healthcare. But for expats, navigating the system can get tricky — especially while trying to understand eligibility, costs, and which coverage you need at the same time. Taking the time to learn the ins and outs of France’s healthcare system will make your move easier.
Read our general guide on Healthcare for Expats here.
How Healthcare Works in France
France operates on a universal healthcare system through the Protection Maladie Universelle (PUMA). PUMA is a public system that is overseen by the French Social Security System and the care is primarily funded through taxes and employer/employee social contributions. Through those funds is how it’s made accessible to nearly everyone who lives in France.
For expats, if you’re planning on living in France long-term, you’re expected to be apart of the French system (especially if you’re utilizing the services).
Requirements for Expats
The requirements to receive healthcare in France as an expat depend on your residency status. Below we explain a few of the different statuses and how they affect your eligibility.
- Short-term visitors: (under 3 months): You are not eligible for state healthcare. You’ll need to obtain travel insurance or private health insurance if you desire coverage.
- Residents: (over 3 months): You can apply for coverage under PUMA. The process involves registering with your local Caisse Primaire d’Assurance Maladie (CPAM). Once approved, you’ll receive the Carte Vitale, which is your green health insurance card. In a nutshell, it allows doctors and pharmacies to bill the state directly for the covered portion of your care.
- Students and retirees: With proof of residency and income, you can often find programs to receive healthcare while living there.
- Gap coverage: If you’re applying through PUMA can take several months, many expats take out temporary private health insurance to cover themselves during the waiting period.
How to Obtain Healthcare
In order to receive healthcare in France, there are a few steps and requirements that need to be followed to ensure you receive full coverage.
- Determine Your Eligibility
If you’re staying in France for more than 3 months, you will generally be eligible to apply for state healthcare under the Protection Maladie Universelle program (linked above). If you’re a short-term visitor, plan to have a personal plan in effect before traveling.
- Gather Required Documents
- Passport or valid ID
- Visa or residency permit
- Proof of residence (leases, utility bill, contracts, etc)
- Proof of income or employment
- Register With Your Local CPAM Office
You will need to visit the Caisse Primaire d’Assurance Maladie in your area or online to complete the registration.
- Receive Your Carte Vitale
Once approved, you will receive your Carte Vitale, which is your key to receiving healthcare. This card allows you to access healthcare services and ensures that any portions of your medical costs are reimbursed to you from the state.
- Consider Supplemental Insurance (Mutuelle)
While the public system typically covers most medical costs, adding a mutuelle will ensure that the remaining 20-30% of your expenses are covered.
- Keep Records of All Medical Expenses
It can take a few months to receive your Carte Vitale, so make sure you’re recording any medical expenses in the meantime. Once you’re official, you can submit for reimbursement on those expenses.
Access and Quality
France’s healthcare system has previously been rated one of the best in the world by the World Healthcare Organization (WHO). While data has changed within the last 25 years, France is still a great place to receive healthcare. If you’re an expat, you can expect:
- Freedom of choice: You can choose your own doctor (general practitioner or specialist).
- Short wait times: While some specialties may have delays in rural areas, in general, wait times are shorter than many other countries.
- Advanced professionals: Doctors, nurses, and specialists are typically well-trained, with hospitals and clinics offering advanced facilities.
- Pharmacutecal: Pharmacies are common and well-regulated in Europe.
- Language barrier: In larger cities, English is commonly spoken — but in more rural areas, you may need to prepare for the French language.
Leave Your Worries Behind
Navigating healthcare in France may seem complicated at first, but with the right planning, it’s a straightforward process. After registering with the CPAM, securing your Carte Vitale, and possibly obtaining a supplemental mutuelle, you’ll be prepared to take on your French life without a worry. Taking these steps early ensures peace of mind so you have one less thing to think about in your move.
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