Navigating the French Healthcare System: How to Get Social Security & Private Insurance
France is known for having one of the best healthcare systems in the world—but if you’re an expat, figuring out how to access it can be confusing. The good news? Once you're registered, you’ll benefit from affordable, high-quality medical care.
This guide will walk you through how to get social security (Sécurité Sociale), a French health insurance number, and private health coverage so you can stay protected from day one.
🏥 How Does Healthcare Work in France?
The French healthcare system is a mix of public and private care:
✔️ Public Healthcare (Sécurité Sociale) – Covers 70% of doctor visits & medical costs.
✔️ Private Insurance (Mutuelle) – Covers the remaining 30% not reimbursed by the state.
💡 Tip: Everyone living in France long-term should register for social security and consider getting a mutuelle to cover extra costs.
📌 Step 1: Register for French Social Security (PUMA System)
Expats can access state healthcare through PUMA (Protection Universelle Maladie) if they:
✔️ Work in France (employed or self-employed).
✔️ Have lived in France for at least 3 months with plans to stay long-term.
✔️ Are a student or family member of someone covered by social security.
📑 How to Apply for Social Security (Carte Vitale)
To apply for social security, submit these documents to CPAM (Caisse Primaire d’Assurance Maladie):
✅ Completed Cerfa 15763*02 form
✅ Passport & visa or residence permit
✅ Proof of residence (utility bill, rental contract)
✅ Birth certificate (with official French translation)
✅ French bank details (RIB)
💡 Once approved, you’ll receive a temporary social security number before getting your Carte Vitale (French health card).
💳 Step 2: Get a Carte Vitale (Your French Health Card)
The Carte Vitale is your key to the French healthcare system. It allows doctors, pharmacies, and hospitals to bill Sécurité Sociale directly, so you don’t have to pay upfront for most services.
✔️ You’ll receive your Carte Vitale by mail after your social security is approved.
✔️ Keep it with you for all medical visits & prescriptions.
💡 Tip: If you’re waiting for your Carte Vitale, ask for a "attestation de droits" as proof of health coverage.
💰 Step 3: Get Private Health Insurance (Mutuelle)
Even with social security, you won’t get 100% reimbursement for medical costs. That’s where a mutuelle (private health insurance) comes in—it covers the extra costs left unpaid by the state.
📌 How to Choose a Mutuelle
✔️ Basic Mutuelle – Covers hospital fees, doctor visits, and medication.
✔️ Comprehensive Mutuelle – Covers dental, vision, physiotherapy, and specialist care.
📌 Best Mutuelle Providers in France
✔️ Harmonie Mutuelle
✔️ April International (good for expats)
✔️ Alan (100% online & easy to use)
✔️ LMDE (for students)
💡 Tip: Some employers provide a mutuelle as part of their work benefits—check with your HR department before buying one.
⚡ Quick FAQs on French Healthcare for Expats
📌 Do I need private health insurance to move to France?
✔️ If you’re coming on a long-stay visa, you’ll need proof of health coverage (either public or private).
📌 How much does healthcare cost in France?
✔️ Doctor visit: €25 (70% reimbursed by social security)
✔️ Specialist consultation: €50-€100 (partially reimbursed)
✔️ Emergency hospital visit: Covered up to 80%
📌 Can I use my EHIC card in France?
✔️ EU citizens can use their EHIC for temporary medical care but must register for PUMA if staying long-term.
🚀 Need Help Registering for French Healthcare?
At Le Petit Guide, we help expats navigate the French healthcare system, from registering for social security to choosing the right mutuelle.
✅ Assistance with your CPAM application
✅ Help filling out documents & translations
✅ Guidance on choosing the best mutuelle
