The French public system covers doctor visits, hospital stays, most prescriptions, maternity, and some dental and optical care. Typically, it reimburses around 70% of standard healthcare costs, with some long-term illnesses covered at 100%.

Employees pay social contributions (around 8%), deducted from salaries. Non-employed residents pay based on income. Out-of-pocket costs are fairly low; most pay a small co-payment unless they have a mutuelle.

Comprehensive coverage; low costs due to public subsidies; easy access to specialists and hospitals; almost universal eligibility.

Partial coverage, requiring a mutuelle for full reimbursement; some waiting times; limited English-language support; bureaucratic setup process.

Most people use the default CPAM in their area, as public providers are assigned geographically. For your mutuelle, compare plans for price and coverage details.

Private health insurance, known as a mutuelle or complémentaire, typically covers the remaining 30% of costs not paid by the public system and may offer higher limits for dental, vision, or single rooms in hospitals.

Premiums vary widely based on age and coverage but usually range from €20–€100 per month. Comprehensive private-only policies (for those not eligible for public) are higher.

Better reimbursement for dental, vision, and certain specialist treatments; access to single rooms; reduced or eliminated co-payments.

Added cost; some policies have waiting periods or exclusions; French language often required for customer service.

Anyone can apply for a mutuelle to supplement public coverage. Only certain groups (diplomats, posted workers, or early expats) can choose full private policies instead of public coverage.

Compare offers from various companies for coverage and price. Employers sometimes offer group mutuelles with better conditions.

Expat-focused international health insurance is designed for newcomers awaiting eligibility or who prefer English-language service. Policies include broad hospital, outpatient, and repatriation coverage.

Expat plans are more expensive but easier to obtain before public system eligibility. Public + mutuelle is generally cheaper and more comprehensive for residents.

Expat insurance allows ongoing medical treatment during your stay, while travel insurance usually only covers emergencies and repatriation.

Long-term residents must join the French public system; expat policies are not recognized for social security rights and may be rejected for visa renewals after the first year.

France offers special coverage for students (via Sécurité Sociale Étudiante), low-income residents (Complémentaire Santé Solidaire), and some professional schemes. Artists or freelancers may be eligible for specific plans.

EU/EEA residents can use a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for necessary medical care during short stays. For residency, you must join the French system within a few months.

France offers the Maison des Artistes for artists, which provides special insurance and social security registration for creatives and performers.

Apply for a French social security number at CPAM as soon as you have proof of address and status. Arrange a mutuelle for extra coverage. Carry your Carte Vitale and ID to each appointment.

Seek guidance from your local CPAM office, helpful English-speaking innovation hubs, or specialized expat associations.