Public health insurance in France covers about 70% of standard doctor, specialist, and hospital fees, as well as some medications and medical tests. Certain conditions and hospitalizations may be covered in full. Dental, vision, and some specialists may require additional coverage via a mutuelle.

Contributions are deducted from salaries or paid directly if self-employed. The remaining out-of-pocket costs (often about 30%) can be offset by a mutuelle. Basic public insurance is highly affordable and subsidies are available for low-income residents.

Wide coverage, high healthcare standards, no exclusion for pre-existing conditions, direct billing with the Carte Vitale.

Does not cover all costs in full, waiting times for some specialists, paperwork for reimbursement if you lack a Carte Vitale.

Most people are automatically assigned a local CPAM office. For mutuelle (top-up insurance), compare options based on your health needs and price.

Private insurance (mutuelles) typically covers the 30% not reimbursed by Sécurité Sociale, as well as better dental, vision, and specialist care. Full private or expat plans provide complete coverage, including some services not in the public system.

Mutuelle costs vary based on age and coverage level but are generally affordable (around €20-80/month). Comprehensive private plans can be significantly more expensive.

More comprehensive coverage, faster specialist access, lower out-of-pocket costs, more English-language support with international insurers.

Added cost, possible exclusions for pre-existing conditions, and some private policies are not accepted everywhere.

Anyone can apply for a mutuelle. Full private/expat insurance is mainly for non-residents, new arrivals, or those not yet eligible for public coverage.

Compare mutuelles for price, coverage, and network. Ask about policies for expats if newly arrived.

Expat health insurance offers quick coverage for newcomers and non-residents. It’s often required for visa applications. These plans provide comprehensive cover but may not meet all long-term requirements or grant access to the public system.

Expat insurance is fast and flexible but more expensive. Public insurance is more comprehensive long-term and ensures access to the full French healthcare system.

Expat plans are valid for residence and ongoing care, while travel insurance is for emergencies, temporary stays, and repatriation only—not routine care.

Long-term use of expat health insurance is discouraged: it may not fulfill legal obligations, cannot always access all public facilities, and may be rejected for long-term residency extensions.

Certain professions (students, artists, civil servants) may have access to dedicated schemes. Some companies offer group mutuelle plans.

EU citizens can use the EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) for access to necessary medical care but should register with French Sécurité Sociale if moving long-term.

There is no specific equivalent to Germany’s KSK in France, but artists and freelancers can join public insurance (Sécurité Sociale) and may access specialized assistance through organizations like Maison des Artistes.

Register at your local CPAM, gather necessary documents (ID, proof of address, birth certificate, translated if required), apply for your Carte Vitale, and consider taking out a mutuelle for full coverage.

For guidance, visit your local CPAM, contact France’s public information portals, or seek help from expat service providers.