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Healthcare in France > France Healthcare & Health Insurance FAQ
FAQ about Healthcare & Health Insurance in France
Frequently Asked Questions
- How quickly can I get health coverage in France?
- What is Protection Maladie Universelle (PUMA) in France?
- Does France have single payer healthcare?
- How much is healthcare in France?
- What is a Carte Vitale?
- What type of healthcare system does France have?
- Do you have to pay for healthcare in France?
- Do I need health insurance in France?
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We are the best possible negotiator to help our expatriate clients to safely, efficiently and effectively find the right property in the right place in the French Riviera. Whether buying or renting, French Riviera House Hunting's objective is to find the best place for you, making sure that there are no hidden problems in the acquisition or renting process!
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
How quickly can I get health coverage in France?
Expats can apply to get coverage after 3 months (once you establish residency) in France. It's possible to hasten this process via your employer if you are working and paying into the system.
What is Protection Maladie Universelle (PUMA) in France?
Protection Maladie Universelle (PUMA) is the Universal Health System in France that ensures coverage of all France citizens and legal residents. It is NOT free. As noted above, you will be reimbursed for 70% of your expenses and will pay a percentage (8%) of your salary. Here is the French Governments official page for explaining how to access the French healthcare system as a legal resident.
Does France have single payer healthcare?
Yes. France has broadly available health care and has enacted a medical system that strives to ensure that all citizens or legal residents are covered. Those covered must contribute to the system and the system is not intended to cover 100% of health care costs.
How much is healthcare in France?
Your contributions to the French health care system will be determined by your individual situation. If you are working, then part of your salary (8%) will be deducted from your salary, and as a patient you'll be expected to pay anywhere from 20%-30% of medical costs depending on whether you're at a doctors office or a hospital. It is not a "free" system.
What is a Carte Vitale?
The Carte Vitale (Green Card) is the French health card for French citizens and permanent residents. European Union citizens that hold an European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) do not need a Carte Vitale to access the health system in France.
What type of healthcare system does France have?
France provides Universal Health Care to citizens of France, other European Union countries and legal residents. Read more about the French Healthcare System on Expat Exchange.
Do you have to pay for healthcare in France?
Expats in France will need to contribute a percentage of their salary, which your employer will deduct from your paycheck. If you are not working, such as those who opt to retire early, you will still be required to pay an amount that will be determined by your income level. Additionally, only a percentage of your costs will be reimbursed - most likely at 70%. Expats often get private health insurance to supplement the percentage not covered.
Do I need health insurance in France?
Yes. In order to gain legal entry to France and legal residency, you must be able to prove that you have health insurance. Additionally, even after you gain access to the French healthcare system, it's recommended that you have supplemental private health care insurance to cover the costs of what is not covered.
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