Hello,
I am an US citizen and given the current climate in the US at the moment I am considering moving to France. I don't know how the healthcare system works there. From what I understood there is a "mutuelle" and "carte vitale" but can I benefit from it ? Do I need to take out private health insurance in France ?
Please advise.
Thank you !
Hello,
Thank you for reaching out!
You're absolutely right to look into the healthcare system in France before making your move. While France does offer excellent public healthcare, gaining access to it as a foreign national can take quite a bit of time — sometimes several months, and in some cases, even years. This is due to the administrative delays in obtaining a Carte Vitale (the health insurance card for the French system) and registering with l'Assurance Maladie.
During this waiting period, you would not be fully covered by the public healthcare system, which means any medical expenses would be out of pocket.
That’s why taking out private health insurance is not just recommended — it’s often essential for expats, especially when first arriving in France. A private policy ensures you're covered from day one for doctor visits, hospital stays, emergencies, and more.
We offer tailored health insurance for France, including coverage that meets official visa requirements and complements the French system once you do gain access.
Feel free to reach out if you'd like help choosing the right plan — we’re here to make your transition as smooth (and well-insured) as possible! And you can also request a free quote online, it only takes 2 minutes.
Have a nice day !
