The French health system reimburses a large part of care, but you have to be registered to benefit from it. Here are the steps, in order, without the jargon.
The principle in one sentence
Social security reimburses part of your health costs. A top-up scheme, called a mutuelle, covers all or part of the rest. The two are separate and applied for separately.
Step 1 — Register with social security
If you're an international student, registration is done online on the site for foreign students. If you're coming to work, your employer triggers the affiliation, but you still have to complete your file.
The documents usually required:
- An ID document or your passport
- Your validated residence permit or visa
- Your birth certificate translated into French
- A French RIB
- Proof of enrolment or your employment contract
Plan ahead for the translated birth certificate. It's the document that blocks the most files. Have it translated by a sworn translator before you leave if possible.
Step 2 — The temporary number, then the permanent one
You first receive a temporary number, which already lets you be reimbursed. The permanent number, with fifteen digits, comes next. Don't worry about the delay: care paid for in between is reimbursed retroactively.
Step 3 — The Carte Vitale
The Carte Vitale is requested once the permanent number is assigned, from your Ameli account. It saves you from paying up front at most professionals.
While you wait to receive it, keep all your paper care forms: they let you be reimbursed afterwards.
Step 4 — Declare a GP (médecin traitant)
The médecin traitant is your entry point into the system. If you see a specialist without going through them, you're reimbursed less.
Choose a GP near you, book a first appointment, and fill in the declaration form with them. It's free and takes five minutes.
Step 5 — Top-up health insurance
Social security doesn't cover everything. A mutuelle covers part of the rest, especially for glasses, dental care and hospital stays.
- If you work, your employer offers one, often at a good rate.
- If you're a student, there are specific low-cost deals.
- If your income is modest, you may be entitled to the complémentaire santé solidaire, free or very cheap.
In an emergency before you're registered
Hospital emergency services turn no one away. You'll get a bill, but it can be adjusted once your affiliation is effective. Never give up urgent care because your file isn't validated yet.
Good habits
- Create your Ameli account as soon as you have your number: everything is tracked there.
- Keep all supporting documents for at least two years.
- Report any change of address or situation.
Procedures and amounts change. Always check the information on official websites before starting a step.