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United Kingdom We take the hassle out of health insurance: these three health insurance companies provide international medical and dental insurance for expats in France. Get quick simple quotes, and check out our list of FAQs to select the best health coverage plan for you.
Health insurance quotes for expats in France
The Munich-headquartered financial services company offers international health insurance plans for expatriate students, professionals, couples and families. Depending on the policy, Allianz Care covers everyday medical expenses, emergency treatment, dental consultations, maternity, surgery, and outpatient fees.
APRIL International is a health and travel insurance provider operating in 180 countries. Their range of insurance products is tailored to the needs of expats, whether you’re relocating your family, studying for a semester abroad, enjoying a working holiday, or simply travelling. 130,000 expats already trust APRIL International.
Cigna Global is a health services company that serves expats and globally mobile individuals in more than 200 international jurisdictions. Cigna Global’s policies are easily customized to coverage and cost requirements, and customers can pick from three coverage levels, modular plans, and several cost-share options.
Healthcare in France
What do I need to receive healthcare in France?
In 2016, France introduced PUMA, its universal healthcare system for all residents, including expats. The system provides excellent quality subsidized healthcare for everyone, but expats must reside in France for three months before qualifying for state health insurance. Private or international health insurance can be used to cover this residency gap as well as any costs not covered through public funding, such as alternative or complementary therapy treatments.
Do I need private health insurance in France?
France has one of the best healthcare systems in the world and has been ranked #1 by the World Health Organization. However, medical care is not cheap and public insurance plans cover only around 70-80% of fees. Private health insurance can be used to cover remaining costs, access treatments not included in state coverage and plug any initial coverage gaps. Private insurance is also required by anyone unable to access subsidized PUMA treatment (e.g. short-term visitors).
FAQ: Health Insurance in France
If you decide to opt for private health coverage in France, make sure you research the market thoroughly and choose the best package for your needs from the many on offer.
Here are some key considerations:
1. Does the package cover family members?
All family members are eligible for coverage under the French PUMA state scheme, and children aged under 16 are automatically covered. Private insurance packages usually only cover the individual applicant. You’ll have to ask about family coverage and assess costs.
2. Are there any restrictions, limitations or exclusions on the policy, e.g. relating to age or pre-existing conditions?
Private policies have premiums that are usually based on risk factors such as age, lifestyle and medical history. Check to see what is and isn’t covered before signing up to avoid getting caught out.
3. What’s a coverage gap and could I be affected?
The residency requirement for accessing the PUMA system is three months, therefore all new residents without some form of international health insurance (e.g. European Health Insurance Card) will need to purchase private insurance to cover this initial period.
4. Am I covered while I travel?
French public health insurance will cover you for some treatments in other EU/EEA countries and anywhere that has a mutual healthcare agreement with France. An expat-friendly international health insurance package that provides global coverage is recommended for frequent travelers.
5. What treatments are covered?
PUMA coverage is fairly extensive and includes treatment from doctors and specialists, hospital care, maternity care, dental care and a range of preventative check ups but it doesn’t cover treatment from psychologists, chiropractors or osteopaths. These can be covered by private plans.
6. How straightforward is the process for making a claim?
Since the end of 2017, doctors and many medical personnel are not allowed to charge patients upfront for subsidized costs. This has made the public insurance scheme much more straightforward. With many private insurers, however, you may have to pay full costs upfront and apply for reimbursements. It’s a good idea to check the claims process with private companies so you’re prepared for any out-of-pocket periods.
