Health insurance in France
Health cover for every chapter of expat life
Cover for every stage
A plan that fits wherever you are
Support that gets it
Real people, anytime.
Everything in English
No French paperwork.
Why do I need health insurance in France?
France has one of the world's best healthcare systems — but it's not always easy to navigate as a newcomer. Whether you're arriving on a visa, settling in, or already living here, you'll need the right cover at the right stage.
There are three main options — expat insurance, the public system (Sécurité Sociale), and a mutuelle on top. Cost, eligibility, and coverage depend on your situation.
What options do I have?
Your health insurance needs in France depend on where you are in your journey. Choose the option that fits your situation best.
Switching between policies
Health insurance in France isn't one decision — it's a journey. Here's how it usually goes:
Start with expat health insurance
It's recognized by French immigration, so it covers you for your visa and keeps you protected from day one — before you're eligible for the public system.
Join the public system
After around 3 months in France, you can register with Sécurité Sociale. We'll handle the paperwork and follow-ups until your SSN comes through. Once you're in, your expat policy has done its job and you can cancel it with one click.
Add a mutuelle on top.
The public system covers the basics, but not the full bill. A mutuelle tops it up — so you're left paying little to nothing on everyday care, and you're covered for dental, optical, and more.
Who are our products for?
Newcomers & visa seekers
You are moving to France, applying for a visa, or renewing your residence permit. Expat health insurance helps you get the documents you need and stay covered before you join the French public system.
Recommended path: Expat health insurance → CPAM registration → Mutuelle
People waiting for CPAM
You already live in France but do not yet have your French social security number or Carte Vitale. Expat health insurance can keep you covered while Feather helps you prepare and submit your CPAM application.
Recommended path: Expat health insurance → CPAM registration → Mutuelle
Freelancers & Self-employed
As soon as you register your business in France, you should receive a French Social Security Number, which allows you to access the public healthcare system. A mutuelle can then help cover the costs that Sécurité Sociale does not fully reimburse, protecting you from unexpected medical bills.
Recommended path: Mutuelle
Retirees & non-workers
You may not have employer coverage, and your healthcare needs may increase over time. Feather helps you understand whether expat health insurance, CPAM registration, or a mutuelle is right for your situation.
Recommended path: Expat health insurance or CPAM registration → Mutuelle
Families
You are moving with a partner, children, or dependents. Feather helps you understand which family members need expat health insurance, how to register with CPAM, and how to choose mutuelle coverage for everyone.
Recommended path: Family expat health insurance → CPAM registration → Family mutuelle
Students
You need affordable protection while studying in France. Depending on your status, you may need visa-compliant expat health insurance, CPAM registration, or a mutuelle for extra coverage like GP visits, dental care, and glasses.
Recommended path: Expat health insurance or CPAM registration → Mutuelle
Why Feather?
100,000+ happy customers
Experience peace of mind with insurance crafted by expats, for expats.
22,000+ claims processed
Fast and reliable service to get your money back in days, not months.
4.8 Star rating
Over 1,700 reviews can't be wrong.
English-speaking support
No need for translations—our team speaks your language.
All digital
Sign up, file claims, and manage your policy within our app.
Privacy first
We store your data in Europe; it remains private, secure and GDPR compliant.
