Private health insurance in France

Q: Why do I need a complementary health insurance (mutuelle) in France?

While the French public health system (Sécurité Sociale) covers a portion of medical expenses, it rarely reimburses 100% of the costs. Additionally, fees exceeding the standard rates (dépassements d’honoraires) charged by some healthcare professionals are not covered. A complementary health insurance helps cover these additional expenses, reducing your out-of-pocket costs.

Q: Who is eligible for Feather's health insurance?

Our health insurance plans are designed for expats residing in France who are registered with the French social security system. This includes: Actively working professionals Freelancers and self-employed individuals Retirees & non-workers Students

Q: Can I have multiple complementary health insurance policies?

While it's possible to hold multiple complementary health insurance policies, it is generally unnecessary and may not provide additional benefits. One comprehensive policy is typically sufficient to cover the gaps left by Sécurité Sociale.

Q: Am I covered worldwide with private health insurance?

You're fully covered in France and throughout Europe. Outside the EU, only emergency and unexpected medical care is covered.

Colleagues clapping hands happily after finding the right insurance plan.

What is private health insurance?

In France, healthcare coverage works in two layers:

1st Layer – Public Health Insurance

Once you're registered with French Social Security (Sécurité Sociale), the public system covers only part of your medical expenses:

70% of general practitioner and radiology visits
15% to 65% of medication costs
60% of nursing care, physiotherapy, and lab tests

2nd Layer – Private Health Insurance

Private health insurance (also known as a mutuelle or complémentaire santé) steps in to cover the remaining costs. It complements the public system and helps ensure you’re not left with out-of-pocket expenses.

Benefits of private health insurance

1. No upfront payments

The tiers payant system, widely used in France, allows for direct billing between your healthcare provider and the insurer. This means you can enjoy medical care without worrying about advance payments—just present your mutuelle card along with your carte Vitale.

2. Better coverage and faster appointments

Private insurance helps cover fees from specialists who charge above the national base rate ("Secteur 2").

Choosing a Secteur 1 doctor ensures full reimbursement by public insurance
A Secteur 2 doctor might charge more, but private insurance can cover the difference — and they often have shorter wait times

This flexibility lets you choose the care that fits your schedule and needs.

3. Fully customizable

You choose what matters most: dental, vision, hospitalization. You can adjust your coverage and reimbursement levels depending on your lifestyle and budget. Clear options, no surprises.