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.

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

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.

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.

Private health insurance in France (mutuelle): Get a quote

Your healthcare costs at a glance

Public health insurance in France (Sécurité Sociale) reimburses only part of your medical costs—typically between 30% and 70%. A complementary health insurance policy (mutuelle) covers the remaining expenses and helps protect you from high out-of-pocket medical costs.

Below, you can see what someone typically pays with Sécurité Sociale alone compared to Sécurité Sociale plus Feather Mutuelle (Comfort plan example).

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Benefits of adding a mutuelle

Match how healthcare really works in France

The French system is built around having both Sécurité Sociale and a mutuelle. Joining both means you’re using it the way locals do.

image of the different reimbursement layers

Keep healthcare affordable

Doctor visits, specialists, blood tests, and prescriptions become much easier to budget for when you’re not paying the full “reste à charge” each time. Discover our coverage details.

Who is it for?

Freelancers & profession libérale

You’re self-employed or run your own business in France. A mutuelle helps stabilise your healthcare costs — and if your legal status allows it, premiums for a responsible contract may be tax-deductible (Madelin-eligible).

a patient and doctor sharing a diagnosis

Retirees & non-workers

You rely on the French system (and possibly an S1) for your base cover, but want better reimbursement for specialists, ongoing treatments, and regular check-ups.

2 students smiling and looking at each other

Students & young adults

Even if you’re healthy, dental care, glasses or an unexpected exam can be expensive. A mutuelle keeps costs manageable while you study or start working.

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Employees & job seekers

You’re employed, between jobs, or not covered by a company plan and want more than the basic reimbursements from Sécurité Sociale.

Families

You have children or dependants who use healthcare regularly. A mutuelle helps for paediatrics, dental, glasses, and everyday visits. From the third child onward, special family pricing can apply depending on the plan.