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.

Mutuelle for expats with a S1-Form in France

Illustration of the mutuelle refund concept

What is private health insurance?

In France, healthcare coverage works in two layers:

1st Layer – Public health insurance (Sécurité Sociale)

With an S1, you’re entitled to French public healthcare. It reimburses 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 (“mutuelle”)

A mutuelle complements this by covering what the public system doesn’t fully reimburse. That means fewer out-of-pocket bills for things like specialists, dental, glasses, or hospital extras.

Easy & human

Flexible

Cancel monthly, adjust coverage as needed.

Transparent

Clear pricing, no hidden extras.

Made for expats

English support, no jargon, direct integration with the French system — plus 30 days of worldwide coverage when visiting home.

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.

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.

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.

investor visa seeker looking at a tablet.

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.