Healthcare Basics

Learn the basics of France's healthcare system, including how to obtain French health insurance and who to call in an emergency.

COVID-19 in France: coronavirus information and support

Find out everything you need to know about COVID-19 in France with our guide to coronavirus restrictions, information, and more.

Carte Vitale in France

If you’re moving to France, getting a Carte Vitale is a key step for accessing the public healthcare system and speeding up reimbursements. This guide explains what the card is, who’s eligible, how to apply through CPAM, typical timelines, what to do while you wait, and why you may still need a mutuelle. At a […]

Doctor giving advice to woman while sitting in medical clinic

Health insurance in France for international students

If you’ve been looking for student health insurance in France, know that healthcare access depends on your nationality, visa, and study plans. This guide helps you choose the right cover before you arrive, during enrolment, and while you wait for French paperwork. Do you need student health insurance in France? Yes, you need health cover […]

France long-stay visa health insurance guide

Work out your France long-stay visa health insurance based on your visa type, nationality, and planned length of stay. Compare the proof French authorities usually accept and avoid common mistakes before you apply. This guide explains which proof may fit your visa route and how to avoid a cover gap after arrival. Key takeaways Visa […]

Expat health insurance in France: Cigna vs Allianz

Whether you’re a newly arrived expat, a family, a retiree, or a frequent traveler, this comparison helps you decide whether Cigna Global France or Allianz Care France is the better fit alongside—or before—French public cover. France’s healthcare system is strong, but gaps can remain, especially during setup. This guide compares both insurers, what to check […]

EHIC Card France: What It Covers and How to Use It

Understand EHIC card France rules before you travel, so you know what treatment you can usually access during a temporary stay. This guide explains how EHIC or GHIC works in France, what it usually covers, what you may still pay yourself, and how to avoid common mistakes with paperwork, provider choice, and reimbursement. This guide […]

A pharmacy in Paris, France with a neon green sign above it.

Can you get antibiotics over the counter in France?

Understand antibiotic access in France with the key rule first: antibiotics are generally not sold over the counter, but trained pharmacists can dispense certain antibiotics in limited pharmacy-led cases. This guide explains when you need an ordonnance, when a pharmacy may be able to help, and where expats, students, and visitors can go for same-day […]

Facade of a local CPAM (caisse primaire d'assurance maladie), the administrating body of French healthcare

The French healthcare system

France has a universal public healthcare system. Find out how it works, who can access it, and how to register.

Guide to getting health insurance in France in 2026

Health insurance in France is split between public and private coverage. Find out who needs which, what they cover, how to register, and the costs.

Emergency services in France: numbers and helplines

Crises can be scary in any language, but don’t get caught out! Here’s which number and helpline to call in an emergency in France.

Vaccinations in France

Medical authorities recommend some vaccines in France and require others but what is the schedule and what costs does health insurance cover?

Smiling doctor writing prescription while listening to older woman in hospital.

Healthcare and health insurance for seniors in France

Explore options for senior healthcare and health insurance in France, including specialists, treatments, and assisted living.