Healthcare in France: How It Works and What You Need to Do as an International Student

Introduction

Even for French students, understanding the healthcare system isn’t always easy. So if you’re an international student, it might feel even more confusing!

Social Security, complementary health insurance, third-party payment… it’s easy to get lost in all the terms. But don’t worry—we’re here to help you figure it all out!

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how the French healthcare system works, the administrative steps you’ll need to take, and personalized advice based on your nationality and how long you’re staying in France.

Ready to master the French healthcare system? Let’s go! ☺️

How Does the French Healthcare System Work?

French Health Insurance: What You Need to Know

French health insurance (Assurance Maladie) is the basic healthcare coverage for anyone living in France, including international students. It’s managed by Social Security and reimburses part of your medical expenses.

How does it work?

• Once you register with Social Security, you’ll receive a personal social security number and, a few weeks later, a Carte Vitale.
• This card allows for automatic reimbursement of medical expenses directly into your French bank account.
• You’ll need it for all medical appointments (doctor visits, hospital stays, etc.).

What’s covered?

• Doctor consultations: Reimbursed at 70% of the official rate (e.g., €25 for a general practitioner, €17.50 reimbursed).
• Hospital stays: Covered up to 80% for standard costs.
• Medications: Reimbursement between 15% and 100%, depending on the type of medication.
• Specialized treatments: Including major treatments, maternity care, and chronic illnesses.

📢 Important: French health insurance doesn’t cover everything! To cover extra costs, you’ll need a mutuelle.

Mutuelles: Why Are They Important?

In France, health insurance doesn’t cover 100% of medical expenses. Whether it’s a doctor’s visit, prescription medication, or hospital care, there’s usually an amount left for you to pay.

That’s where mutuelles (private health insurance plans) come in—they cover the remaining costs not reimbursed by Social Security.

💡 Did you know?

• Almost everyone in France has a mutuelle. When you’re young, you’re often covered by your parents’ plan.
• As a student, you can sign up for a student-specific mutuelle that fits your needs and budget (routine healthcare, mental health consultations, dental care, etc.).
• Later, when you start working, your employer provides health insurance and covers at least 50% of the cost.
• This means you’re covered throughout your life—from student years to retirement.

For international students, a mutuelle isn’t mandatory but is highly recommended if you’re staying more than 3 months. It helps you avoid unexpected expenses and covers more expensive treatments like glasses, dental work, or hospitalization.

Some providers, like Heyme, offer student-friendly health plans at affordable rates.

In short: Why should you get a mutuelle?

• Covers the 30% not reimbursed by Social Security.
• Helps with extra costs (optical, dental, specialist fees).
• Gives peace of mind in case of unexpected medical expenses.

🔎 Recommended Student Mutuelle:

• Heyme: Flexible plans at student-friendly prices, tailored for international students.

Accessing Healthcare in France: How It Works

Doctor Visits: General Practitioners & Specialists

If you have a health issue while in France (non-emergency), start by visiting a general practitioner (GP). If needed, they’ll refer you to a specialist.

• General Practitioner (GP):
  
  • First point of contact for medical issues.
  • Standard consultation: €25 (70% reimbursed by Social Security).
• Specialists:
  
  • Examples: Dermatologists, ophthalmologists, gynecologists.
  • You can book an appointment directly, but waiting times can be long.
  • Fees vary, and some specialists charge extra.

💡 Tip: Use Doctolib to find doctors near you and book appointments in just a few clicks. It’s free, and you can apply filters to find a doctor who speaks your language — super helpful for international students!

Pharmacies in France

French pharmacies do more than sell medicine—they also offer medical advice and dispense prescriptions.

What can you find there?

• Prescription medications.
• Over-the-counter products (pain relievers, vitamins, etc.).
• Personalized advice for minor issues (cold, allergies, etc.).

How does reimbursement work?

• Prescribed medication: Partially or fully reimbursed, depending on its classification.
• Non-prescribed medication: Fully at your expense.

💡 Need a pharmacy open at night or on Sundays? Check pharmacie-de-garde.org.

Hospitals & Emergency Services

If you have a serious medical issue, French hospitals and clinics provide high-quality care.

• Emergency numbers:
  
  • 15 (SAMU – medical emergencies)
  • 112 (EU-wide emergency number)
    
    
• Hospitalization:
  
  • 80% covered by Social Security.
  • A mutuelle can cover the remaining 20% and extra services (private room, TV, etc.).

Health Insurance Registration Steps Based on Your Status

If You’re from the EU/EEA

• Short stay (<3 months): Use your EHIC to access healthcare. Reimbursements are handled by your home country.
• Long stay (>3 months): Your EHIC is valid for two years (if requested before departure). Otherwise, consider getting a mutuelle for full coverage.

If You’re from a Non-EU Country

• Short stay (<3 months): Get private health insurance (like Heyme or SMENO) covering emergencies and routine care.
• Long stay (>3 months): Registration with French Social Security is mandatory. A mutuelle is recommended for extra coverage

Practical Resources for Managing Your Health

Useful Websites & Emergency Numbers

• SAMU (medical emergencies): 15
• Fire department & rescue services: 18
• EU-wide emergency number: 112
• Ameli.fr: Registration and management of your Social Security account

Apps & Tools for International Students

• Doctolib & Clickdoc: Online appointment booking

Conclusion

Navigating the French healthcare system might seem overwhelming at first, but it’s an essential step to prepare for your stay. Once registered, you’ll benefit from high-quality and reliable health coverage, allowing you to focus on your studies stress-free. 👌

Start by identifying the necessary steps based on your nationality and the length of your stay. If you’re unsure, reach out to your university or student associations for guidance. And remember, our community helpers are always here to support you!

We hope this guide has made things clearer—good luck with the process! And fingers crossed that you won’t need to use your health insurance too often during your stay! 😉