Insurance Requirements for Moving to France
Securing appropriate insurance coverage is a mandatory step for most foreign nationals planning to relocate to France. The French administrative system requires proof of specific insurance policies both for the visa application process and for the initial months of residency. Requirements vary significantly based on the individual's nationality, the type of visa requested, and the planned duration of stay.
For the 2025/2026 period, French authorities have maintained strict compliance standards regarding coverage minimums and the validity of international providers. Failure to present valid insurance certificates can lead to visa denials or delays in administrative procedures upon arrival.
Visa-Compliant Medical Insurance
Most non-EU/EEA citizens applying for a Long-Stay Visa (Visa de Longue Durée - VLS) must provide proof of private medical insurance. This insurance serves as a bridge before the individual becomes eligible for the French state healthcare system.
Minimum Coverage Requirements
- Coverage Limit: Policies must generally provide a minimum coverage of 30,000 EUR ($32,400 USD, Jan 2026) for medical expenses.
- Repatriation: The policy must cover the full cost of medical evacuation and repatriation of remains to the home country.
- Duration: The certificate must cover the entire initial period of the visa (usually the first 12 months) or until the applicant can prove eligibility for French Social Security.
- Deductibles: Some consulates require policies with zero deductibles or "first-euro" coverage.
Eligibility for State Healthcare
New residents in France are typically eligible for the Protection Universelle Maladie (PUMa) after three months of stable and continuous residence. During this three-month waiting period, maintaining private insurance is mandatory. Detailed information on state health registration can be found on the official Ameli website.
Housing and Civil Liability Insurance
In France, "Assurance Habitation" (Home Insurance) is a legal requirement for all tenants. This insurance must be active from the first day of the lease. Most landlords or real estate agencies will not hand over keys without a certificat d'assurance.
Civil Liability (Responsabilité Civile)
Standard French home insurance policies include "Responsabilité Civile." This covers the policyholder against financial consequences if they cause accidental damage or injury to a third party. This coverage is frequently requested by schools for student registration and by employers for internships.
Estimated Costs
The cost of housing insurance varies by location and property size. For a one-bedroom apartment in a major city, premiums typically range from 15 EUR to 30 EUR per month ($16.20 USD to $32.40 USD, Jan 2026). Coverage usually includes:
- Water damage and fire.
- Theft and vandalism (optional add-on).
- Natural disasters.
Practical Steps Before Departure
To ensure a smooth transition, expatriates should follow a structured timeline for insurance acquisition:
- Verify Visa Requirements: Check the specific insurance requirements for your visa type on the official France-Visas portal.
- Select a Global or Local Provider: Ensure the provider can issue an insurance certificate in French or English.
- Coordinate Effective Dates: The insurance start date must coincide with the planned arrival date in France.
- Prepare Digital and Physical Copies: Keep printed copies of all certificates for border control and initial administrative appointments (the OFII or Préfecture).
Exceptions and Special Cases
- EU/EEA Citizens: Individuals from the EU/EEA can use the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for temporary stays, but should obtain an S1 form if they are relocating permanently to transfer their rights to the French system.
- Posted Workers: Employees sent to France by a foreign company may remain covered by their home country’s social security system under bilateral agreements, provided they have a certificate of coverage (e.g., A1 or equivalent).
- Students: International students under 28 are often eligible for specific student insurance rates and immediate registration with the French student social security system upon enrollment in a recognized institution.
Note: Administrative rules regarding insurance can change based on updated legislation or bilateral treaties. Always consult the Service-Public.fr website for the most current legal requirements.