France

Public system

How health coverage works

In France, basic health cover is provided by the public system.

The public Assurance Maladie reimburses part of most medical costs. Most residents add a complementary health insurance (“mutuelle”) to cover the remainder.

Official source: Assurance Maladie (ameli.fr)

Basic coverage is provided by the public system. Assurance Maladie (ameli.fr)

Complementary insurance (mutuelles)

Key facts

Official sourceAssurance Maladie (ameli.fr)
Insurers listedAllianz, AXA, Groupama, Harmonie Mutuelle, Malakoff Humanis, MGEN
Last reviewed

Frequently asked questions

How does health insurance work in France?

The public Assurance Maladie reimburses part of most medical costs. Most residents add a complementary health insurance (“mutuelle”) to cover the remainder.

Is private health insurance mandatory in France?

No. In France, basic cover comes from the public system. Private health insurance is optional and usually complements it.

Which health insurers can I look at in France?

Well-known insurers listed for France, in alphabetical order: Allianz, AXA, Groupama, Harmonie Mutuelle, Malakoff Humanis, MGEN. This is not a ranking or a recommendation.

Where can I find official information on health cover in France?

Assurance Maladie (ameli.fr): https://www.ameli.fr