French public health insurance is called Assurance Maladie. Once you are eligible and registered, you can receive reimbursements for healthcare costs.

Registration

Depending on your status, you may register through work, studies, or residence. You will usually need identity documents, proof of residence, birth certificate, bank details, and proof of status.

Carte Vitale

The Carte Vitale helps healthcare professionals send reimbursement information directly. It is not a payment card, but it makes reimbursement faster.

Day-to-day health

Choose a médecin traitant when possible, keep prescriptions and receipts, and consider a mutuelle for costs not fully reimbursed by public insurance.