Health and insurance for International Students in France

Everything you need to know

Planning to study in France with one of the schools or programs offered by Galileo Global Education? Understanding your health insurance requirements is essential for a successful academic journey. As an international student enrolled in one of the Galileo Global Education institutions, you need proper medical coverage throughout your stay in France, this is both mandatory and crucial for your wellbeing. The French healthcare system, known for its excellence, offers specific options for foreign students depending on factors like your age, nationality, and length of study. Whether you qualify for the French social security system or need private insurance, we’ll guide you through all the requirements and help you make informed decisions about your health coverage in France.Let's explore how you can protect your health while studying in this remarkable country.

Understanding the French healthcare system

France's social security system provides broad medical coverage through Protection Universelle Maladie (PUMA). The system reimburses about 70% of standard medical expenses and up to 100% for serious conditions. Public hospitals (hôpitaux) and private clinics (cliniques) both operate under this structure, offering high-quality care to residents.

Medical consultations with general practitioners cost €25, while specialist visits range from €30 to €60. The French system emphasizes preventive care and regular check-ups through a network of over 102,000 general practitioners across the country.

Most healthcare services require upfront payment, with reimbursements processed through your Carte Vitale health insurance card. This efficient system ensures quick access to medical care while maintaining some of the highest healthcare standards in Europe.

Can foreign students get free coverage?

Many international students benefit from France's public healthcare coverage at no cost. Students under 28 years old who plan to study for more than three months can access the French social security system. European Union students with a valid European Health Insurance Card receive automatic coverage during their stay.

Non-European students need to register through the dedicated platform etudiant-etranger.ameli.fr. The registration process requires your birth certificate, proof of enrollment from your higher education institution, and valid residence permit. Once registered, you'll receive a temporary social security number while waiting for your permanent Carte Vitale.

For comprehensive protection, consider supplemental health insurance (mutuelle) to cover the remaining 30% of healthcare expenses. This additional coverage typically costs between €50 to €200 yearly.

Essential requirements for student visa insurance

For stays under 90 days, your health insurance must provide minimum coverage of €37,500 for medical expenses and include repatriation benefits. Your policy needs validation throughout your entire stay in France.

Students from non-EU countries staying longer than three months must show proof of comprehensive health coverage when applying for their visa. Your insurance should cover hospitalization, outpatient care, and emergency medical evacuation.

Private insurance policies typically need to include civil liability coverage protecting you against potential damages to third parties during your studies. Remember to obtain your insurance certificate in both English and French to facilitate visa processing and university enrollment.

Best insurance options for international studies

Students aged 28 or older have several reliable options for health coverage in France. Leading providers like Swisscare and APRIL International offer comprehensive student plans covering medical visits, hospitalization, and emergency care. These private insurers provide policies that meet visa requirements while ensuring access to France's excellent healthcare network.

European students benefit from the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which grants access to public healthcare services. For non-EU students seeking additional protection, complementary health insurance through providers such as AXA or IMG fills coverage gaps and typically includes dental care, specialist consultations, and prescription medications.

Keep your country of origin and degree program duration in mind when selecting coverage, as these factors influence both eligibility and coverage needs.

How much does student health coverage cost?

The French social security system provides free basic health coverage for qualified students. For those needing private insurance, annual premiums range from €50 to €200 for complementary health insurance (mutuelle).

Private insurance costs vary based on coverage level and age. Basic plans start at €30 monthly, while comprehensive packages covering dental and specialist care range from €50 to €80 per month. Students requiring Schengen visa insurance should budget €150-300 for annual coverage meeting the minimum €37,500 medical expense requirement.

Remember that medical consultation fees typically require upfront payment. General practitioner visits cost €25, with the national health insurance plan reimbursing 70% of this amount when using your Carte Vitale.

Benefits of getting a mutuelle in France

A French mutuelle provides peace of mind with enhanced medical coverage during your studies. Beyond basic social security benefits, your mutuelle opens access to specialized treatments like advanced dental care and premium optical services. Many providers offer student-specific plans that include mental health support and preventive care programs.

Your mutuelle card simplifies the payment process at pharmacies and medical offices. Most providers maintain partnerships with university health centers, making it easier to receive care on campus. Some plans even include coverage for sports-related injuries and alternative therapies, ensuring comprehensive protection throughout your academic journey.

Students can choose from flexible plans that match their specific needs and budget, with many providers offering online platforms for easy claim submissions and reimbursement tracking.

Key steps to access medical care in France

Register with a primary care physician as your first step to enter the French healthcare system.

When seeking medical treatment, bring your Carte Vitale or attestation to every appointment. For urgent care needs, contact the 24/7 medical hotline at 15, or visit the nearest hospital's emergency department.

Schedule regular check-ups through your university health service, which often provides free health promotion programs and illness prevention services. Most campus medical offices maintain extended hours during exam periods and offer mental health support in multiple languages.