Social Security Registration and Healthcare Access

France's healthcare system is excellent but requires proper registration:

Understanding the System

Universal Coverage - All legal residents entitled - Covers 70-100% of costs - Includes family members - No pre-existing condition exclusions

How It Works 1. Register with social security (CPAM) 2. Receive temporary number 3. Get Carte Vitale (health card) 4. Choose treating physician 5. Pay upfront, get reimbursed

Registration Process

For Employees - Employer initiates process - Provide birth certificate (translated) - Complete forms they provide - Process takes 3-6 months

For Self-Employed - Register with URSSAF first - Then apply to SSI - More complex process - Consider accountant assistance

For Non-Workers - Apply for PUMA (Protection Universelle Maladie) - After 3 months residence - Prove stable residence - Income-based contributions

For Students - Register on etudiant-etranger.ameli.fr - Free for under 28s - Simple online process - Valid for academic year

Required Documents

- Passport and visa - Birth certificate (official translation) - Proof of address - RIB (bank details) - Employment contract or student card - Marriage certificate (if applicable)

Temporary Coverage

While waiting for Carte Vitale: - Pay full price upfront - Keep all receipts (feuilles de soins) - Submit for reimbursement - Consider temporary insurance - European Health Insurance Card (for EU citizens)

Choosing Complementary Insurance (Mutuelle)

Why It's Important - Covers remaining 30% not reimbursed - Dental and vision extras - Private room in hospitals - Faster specialist access

Options - Employer-provided (mandatory offers) - Individual contracts - Student mutuelles - Income-based CMU-C