If you’ve recently made the move to France (or are dreaming about it while sipping tea and browsing property listings in the Dordogne), you might have come across something called the S1 form. It’s a small document with big significance—especially if you’re retired and planning to settle down here long-term.
So, what exactly is the S1? Who needs it, and what do you do once you’ve got one? Don’t worry—we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, step by step.
🇬🇧 What is the S1 Form?
The S1 form is a certificate issued by the UK that allows you, as a British national, to access the French healthcare system at the UK’s expense. That means you can get registered with CPAM (Caisse Primaire d’Assurance Maladie), apply for your Carte Vitale, and start enjoying France’s famously high-quality public healthcare—without paying into the French system like a worker or business owner would.
It’s part of the UK’s reciprocal healthcare agreement with France, and it’s incredibly useful if you’re retiring to France or receiving a qualifying UK benefit.
👀 Who is Eligible for an S1?
You might be eligible for an S1 if you fall into one of the following categories:
- You’re receiving a UK state pension (and not working in France)
- You receive certain UK disability or incapacity benefits
- You’re a posted worker temporarily working in France for a UK employer
- You’re a dependent (spouse/partner) of someone with an S1
If you’re under pension age and not receiving qualifying benefits, you’re not eligible—but you can still register with CPAM another way (such as through PUMa, based on stable residence).
🏥 Why Do I Need It?
Without an S1, you’d need to contribute to the French healthcare system like a local—through employment, self-employment, or after a waiting period via PUMa. With an S1, you bypass all of that and get immediate access to public healthcare, reimbursed by the UK.
This includes doctor’s visits, specialist care, hospital stays, and more—just like any other resident. It’s not 100% free (reimbursements usually cover around 70%), but that’s where a mutuelle (top-up health insurance) comes in handy.
🗂️ How to Apply for an S1
If you’re eligible, applying for the S1 is fairly straightforward:
Step 1: Request the Form
Contact NHS Overseas Healthcare Services (part of the NHS Business Services Authority):
- By phone (from outside the UK): +44 191 218 1999
- Or visit: www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk
You’ll need your National Insurance number and some proof of your status (like your pension award letter).
Step 2: Register with CPAM
Once you have your S1:
- Fill in the Form 15763*02 (Application for Health Insurance in France)
- Include your S1, passport, proof of address, birth certificate, and residency documentation
- Send it all to your local CPAM office
Some departments require appointments; others accept postal applications. Be prepared for a wait—but once you’re processed, you’ll get your social security number, then your Carte Vitale.
💡 Top Tips
- Keep copies of everything you send—especially your S1!
- Register on Ameli.fr (France’s health portal) once you’re in the system
- Don’t forget to sort out your mutuelle for full coverage
- If your circumstances change (moving, marriage, divorce, returning to the UK), let CPAM know
✨ Let Hello Santé Make It Easy
We know how daunting this can all feel—especially if French bureaucracy isn’t your strong suit. At Hello Santé, we help English speakers in France register for healthcare with confidence and clarity. That includes:
- Helping you fill out the 15763*02 form
- Translating documents
- Making sure your S1 is properly registered
- Following up with CPAM if things go quiet (as they sometimes do!)
We’ll make sure everything is done correctly the first time—saving you time, stress, and possibly a few grey hairs.
Ready to register your S1 and get healthcare sorted?
Let Hello Santé support you every step of the way—so you can focus on enjoying life in France.