Understanding Eligibility (Without a Headache)
Moving to France and wondering whether you’re eligible for the healthcare system? You’re not alone. The good news is that France has one of the most inclusive and comprehensive public healthcare systems in the world—and if you’re living here, chances are you can access it. You just need to know how to tick the right boxes. Let’s break it down together.
First up: Who is eligible?
If you’re legally living in France for more than three months, you’re probably entitled to register for French healthcare through the PUMA system (that’s Protection Universelle Maladie, but don’t worry—there’s no test on the acronym).
PUMA gives residents access to the public healthcare system, including:
- Doctor visits
- Hospital treatment
- Specialist care
- Prescriptions
- Emergency care
- Long-term condition coverage (ALD)
You don’t need to be employed or retired to qualify. You just need to be a stable resident.
✅ The Basics: What You Need to Qualify
To register with the system, you generally need to meet three criteria:
1. Legal residence in France
You must be living in France full time with the intention of staying. A long-stay visa or residency permit (like a visa de long séjour or carte de séjour) is essential.
2. Three months of residence
You need to prove you’ve lived in France continuously for at least 3 months before applying. Documents like utility bills, rent agreements, or your home insurance policy can work as evidence.
💡 Moving with health needs? Start collecting these documents from day one—you’ll need them.
3. No affiliation to another country’s healthcare system
If you’re no longer covered by your home country’s healthcare, or if you’re self-employed or not working, France becomes your primary healthcare provider.
What if I’m working in France?
Perfect! If you’re employed or self-employed in France, you’re automatically enrolled in the healthcare system via your work. Your employer or business registration handles the contributions, and you can apply for your Carte Vitale straight away.
Hello Santé tip: Even if you qualify through work, the paperwork can still be tricky—so don’t be afraid to ask for help.
What if I’m retired?
Retired folks can also qualify! If you’re moving from the UK or EU, your S1 form may allow you to transfer your health coverage. If you’re from outside the EU, you may need to apply through residency and the standard PUMA process.
And students?
International students can register for French student health insurance (called sécurité sociale étudiante) or the main system depending on your age, status, and duration of stay. Most are covered once they’re enrolled in a recognised French institution.
What if I have no income?
That’s okay too. One of the best things about PUMA is that it isn’t tied to employment. If you’re living in France legally and meet the three-month requirement, you can apply—even if you’re not earning.
You may be asked to make a small annual contribution based on your income (or lack of it), but you won’t be left without access to care.
What Documents Will I Need?
Here’s a quick list of what you might be asked for:
- Passport or ID
- Long-stay visa or carte de séjour
- Proof of address (utility bills, rental contract)
- French bank account (RIB)
- Birth certificate (possibly with translation)
- Proof of residence over 3 months
- Tax documents (if applicable)
Overwhelmed? That’s Where Hello Santé Comes In.
At Hello Santé, we know how confusing, inconsistent, and paper-heavy this process can be—especially in a new language. We’ve helped people from all walks of life get set up, from retirees and families to freelancers, students, and people with ongoing health needs.
We offer:
- Personalised help with CPAM applications
- One-to-one support in English
- Clear explanations of every form and requirement
- Advice tailored to your situation
We make sure nothing gets lost in translation—and we’re right here if you need a hand (or a shoulder to cry on).
Final Thoughts: Yes, You Probably Are Eligible
If you’re living in France and planning to stay, there’s a very good chance you can access the healthcare system. The process might be slow, and the paperwork might make you want to scream into a baguette—but once you’re in, you’ll be in one of the best systems in the world.
And we’ll be here to help you through it.
👋 Ready to get started?
Book a 1:1 session with Hello Santé or get in touch—we’d love to support you.