How to Choose Health Insurance as a French Expatriate
Settling abroad as a French expatriate means opening a new chapter in your personal and professional life. But before embarking on this exciting adventure, it’s essential to properly prepare your health coverage. With options like the CFE (Caisse des Français de l’Étranger), international health insurance, and numerous plans available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Here’s a clear guide to help you make the right choices based on your profile, destination, and needs.
Why Taking Out Health Insurance as an Expatriate Is Essential
The Risks of Leaving Without Coverage
When leaving France to settle abroad, you automatically lose your Social Security rights, except in certain specific cases (such as seconded civil servants). Without suitable health insurance, medical expenses can quickly become a heavy burden, even a major financial risk.
The End of French Social Security for Expatriates
Being an expatriate means you no longer contribute to the French general social security system. As a result, in case of an accident, hospitalization, or even a simple consultation, you cannot expect any reimbursement unless you have taken out health insurance tailored to your situation.
What Health Insurance Options Are Available for French Expatriates?
The Caisse des Français de l’Étranger (CFE)
The CFE is a public organization that allows French expatriates to continue benefiting from social protection equivalent to that in France, covering areas such as health, workplace accidents, retirement, and maternity.
Advantages:
-
Coverage similar to that of Social Security
-
Maintains connection with the French system
-
Voluntary membership, with no age or income conditions
-
Reimbursement of medical care in France during temporary stays
Limitations:
-
Does not always provide 100% coverage
-
Often requires supplementary international health insurance
Private International Health Insurance Plans
Many insurance companies offer plans specifically designed for expatriates. These plans can:
-
Be taken out independently or as a supplement to the CFE
-
Offer extensive coverage: hospitalization, routine care, dental, vision, repatriation, maternity, and more…
-
Be tailored to the destination and local cost of living
Advantages:
-
High flexibility
-
Fast coverage and often direct billing with hospitals
-
Premium options available
Disadvantages :
-
Higher premiums
-
Certain exclusions or waiting periods depending on the policy
CFE Alone or Combined with Supplementary Coverage?
Many French expatriates choose a hybrid approach: CFE plus supplementary private insurance. This allows them to benefit from the French social security foundation while covering significant additional medical expenses abroad.
How to Choose Your Health Insurance Based on Your Profile
Expatriate Solo, as a Couple, or with Family
Health needs differ depending on whether you’re moving solo, as a couple, or with children. Check for family coverage and related services such as teleconsultations, pediatrics, and healthcare networks.
Length of Expatriation: Temporary or Long-Term?
A short-term expatriation (less than a year) doesn’t require the same level of coverage as a long-term stay. Some insurance plans offer adjustable options based on the duration.
Destination: Low or High Medical Cost Country?
In some countries (USA, Canada, Switzerland, Japan, etc.), medical costs are extremely high. High-end coverage is essential. Conversely, in other regions, a more basic plan may be sufficient.
Specific Needs: Maternity, Chronic Illnesses, Repatriation
If you require special medical follow-up, are planning a pregnancy, or want the option to return to France in an emergency, make sure these options are included in your policy.
The Cost of Health Insurance for Expatriates: What to Expect?
Cost of the CFE
The CFE contributions vary according to:
-
Age
-
Status (employee, self-employed, inactive)
-
Income level (in some cases)
Online simulators are available to estimate your contribution.
Average prices of private insurance
The cost depends on:
-
The coverage chosen
-
The geographical area
-
The age of the insured person
-
The number of beneficiaries
Expect to pay between €50 and €300 per month for adequate coverage, and more for premium benefits.
Tips to Optimize Your Health Budget Abroad
-
Compare multiple quotes
-
Check exclusions and deductibles
-
Choose a plan without extras but with essential coverage
-
Bundle family coverage to benefit from discounts
What if the real luxury was being in good health?
Health coverage, yes... but also proactive prevention
Having good health insurance is fundamental. But to fully embrace your expatriation, it’s equally important to adopt a healthy, balanced lifestyle: regular physical activity, nutritious diet, stress management…
Living Better Abroad Through Intuitive Eating and Mindful Living
At Wellness Voyages, we support expatriate women in reconnecting with their bodies and intuition through a holistic approach to well-being. Far from diets, demands, and constant control, our program “Well-being & Intuitive Eating” invites you to cultivate a new relationship with yourself, with food, and with health.
? Discover our Well-being & Intuitive Eating program
Expatriation is a turning point. What if this was the perfect moment to take back control of your physical and emotional health?
Our program helps you to:
-
Listen to your body’s true needs
-
Rediscover a peaceful relationship with food
-
Create a lasting balance between pleasure, health, and well-being