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INSURANCE

the right

insurance

Moving to France is a dream for many, with its rich culture, exquisite cuisine, and stunning landscapes. However, settling into life as an expat means navigating essential aspects of daily living, including insurance. Understanding the French insurance system can help you avoid legal troubles and provide financial peace of mind.

With so many insurance providers in France, selecting the right one can be overwhelming. The team here at A New Life in France have relationships with many providers and can provide full English speaking support for you in all aspects of your insurance needs.

 

Getting the right insurance in France can feel daunting, but it’s essential for expats to protect themselves, their property, and their families. By understanding the various types of insurance and selecting coverage that matches your lifestyle, you’ll be better prepared to enjoy the French experience—stress-free and well-protected.

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health insurance

France is famous for its world-class healthcare system, consistently ranked among the best globally. As an expat, health insurance is non-negotiable.

 

Public Health Insurance: PUMA

France’s public health insurance system, Protection Universelle Maladie (PUMA), offers coverage to residents after three months of living in the country. Eligibility requires proof of residence, a valid residence permit, and proof of employment if applicable. Expats working in France typically pay into the system through social security contributions.

 

Why Go Private?

While PUMA covers much of the cost for doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescriptions, it doesn’t cover everything. Many expats opt for private health insurance (assurance santé complémentaire) to cover extras like dental care, vision care, and private hospital stays. For families, private insurance can provide added protection and faster medical service access.

Home Insurance

Finding a charming Parisian apartment or a cozy cottage in Provence is just the beginning; home insurance (assurance habitation) is mandatory for renters in France. This policy protects against damage caused by fires, floods, and theft, while also covering personal liability if you accidentally cause damage to the property or a neighbour’s home.

What to Look For:

Comprehensive Coverage: Ensure your policy covers natural disasters, especially if you live in flood- or earthquake-prone areas.

Policy Cost: Prices depend on your location, home size, and the type of coverage you choose.

Car Insurance in France

Car insurance (assurance auto) is mandatory in France, whether you own or lease a car. The minimum legal requirement is third-party liability insurance (responsabilité civile), which covers damage you cause to others. For added protection, you can opt for third-party, fire, and theft coverage (tiers collision) or comprehensive insurance (tous risques), which includes at-fault accidents, personal injuries, and vehicle repairs. To ensure you get the best coverage, compare insurance quotes before committing, and consider extras like roadside assistance (assistance dépannage) if you plan to travel frequently.

Travel Insurance

France’s central European location makes it a gateway for travel enthusiasts. Travel insurance (assurance voyage) ensures peace of mind when exploring the EU or beyond. This insurance covers trip cancellations, lost luggage, and emergency medical expenses abroad. Some private health insurance policies include travel coverage, so check your plan before purchasing additional insurance.

Life Insurance

Life insurance (assurance vie) is popular in France for both protection and investment. It offers financial security for your loved ones and can also serve as a long-term savings tool. Life insurance in France offers versatile options for expats, combining savings and protection. Savings-oriented plans provide tax-advantaged investment opportunities, while death coverage ensures a financial safety net for beneficiaries, helping with expenses like funerals or debt repayment. For those planning a long-term stay, life insurance can also serve as an essential estate-planning tool, particularly if your family resides outside France.

Liability Insurance

Personal liability insurance (responsabilité civile vie privée) is often bundled with home insurance. It covers accidental damage you cause to others, such as your child breaking a neighbor’s window or your pet damaging someone’s property. This relatively inexpensive policy can be a lifesaver in unexpected situations.

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