Health Insurance Requirements for a French Visa: What You Need to Know

When planning a move to France, one of the most important requirements for obtaining a long-stay visa is health insurance. Whether you're relocating for retirement, work, or simply a change of lifestyle, the French government requires all visa applicants to show proof of adequate medical coverage. But the type of insurance you need will depend on the kind of visa you're applying for.

Why Health Insurance Matters for Your Visa

The French healthcare system is one of the best in the world—but before you gain access to it as a resident, you must prove you won’t be a burden on the state. This is why private health insurance or equivalent cover is mandatory during the visa application process. It ensures you are protected in the event of illness or an accident while also meeting France’s administrative expectations.

Insurance Requirements by Visa Type

1. Short-Term Long-Stay Visa (VLS-T – up to 6 months)

For temporary stays of up to six months, applicants must present a travel or private health insurance policy that includes:

• Emergency medical treatment

• Hospitalisation

• Medical repatriation (including in the event of death)

• A minimum coverage amount of €30,000

• Coverage valid in all Schengen countries for the entire stay

UK or EU nationals with a valid GHIC/EHIC card may sometimes use it to satisfy this requirement. However, as these cards don’t usually include repatriation, the French consulate may still require additional private insurance.

2. Long-Stay Visa Equivalent to a Residence Permit (VLS-TS – up to 12 months)

For stays of up to a year, travel insurance alone is not sufficient. You’ll need comprehensive private medical insurance that:

• Covers routine care, specialist consultations, hospital stays, and emergency treatment

•  Includes medical repatriation

•  Offers a minimum of €30,000 in medical coverage

•  Is valid for the entire visa duration

•  Has no deductibles or excesses

For UK pensioners, the S1 form issued by the NHS may be accepted in lieu of private insurance. This document allows you to access French healthcare on the same basis as a resident and may meet visa conditions, depending on your situation.

After You Arrive in France

Once you’ve been living in France for at least three months, you may become eligible to apply for the PUMA (Protection Universelle Maladie), France’s public healthcare system. This gives you access to the state health insurance scheme and allows you to receive a Carte Vitale, which reimburses most medical expenses (typically 70–100%).

Many expats also choose to take out a "mutuelle"—a top-up complementary insurance plan to cover costs not fully reimbursed by the state system, such as dental care, eyeglasses, and specialist fees.

What to Submit with Your Visa Application

To avoid delays or rejection, make sure your health insurance certificate includes all the required details:

• Clearly shows your full name and policy number

• Valid for the entire visa duration

• Lists at least €30,000 of medical coverage

• Explicitly mentions emergency care, hospitalisation, and repatriation

• Specifies no deductibles or excesses

• Written in French or English

If you're using a GHIC, EHIC, or S1 form, double-check that these documents meet all the consulate’s conditions. You may need to supplement them with additional insurance for repatriation.

Finding the Right Insurance

Several international insurers offer visa-compliant policies tailored to people moving to France. Here at A new Life in France we have direct links to leading insurers who offer plans designed to meet consulate requirements. Use the form below to contact our Support Team who will be happy to help you.

Final Thoughts

Health insurance isn’t just a bureaucratic step—it’s your safety net as you start a new chapter in France. Ensuring your coverage meets the visa requirements not only increases your chances of approval but also gives you peace of mind as you settle into life abroad.

If you'd like help comparing policies or choosing a plan based on your visa type and personal circumstances, please fill in the form below.

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