Best Expat Health Insurance in France (2026)

Cigna offers broad inpatient and outpatient coverage with access to private clinics and hospitals across France. Their documentation is familiar to French consulates, which reduces friction during the visa application process.

The tradeoff is cost. Cigna sits at the premium end of the market. For those planning to transition to Sécurité Sociale quickly (work visa holders, for example), this level of coverage may be temporary. But for Visitor Visa applicants who'll rely on private insurance long-term, Cigna's comprehensive coverage makes sense.

Allianz has strong European roots and recognition with French authorities. Their plans align well with what French consulates expect—clear coverage terms, comprehensive protection, and straightforward documentation.

For Visitor Visa applicants—who are committing not to work in France and living on passive income—Allianz offers the long-term stability that makes sense. The income requirement for Visitor Visas (typically €1,500+/month) suggests applicants can afford quality coverage.

SafetyWing offers affordable monthly pricing without long-term commitment—useful for work visa holders who expect to transition to Sécurité Sociale within months of arrival. The flexibility fits situations where coverage needs are temporary.

Important caveat: SafetyWing may not meet all French visa requirements, particularly for Visitor Visas which often require comprehensive, no-gap coverage. French consulates can be strict about insurance documentation. Before relying on SafetyWing for your visa application, verify your specific policy meets the requirements.

SafetyWing works best as transitional coverage for work visa holders, or as a supplement to French public healthcare for those wanting additional private options.

For the Visitor Visa (VLS-TS visiteur), comprehensive private health insurance is mandatory for the entire duration of your stay. Since you cannot access Sécurité Sociale (you're not working), private insurance is your only healthcare option.

For work visas and Passeport Talent, private insurance is required for the visa application and initial period. After arriving and validating your visa (via ANEF), you become eligible to register for Sécurité Sociale through CPAM—typically after 3 months of residence.

Regardless of visa type, insurance must be valid in France and provide adequate coverage. Travel insurance typically doesn't qualify.

Visitor Visa holders commit not to work in France. This means no employer coverage, and no access to Sécurité Sociale through employment. Private insurance isn't just for the visa application—it's your ongoing healthcare solution.

The income requirement (typically €1,500+/month from passive sources) suggests applicants can afford quality coverage. Consulates expect comprehensive protection: inpatient, outpatient, emergency, and often no co-pays on essential services.

This is the visa type where premium international coverage makes the most sense. Budget travel-style insurance is likely to be questioned or rejected.

For the visa application: Private insurance is required. The coverage needs to satisfy consulate requirements, similar to other visa types.

After arrival: You must validate your VLS-TS visa on the ANEF portal within 3 months (cost ~€200). After approximately 3 months of residence, you become eligible to register with CPAM (Caisse Primaire d'Assurance Maladie) for Sécurité Sociale coverage.

The transition period: Between arrival and Sécurité Sociale activation, private insurance is essential. The timeline can be unpredictable—CPAM processing varies—so maintain private coverage until you receive your carte vitale.

Passeport Talent: The 4-year permit follows similar patterns. Private insurance for the application, transition to Sécurité Sociale after establishment. The higher salary threshold (€39,000+ for qualified employees) means more flexibility in insurance choices.

Sécurité Sociale covers approximately 70% of healthcare costs, with most people adding a mutuelle (complementary insurance) to cover the remainder. Once you're in the system, healthcare in France is affordable and high-quality.

To register: after 3 months of legal residence, apply to CPAM online or at a local office. You'll need your validated visa, proof of address, and other documentation. Processing takes weeks to months depending on location.

Many expats maintain private international coverage as a supplement even after getting Sécurité Sociale. Private coverage provides faster access to specialists and private clinics, while the public system handles routine care.

Visitor Visa applicants: Premium international coverage is essential. You'll rely on private insurance for your entire stay—there's no transition to public healthcare. Cigna or Allianz are the safe choices.

Work visa and Passeport Talent: You need coverage for the application and transition period (3-6 months typically). Once Sécurité Sociale is active, you can drop or reduce private coverage. Mid-tier options may be sufficient for this temporary period.

Families: Coverage breadth, pediatric care, and maternity matter more than minimizing costs. Premium family plans are commonly used, especially for Visitor Visa families.

Short-term or uncertain stays: Flexible coverage like SafetyWing may work—but verify visa eligibility. If your visa requires comprehensive coverage, budget options may not qualify.