Moving to France from the U.S.? Here’s How to Get the Right Health Insurance

As more Americans choose to leave behind high medical costs, political tension, and daily stress in the U.S., France has become a top destination for a better quality of life. But one of the first and most important steps in making that move is figuring out your healthcare coverage.

If you’re planning to settle in France, you’ll need private health insurance that does more than just check the visa box. The public system may eventually be available to you, but getting the Carte Vitale can take a long time, and in the meantime, out-of-pocket costs in France can still add up fast.

That’s why Mondassur’s 3-in-1 international health insurance for France is the smart choice for Americans starting a new life in France. It’s a single, flexible plan that covers all your healthcare needs, from your flight over to long after you’ve settled in. The 3-in-1 advantages of Mondassur insurance include:

• Travel coverage: Medical emergencies, repatriation, and accidents during your journey to France.
• Visa-compliant coverage: Meets all French legal requirements for your long-stay visa.
• Bridge coverage: Protects you during the waiting period before you receive your Carte Vitale.

What Does Healthcare Actually Cost in France?

While healthcare in France is far more affordable than in the U.S., it’s not entirely free especially if you’re not yet part of the public system. Without a Carte Vitale or private insurance, you’ll be expected to pay medical fees upfront. Here’s what you might expect to pay out of pocket:

• €25–€30 for a general practitioner (family doctor) visit
• €50–€80 for a specialist consultation (e.g., dermatologist, gynecologist)
• 60€ to 120€ for an urgent care visit
• €150–€300 for common diagnostic tests like X-rays or ultrasounds
• €500+ per night in a private hospital room
• €70–€150 for emergency room visits
• €400–€1,000+ for dental work such as crowns or root canals
• €200–€400 for a new pair of prescription glasses

Even once you’re part of the public healthcare system, with a Carte Vitale in hand, reimbursements typically cover only around 70% of standard medical costs—and often significantly less for dental and vision care. This is why both locals and expats turn to additional private coverage. Understanding mutuelles and top-ups for expats is key to avoiding these out-of-pocket expenses, and starting with private insurance from day one can protect you from financial surprises.

Why You Need International Health Insurance When Moving to France

Before you’re integrated into the French healthcare system, private international insurance is essential. Without a Carte Vitale, you’ll be responsible for covering 100% of your medical expenses up front, even for routine care. That’s where an experienced international provider like Mondassur comes in.

Mondassur specializes in health insurance for expats and offers plans that provide:

• Full first-euro coverage (no reliance on French public reimbursement)
• English-speaking customer support
• Fast claims and no upfront fees at many providers
• Assistance navigating French healthcare and administration
• A large network of doctors and clinics across France and internationally

Whether you’re dealing with everyday health needs or unexpected emergencies, this kind of plan gives you the protection and peace of mind you need during your first months—or years—in France. You can get a free quote for your health insurance here.

Switching to Complementary Insurance Once You Have the Carte Vitale

Getting access to Sécurité Sociale and receiving your Carte Vitale is a big step. But even then, the French system rarely reimburses 100% of your healthcare costs. That’s why most residents, locals and expats alike, carry complementary private insurance, known in France as a mutuelle.

Once you’re eligible for public coverage, Mondassur can adapt your plan, switching from full international coverage to a complementary policy that works with the French system. This ensures you’re only paying for what you truly need, while still being protected from:

• Hospital co-pays
• Specialist fees above government-set rates
• Dental and optical expenses, often poorly reimbursed by the state

This transition is seamless and ensures that your coverage evolves as your situation in France changes whether you’re a retiree, freelancer, or full-time resident.