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Healthcare in France
France's public health system (Assurance Maladie) covers legal residents through the Protection Universelle Maladie (PUMa) after three months.
Healthcare offices in France
Assurance Maladie (CPAM): Health insurance (Carte Vitale). Phone: 3646.
How to get covered
Validate your long-stay visa (VLS-TS): Within 3 months of arrival, validate online — otherwise you become irregular. Pay the OFII tax online — Use the official site administration-etrangers-en-france.interieur.gouv.fr. Cost: 200 € (most categories). Wait for OFII summons — You'll be called for a medical visit + welcome interview. Bring passport, address proof, photo. Sign the CIR — Contrat d'Intégration Républicaine commits you to civic training (4 days) and French classes if your level is below A1. Get Carte Vitale & health cover: All residents (stable + regular for 3 months) have a right to health insurance via Assurance Maladie. Apply on ameli.fr — Create your account, upload passport, residence permit, RIB (bank details), birth certificate translated by a sworn translator. Receive your provisional number — Use it at doctors meanwhile. Carte Vitale arrives in 3–6 months. Complementary insurance — Public 'Complémentaire santé solidaire' is free or cheap for low incomes (apply on ameli.fr).
Emergency and urgent care
Emergency number: 112. Medical help: 15 (SAMU). Police: 17. Use emergency care for serious or life-threatening situations; for routine problems, start with a GP or local clinic.
Prescriptions, interpreters and costs
Ask for an interpreter when booking if you are not confident in French. Bring ID, residence documents and insurance proof. Public care is usually free or low-cost after registration; without registration, ask clinics or NGOs about community care.
Frequently asked questions
What number do I call for an ambulance in France?
Call 112. It works for urgent medical, fire and police emergencies.
Which office should I contact first in France?
Start with Assurance Maladie (CPAM). For broader newcomer help, also check OFII (Office Français de l'Immigration), Préfecture, OFPRA.
What language will offices use in France?
The main administrative language is French. Larger offices often offer English or interpreters, but bring translated documents when possible.
Do I need private insurance?
In most EU countries, once you are legally resident, public healthcare covers you. Private insurance is optional and used for faster access to specialists.
What does a doctor visit cost?
Usually free or a small copayment (5–25 EUR). Costs are much higher without a residence permit — use community clinics if that is your situation.