France offers one of the most comprehensive and affordable healthcare systems in the world. With a mix of public coverage and optional private health insurance, residents and expats alike enjoy access to high-quality medical services.
Whether you’re living in France permanently or just moved as a student, worker, or retiree, choosing the right health insurance plan is essential for peace of mind and legal compliance.
1. Assurance Maladie – Standard Public Health Coverage
France’s public health insurance, known as Assurance Maladie, covers most basic medical needs. It reimburses around 70% of doctor visits and up to 80% of hospital stays. Everyone working in France is automatically enrolled in this system.
Pros: Affordable, covers most essential services
Note: You’ll still need a top-up insurance (mutuelle) to cover what’s not reimbursed.
2. Harmonie Mutuelle – Best Public Supplement Plan (Mutuelle)
Harmonie Mutuelle is one of the most trusted mutuelle (top-up insurance) providers in France. It helps cover the remaining costs not paid by the public system, like co-payments, dental, and vision.
Ideal for: Employees, retirees, and families
Extras: Preventive care, wellness programs, maternity support
3. MGEN – Best for Public Sector Workers
If you’re a teacher, researcher, or public service employee, MGEN offers tailored health insurance plans. It combines strong top-up coverage with public insurance benefits, including mental health and rehabilitation.
Pros: Great for civil servants and education professionals
Bonus: Offers optional private plans as well
4. Allianz France – Best Private Health Insurance for Expats
For non-EU nationals, freelancers, or high-income expats, Allianz France provides flexible and private health coverage with English support and a wide hospital network.
Pros: Custom coverage, fast reimbursements, English-speaking services
Ideal for: Self-employed, digital nomads, long-term expats
5. April International – Best for International Students and Expats
April International is a favorite among international students, young professionals, and temporary residents. Their plans cover both public and private health services, with English-speaking customer support.
Key Features: Quick sign-up, worldwide coverage options, affordable plans
Extras: Dental, optical, and travel health cover
Public vs Private Health Insurance in France
| Feature | Public + Mutuelle | Private (Optional) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Low, income-based | Varies by age & plan |
| Coverage | Basic + top-up | Fully customizable |
| Dependents | Covered under main plan | Separate coverage needed |
| Who Needs It | Most residents | Expats, freelancers, students |
Conclusion
The best health insurance plan in France depends on your legal status, income level, and personal health needs. Most residents benefit from the public system and a mutuelle like Harmonie Mutuelle or MGEN. But if you’re a freelancer or an expat looking for more flexibility, Allianz France or April International offer strong private plans.
Before choosing, compare plan benefits, reimbursement rates, and whether English-speaking support is available — especially if you’re new to the French system.