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Health insurance in Australia: a guide for French expatriates

Moving to Australia as a French expatriate is a great adventure, but it also requires managing several important steps. Among these, taking out appropriate health insurance is essential. The Australian health care system, though efficient, operates differently from the one you know in France. So take the time to explore the different options available to ensure your peace of mind and the best possible medical cover.

The Australian healthcare system: Medicare

The Australian healthcare system is financed by the income tax paid by its taxpayers. Access to healthcare is guaranteed via the Medicare scheme. This system is available to Australian and New Zealand citizens. It also covers foreign permanent residents and certain temporary residents. Citizens of countries with reciprocal agreements are also eligible.

However, as France does not have a reciprocal agreement with Australia, French expatriates are not eligible for Medicare. It is therefore advisable to take out private health insurance to cover medical expenses on site.

Health insurance options for French expatriates

There are several options available to French expatriates when it comes to health insurance in Australia.

1. Caisse des Français de l’Étranger (CFE): The CFE enables French nationals to continue to benefit from coverage equivalent to that provided by the French Social Security system. However, reimbursements are based on French rates, which are often lower than the actual cost of care in Australia. It is therefore advisable to take out additional international health insurance to cover the difference.
2. International health insurance: On Santexpat.fr you can compare all the international health insurance offers available on the market. These mutual insurance plans for expatriates offer comprehensive coverage tailored to the specific needs of expatriates. They cover routine medical expenses and hospitalization. As an option, depending on your needs, your contract will also cover dental and optical care, as well as options such as medical repatriation.
3. Local health insurance: You can also take out local health insurance with an Australian organization. However, these may not offer the same level of coverage as international health insurance. They may have limitations in terms of coverage and reimbursements.

What are the criteria for choosing a health insurance plan?

To choose the health insurance best suited to your situation, it’s important to take your circumstances and budget into account.

• Scope of cover: Make sure the insurance covers all the care you may need. For example, routine care, hospitalization, dental and optical care, as well as any maternity.
• Reimbursement ceilings: Check the maximum reimbursement amounts for each type of care to avoid unpleasant surprises in the event of major medical expenses.
• Waiting periods: Some contracts impose waiting periods before certain benefits become effective. You need to be aware of these waiting periods to plan your treatment needs.
• Additional options: Depending on your needs, options such as medical repatriation, third-party liability abroad or legal assistance can be a bonus.

Cost of health insurance for expatriates in Australia

The cost of health insurance for expatriates varies according to several factors, such as age, family situation, the level of cover chosen and additional options. Rates can vary from €60 to €275 per month for a single person, €150 to €700 for a couple, and €150 to €700 for a family.

It’s a good idea to compare the different offers on the market to find the one that best suits your needs and budget. Specialized online comparators simplify this process, such as Santexpat.fr. They offer personalized quotes tailored to your profile and needs.

Health insurance Australia

Subscribing to an appropriate health insurance plan is an important step for any French expatriate in Australia. Given the specificities of the Australian healthcare system and the ineligibility of French nationals for Medicare, it’s important to choose coverage that provides optimum protection in all circumstances. An in-depth analysis of the options available, taking into account your personal needs and situation, will enable you to enjoy your expatriation with complete peace of mind.