All you need to know about
health insurance in Europe

Health insurance for French expatriates in Europe

Moving to Europe as an expatriate entails a number of formalities, particularly in terms of social protection. It’s essential to find out how health insurance works in your host country. For complete protection, consider whether you need a complementary health insurance plan.

Health care in the European Economic Area (EEA)

If you’re moving to Switzerland or a country in the European Economic Area (EEA), your affiliation to the French Social Security system ends. You will then have to register with the health scheme in your host country, which means paying local contributions and receiving care in accordance with local rules. To make settling in easier, remember to ask your CPAM for an E104 form before you leave. This document proves your insurance history in France and simplifies the opening of your rights in your new healthcare system.

Caisse des Français de l’Étranger (CFE)

If you wish to maintain a link with the French healthcare system while living abroad, the Caisse des Français de l’Étranger (CFE) may be a good option. This organization enables you to continue to benefit from social protection similar to that in France, while maintaining your pension rights without losing any quarters. What’s more, you won’t have to worry about waiting periods when you return to France. Bear in mind, however, that CFE membership does not exempt you from compulsory contributions to your host country’s health scheme.

Why take out a health insurance policy for expatriates?

Social security systems in Europe don’t all work in the same way, and coverage of healthcare costs can vary from country to country. In some destinations, reimbursements are more limited than in France, particularly for optical and dental care, or certain specific medical procedures. To avoid unpleasant surprises and benefit from optimum coverage, it may be wise to take out a health insurance policy specially designed for expatriates. This complements the reimbursements provided by the local health insurance scheme and the CFE, giving you better day-to-day protection.

Mutual Insurance Options for Expatriates

There are several types of mutual insurance available to expatriates:

• First-euro insurance: some contracts cover your healthcare costs from the first euro spent, without going through the CFE. They offer simplified management with a single point of contact, but can be more expensive.
• CFE supplementary insurance: mutual insurances supplement CFE reimbursements.They can be more economical and enable you to maintain a link with the French healthcare system.Partnerships exist between the CFE and private insurers to offer package deals, including Social Security, supplementary health and other cover.

How to choose your expatriate health insurance?

Choosing your expatriate health insurance depends on a number of important factors. First, your personal situation: your age, state of health and family situation may influence the type of coverage you need. Secondly, the country you’re moving to plays a key role: the cost of medical care, the quality of the healthcare system and local insurance requirements all need to be taken into account. Finally, your budget is a decisive factor: the amount of contributions and the level of coverage you require must match your expectations and your means.

To make the right choice, it’s essential to compare the different offers available. Take a close look at the cover offered, any exclusions and additional services such as repatriation assistance or third-party liability. Specialized online comparators, such as Santexpat.fr, can help you find the solution best suited to your situation.

My expatriate health insurance for Europe

Moving to Europe requires careful preparation, particularly when it comes to social protection. To make the most of your new life, it’s essential to understand your host country’s healthcare system, to check whether joining the CFE could be an interesting option, and to choose a mutual insurance plan suited to your needs. These steps will ensure that you are well covered, and that your expatriation is a worry-free experience.