Every year, thousands of French people take off for new horizons. Whether you’re leaving for a career opportunity in Singapore, studies in Montreal or a new life in Lisbon, the excitement of departure is always intense.
But this euphoria often pushes administrative formalities into the background. And yet, all too often, there’s a blind spot: international health management.
Abroad, the healthcare system changes radically, and French social security doesn’t keep up with you. A simple appendicitis or a sprained ankle can quickly turn your dream into a financial nightmare. At Santexpat, we see expatriates facing bills of tens of thousands of euros every day for not having anticipated these risks.
1. The illusion of automatic protection: leaving without dedicated insurance
This is undoubtedly the most critical mistake. Many expatriates think they’re covered by safety nets that, in reality, cease to exist as soon as they cross the border.
French Social Security no longer reimburses you for treatment outside Europe (and offers only very partial coverage within the EU). As for bank cards (such as Visa Premier or Gold Mastercard), while they offer assistance, this is limited to 90 days and capped at derisory amounts compared with the real costs of private hospitals. Finally, travel insurance is designed for vacations, not to cover chronic illnesses or the day-to-day care required for life abroad.
Don’t gamble with your budget. Take out “1st euro” international health insurance from the very first day of your departure.
2. Thinking that the CFE is self-sufficient
The Caisse des Français de l’Étranger (CFE) is an invaluable tool for keeping a foothold in the French system and facilitating your return. However, it reimburses on the basis of French Social Security rates.
In countries like Switzerland or the United States, where a consultation can cost five times the French price, the out-of-pocket expenses become abysmal.
A concrete example: a consultation invoiced at €300 may be reimbursed only €70 by the CFE. Without supplementary insurance, the remaining €230 will come out of your pocket.
Use CFE as a base, but systematically supplement it with an international mutual to cover 100% of your actual expenses.
3. Ignoring the real cost of local care
One of the most common mistakes is to apply one’s French reading grid (where healthcare seems “free” or inexpensive) to the rest of the world. The disparities are staggering. Did you know that a day’s hospitalization in Canada can cost up to €3,000, and over €10,000 in the United States?
Even in popular destinations like Thailand, international hospitals charge very high “Western” prices.
| Country | Average cost per day of hospitalization |
| Thailand | 300 € à 800 € |
| Canada | 1 500 € à 3 000 € |
| Japan | 2 000 € à 4 000 € |
| United States | 5 000 € à 12 000 € |
Find out about the cost of private medicine in your destination country, and adjust your coverage limits accordingly.
4. Sacrificing quality for a low-cost contract
It’s human nature to want to save on your monthly premium, but it’s often a losing strategy. Low-cost health insurance contracts frequently conceal limits on annual ceilings, high deductibles or exclusions on outpatient care (town doctor).
In the event of an accident or serious pathology, the savings of €30 per month are paid for by a bill of several thousand euros not reimbursed.
Don’t look for the lowest price, look for the best warranty/price ratio. Balanced coverage is your best investment.
5. Underestimating the crucial importance of repatriation
We don’t like to think about it, but medical repatriation is the most expensive form of cover. If local medical facilities are insufficient to treat you, a medical flight from Asia or America can cost up to €120,000. Without a robust repatriation option, you (or your family) will have to pay the full cost.
Check that your contract includes full and unlimited repatriation assistance. It’s the guarantee that saves lives… and assets.
6. Forget to anticipate maternity and dental care
Specific treatments such as orthodontics, optics and, above all, maternity are often subject to waiting periods. This means that if you become pregnant just after taking out the policy, your delivery costs (which can reach €30,000 in the USA) may not be covered.
Anticipate your life projects at least a year in advance. Choose coverage that covers your future needs to avoid unpleasant surprises.
7. Wanting to choose your contract alone, without expertise
The international insurance market is complex. Between waiting periods, healthcare networks, deductibles and exclusions, it’s easy to get lost. Choosing your contract “blindly” on an online comparator without understanding the fine lines of the contract is a major risk.
Get help from a specialized broker. At Santexpat, we analyze your profile and guide you towards the most appropriate offer, at no extra cost to you.
Health, the cornerstone of your success abroad
A successful expatriation is not just about finding a home or a school. It’s about knowing that, whatever happens, you and your family will benefit from the best possible care. All without compromising your financial security or your future. Good preparation is based on a clear analysis of your needs and the local system. Don’t leave your health to chance.
