If you are planning to settle in France as an expat, one of the most important things you have to do is registering for a Carte vitale. The Carte Vitale is a green smart card that is issued by the French Health Authority. It grants the cardholder access to the public health system. Furthermore, it helps make medical reimbursement easier for expats that are settling in France. The next chapters of this post will discuss more about this.
Things you should know about a Carte Vitale
When you hear the term “Carte Vitale,” for the first time, it sounds very complicated. However, this is far from the truth. Below are some basics that you should know about this French health insurance card if you are a traveller or an expat:
Definition of a Carte Vitale
In a nutshell, a Carte Vitale is a French insurance card for travellers and expats. It is the card that holds your French social security number and allows you to get direct reimbursement from the French health authority (CPAM) whenever you visit a healthcare provider or pharmacy. A cardholder can use it in pharmacies and plenty of clinics in France, eliminating the need to pay upfront for medical costs.
Who is eligible for a Carte Vitale?
The PUMa (Protection Universelle Maladie) framework determines the eligibility for a Carte Vitale. According to the framework, anyone that is residing legally in France, especially those with a long-stay visa or permit, qualifies for a Carte Vitale. Apart from this, below are other conditions that determine eligibility for a Carte Vitale:
- You need to prove three months of stable and regular residence. You can provide a rental agreement, utility bills, or a declaration from a host as your proof of regular residence.
- You can get the card if you can prove that you belong to an except category like an employee, student, or a certain family member.
When do you need to apply for a Carte Vitale?
If you meet the eligibility conditions set by PUMa, then you can apply for a Carte Vitale at any time. However, before you apply, you have to provide the necessary proof and documentation to show that you are eligible. It is only after your proof is verified that you will be able to apply for the Carte Vitale. However, if you are dependent on someone, working, or studying, then you can register immediately without waiting for verification of your eligibility.
The application process of a French health insurance
The application process is not too complicated. Follow the steps below:
Step 1: Get the required application documents
Firstly, you need to make sure you have all necessary documents for applying for a Carte Vitale. The required documents are:
- A EU national ID or valid passport
- For non-EU residents, a visa or residence permit is needed
- A completed form s1106
- Proof of address, like a utility bill, rental contract, or a hosted declaration
- A certified French translation of your full birth certificate
- If you are applying as a dependent, you need a marriage certificate or family booklet.
- A SEPA IBAN
The local CPAM may request additional documents. Therefore, you should check with them before you proceed with your application.
Step 2: Complete and mail the S1106 form
You will get the form from your local CPAM. Make sure you complete it and attach all the required documents, then mail it back to the local CPAM office.
Step 3: Receive a provisional social security number
If your application documents are accepted, you will receive a provisional social security number. It will allow you to start using public healthcare and submit reimbursement forms before your official Carte Vitale is awarded.
Step 4: Identity verification and card ordering
You will receive a request to send in your passport-style photo and a copy of your ID. They will be used to complete your healthcare card. Sending in these documents will serve as an order for the card.
Step 5: Get your Carte Vitale
Once you have successfully completed all the steps above, you will receive your card within around two weeks, depending on how busy the department is.
Conclusion
Having a Carte Vitale is important for your peace of mind. It also saves you money and gives you security in case of a medical issue. Therefore, registering for a Carte Vitale is critical. Before applying for anything, make sure you check with your local CPAM to avoid any mistakes and make the process as swift as possible.
