How do I obtain a social security number in France and what is it needed for?

The first step to accessing healthcare in France is obtaining a social security number and registering with the state health insurance body.

Integrating into the French healthcare system can feel complex and getting the right support can make all the difference. 

Here we look at some key points explaining how to get a social security number and what it is needed for.

How do I sign up for a social security number?

When moving to France, in some cases, your social security number is automatically organised for you through your work.

If you moved here as a retiree, for example, then you must apply for one yourself. 

You should register with the local state health insurance body Cpam (Caisse primaire d’assurance maladie), which in most cases will be your local state health insurance body dealing with your health reimbursements.

This is usually done after three months of settled residence. 

Once you have proof of residency, you can apply for your social security number by sending this form to your Cpam with any supporting documents listed on the second page. Note that a different process applies to people with an S1 form.

Registration is not essential for certain early-retirees who opt to rely on comprehensive private health cover.

Non-EU citizens moving over may need a private health insurance policy while their Cpam cover is processed - as it can take some time to receive your social security number.

Once having applied you will often be sent a temporary French social security number in the post, followed by a document called the attestation de droits, which proves you are in the system. 

Cigna Healthcare’s expat health insurance in France can help cover you until you can apply for public healthcare or before you become a resident. Cigna Healthcare has designed their health insurance to provide expats with the right support from day one: 

●  Access to over two million healthcare providers worldwide

●  Claims reimbursed in five working days after all necessary documentation is received

●  No premium increase after making a claim

Read more about Cigna Healthcare’s flexible international health insurance designed for expats 

What is a social security number used for?

With a temporary social security number, you can apply for reimbursements if you have out-of-pocket health expenses, but will need to do so by sending in paper forms to the Cpam.

Once you are sent your definitive number, you can create an account at the Ameli website (online portal for Assurance Maladie - the French state health insurance system) and order your carte Vitale - a green plastic credit-card-sized card used to simplify health reimbursements.

Anyone with a French social security number has a right to a carte Vitale and it is an essential item for people living in France.

Note that after you apply for your social security number, you may receive a letter prompting you to obtain a carte Vitale, but this can be ignored if you have already applied online.

French public healthcare may only cover a percentage of treatment fees and you may want to take out extra insurance to help cover remaining costs.

Read more about Cigna Healthcare’s flexible international health insurance designed for expats