What is ‘bridging insurance’ for non-French vehicles?

Reader Question: A couple of weeks ago you mentioned ‘bridging insurance’ in an article. I have never heard of this but as someone planning to move permanently to France it seems important. What is it? 

In a recent article on non-French licence holders obtaining vehicle insurance in France, we mentioned the possibility of ‘bridging insurance’ for some vehicles. 

Assurance frontière (sometimes also translated as border insurance) is a short-term policy that covers non-EU vehicles arriving in France before they are registered in the country and obtain insurance from a French insurer.

It provides at a minimum third-party liability insurance (though more expensive policies are offered), which is required for all vehicles driving in France.

The policy is designed for vehicles being relocated permanently to France and not for those temporarily in the country.

Vehicles entering for up to 90 days on a short-term basis do not need the insurance, provided they are covered by international travel policies through their domestic insurer.

Policies range from 30-90 days, and can be renewed once, offering up to 180 days insurance. 

If repurchased, it can only cover the vehicle for the same number of days as the initial policy (for example if your first policy was for 60 days, your second cannot be for 90).

Bridging insurance can be purchased from most major insurers in France, as well as from certain customs offices.

However, having bridging insurance does not change the requirement to register a vehicle in France within one month following a move.

Do vehicles from the UK need this?

Vehicles that are insured by a UK insurer benefit from ‘Green Card’ cover, which means they do not need bridging insurance and should be covered during this initial period for third-party liability through their UK policy. 

Non-European countries such as the US, Canada and Australia do not participate in this.

While it is not essential to carry a physical Green Card to show authorities you have valid insurance, it can be easier to carry one on you to avoid confusion, although a digital version can also be downloaded.

If you prefer a physical version, you can obtain one for free through your insurer by requesting one a few weeks before travelling. 

Coverage via a Green Card is not intended to be permanent, and only covers a vehicle for up to six months after they first enter a country. 

It is not intended to be used when relocating permanently, and you will need to eventually obtain a French-based policy.