Healthcare
Getting into the French health system (PUMA)
Most new residents wait three months before applying for state health cover.
Reviewed 10 September 2026 · Official source checked 28 October 2026
The three-month wait
Under PUMA (protection universelle maladie), anyone living in France in a stable and regular way can join the state health system. In practice you show 3 months of continuous residence before applying. Students and employees often join sooner through their school or employer.
What to prepare
- Passport, visa or permit
- Birth certificate (often with sworn translation)
- Proof of address
- Bank details (RIB)
In the meantime
Carry private travel or expat health insurance for the gap. Keep every receipt - some costs can be reimbursed retroactively once your rights are open.
After registration
You receive a temporary social security number, then a carte Vitale. Consider a mutuelle for the portion the state does not reimburse.
2026 note
The 2026 social security budget law introduces a financial contribution for some PUMA beneficiaries who have no earned income. Check the current amount on ameli.fr before you budget for it.