Health cover for temporary visitors in France (2026)
Last reviewed: 9 October 2026
In short: The EHIC covers care from affiliated (conventionné) practitioners, public hospitals and affiliated private clinics, with part of the cost reimbursed. It does not cover non-affiliated private care, repatriation or planned treatment.
| Rule | What applies |
|---|---|
| Health cards acceptedUnplanned care during a temporary visit | EHIC, GHIC [1] |
| What the card coversUnplanned care during a temporary visit | Care from 'conventionné' doctors and dentists, public hospitals and affiliated private clinics at French social security rates. The patient pays the practitioner and claims reimbursement of part of the cost. [1] |
| Private care coveredUnplanned care during a temporary visit | No [1] |
| Repatriation coveredUnplanned care during a temporary visit | No [2] |
| Planned treatment coveredUnplanned care during a temporary visit | No [2] |
| Body to contactUnplanned care during a temporary visit | The local health insurance office (CPAM, Assurance Maladie); CLEISS for information on international social security. [1] |
Notes
- The Commission country page names the EHIC. GHIC acceptance in EU countries is stated on the GOV.UK collection page for UK-issued cards.
- Treatment at a non-affiliated private clinic is paid in full, with reimbursement claimed later.
- The EU pages state this for the EHIC in general: the card does not cover rescue or repatriation.
Sources
- European Commission (Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion): France - European Health Insurance Card (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
- European Union (Your Europe): Health cover for temporary stays (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
Related pages
General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.