France, a nation of remarkable beauty, culture, cuisine, and history, welcomes millions of travelers every year—including a significant number of immigrants either entering the country for the first time or traveling within Europe. Whether you’re an immigrant planning your first arrival in France, traveling back and forth between Schengen countries, or hosting family members from abroad, travel insurance plays an essential role in ensuring you are protected from unexpected situations.
For immigrants, the importance of France travel insurance cannot be overstated. Many visa applications, including short-stay Schengen and long-stay visitor visas, require proof of travel insurance coverage. Travel insurance protects you financially against emergencies such as medical issues, accidents, lost baggage, or trip cancellations. France has a robust healthcare system, but access to affordable medical treatment may not be available to you immediately, especially if you’re still waiting for your Carte Vitale (health insurance card) or traveling temporarily.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything immigrants need to know about travel insurance in France—including how it works, why it’s required, how to choose a policy, what it covers, how to apply, and answers to frequently asked questions.
What Is Travel Insurance in France?
Travel insurance in France is a short-term or long-term insurance policy that provides financial coverage and support in case of travel-related emergencies. This includes:
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Emergency medical expenses
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Hospitalization
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Medical evacuation or repatriation
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Lost or delayed baggage
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Trip interruption or cancellation
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Travel delay or missed connections
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Personal liability abroad
It is particularly important for non-EU immigrants who do not yet have full access to the French healthcare system or are traveling within or outside the Schengen zone.
Why Travel Insurance Is Important for Immigrants in France
For immigrants living in France or moving to France, travel insurance is both a legal and practical necessity in many situations:
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Visa requirement: To obtain a Schengen or long-stay visa, travelers must provide proof of travel insurance with minimum coverage of €30,000, including emergency medical care and repatriation.
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Medical safety: France has excellent healthcare, but non-residents may have to pay full costs upfront without insurance.
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Family travel: Immigrants often have relatives visiting from abroad, and they must also be insured to enter the Schengen area.
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Multi-country mobility: Travel insurance offers protection when traveling across Europe before official residency is established.
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Peace of mind: Emergencies abroad can be costly and stressful—insurance ensures access to support and assistance 24/7.
Who Should Get Travel Insurance in France?
You should consider travel insurance in France if you are:
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Applying for a Schengen short-stay visa
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Moving to France on a long-stay or student visa
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Traveling back and forth to your home country
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Hosting family members from abroad
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Traveling to another EU or non-EU country for holidays or work
Many immigrants buy travel insurance before arrival, but it’s also possible to purchase coverage while living in France for trips outside the country.
SEE ALSO: France Home Insurance for Immigrants – Live in France
Key Features of France Travel Insurance
The following are commonly included in French travel insurance policies:
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Emergency medical treatment up to €30,000 or more
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Coverage for COVID-19 and other communicable illnesses
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Repatriation or evacuation assistance
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24/7 multilingual support
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Trip cancellation or interruption coverage
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Baggage delay, loss, or theft
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Accidental death and dismemberment benefits
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Travel delay expenses (hotels, meals, transport)
Some policies can be extended to include adventure sports, pre-existing conditions, or multi-trip annual plans for frequent travelers.
Where to Buy Travel Insurance in France
Travel insurance can be purchased:
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Online through international insurers such as Allianz Travel, AXA, Europe Assistance, IMG Global, or World Nomads
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From French insurance providers such as MAIF, April International, Groupama, or Assur-Travel
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Through banks or visa centers
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Via university packages for students
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Directly through airlines or travel booking platforms
When applying for a visa, the embassy may request an attestation d’assurance voyage (proof of travel insurance), which is typically issued immediately upon purchase.
Cost of Travel Insurance in France
The price of travel insurance in France depends on several factors:
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Age of the traveler
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Length of the trip or stay
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Type of coverage (basic vs. premium)
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Countries of travel (Schengen only or worldwide)
Estimated cost range:
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Short stay (7–15 days): €15–€45
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30-day visa insurance: €40–€70
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Annual multi-trip plan: €150–€300+
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Student coverage for 1 year: €250–€450
Premiums increase with more comprehensive coverage and higher risk levels (age, adventure activities, chronic illnesses).
How to Choose the Right Travel Insurance as an Immigrant
Here are some helpful tips to choose the best travel insurance plan:
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Ensure minimum €30,000 medical coverage for Schengen visa
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Check that COVID-19 coverage is included
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Choose policies with 24/7 support in your language
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Look for cashless treatment or reimbursement policies
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Read customer reviews and claims process
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Compare multiple providers for pricing and benefits
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Ask if pre-existing conditions are covered (if applicable)
What Travel Insurance Does Not Cover
While travel insurance is essential, be aware of common exclusions:
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Undeclared pre-existing medical conditions
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Intentional injuries or self-harm
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Travel to high-risk conflict zones
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Extreme sports (unless added)
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Cosmetic or elective treatments
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Travel against medical advice
Always read the policy terms and exclusions carefully before purchasing.
France travel insurance for immigrants is more than a visa requirement—it’s a smart investment in your personal safety, financial security, and peace of mind. Whether you’re arriving in France for the first time, traveling home temporarily, or exploring neighboring countries, a solid travel insurance policy can help you handle unexpected medical issues, trip disruptions, and more.
As an immigrant, ensuring your journeys to and from France are covered with reliable travel insurance ensures smoother transitions, fewer financial worries, and the ability to focus on the joys and challenges of building a new life abroad.
FAQs – France Travel Insurance for Immigrants
1. Is travel insurance mandatory for a France visa application?
Yes, all Schengen visa applicants must show proof of travel insurance with at least €30,000 in medical coverage, including repatriation and emergency hospital care.
2. Can I use travel insurance from my home country for a France visa?
Yes, as long as the insurance meets Schengen visa requirements and provides a valid attestation in English or French. Make sure it’s accepted by the French consulate or embassy.
3. Does French travel insurance cover COVID-19?
Most providers now offer COVID-19 coverage, including medical treatment, quarantine costs, and trip cancellation. Always confirm this with your insurer before buying.
4. Can immigrants in France buy travel insurance for visiting family members?
Absolutely. Many immigrants purchase visitor insurance policies for parents or relatives traveling from outside Europe to help meet visa requirements and protect their health during their visit.
