Getting your French social security number
Who qualifies, what documents to prepare, how long it takes, and the difference between a temporary and a permanent number.
When you arrive in France, a social security number is essential for getting reimbursed for medical care. Without it, you cannot get the Carte Vitale (health insurance card) or be registered with the public health system. The good news: the process is open to everyone, and you can start getting reimbursements before you receive your permanent number.
Who is entitled to a social security number
Anyone who works or lives stably in France can get a social security number. In practice:
- You work in France: your employer will register you with Assurance Maladie (public health insurance). They start the process for you.
- You have lived in France for more than 3 months: you can apply directly to CPAM (the local health-insurance fund), even if you are not yet working.
- You are a student: you are automatically registered with Assurance Maladie as soon as you enroll in a higher-education institution.
Being legally present in France is the main requirement. A long-stay visa, a residence permit (titre de séjour) or a European Union passport is enough, depending on your situation.
Temporary and permanent numbers
CPAM first assigns a temporary number, then a permanent 13-digit number once your identity has been verified.
| Temporary number | Permanent number | |
|---|---|---|
| What it's for | Registering you and starting reimbursements | Your official ID throughout your life in France |
| When you receive it | A few weeks after submitting your file | After your civil status is verified - a longer wait |
| Carte Vitale | Not yet available | Yes, you can order it |
The temporary number is your starting point. Do not put off medical appointments while waiting for the permanent number.
Documents to prepare
Prepare these documents before you apply - the list of 15 documents to prepare before moving to France is a useful reference. An incomplete file slows down processing.
Required documents
- Valid ID or passport
- Residence permit or visa (depending on your situation)
- Birth certificate, often with a certified translation
- French bank details in your name
- Recent proof of address (rent receipt, utility bill, landlord statement)
Application steps
- 1
Gather your documents
Collect all the documents listed above. For your birth certificate, arrange a certified translation if your country does not issue documents in French.
- 2
Submit your file
Send your application to the CPAM in your department - by post or online through your Ameli (the public health-insurance website) account. If you are an employee, your employer can start the process for you.
- 3
Track your file on Ameli
Once your Ameli account is set up, you can check the progress of your file and see your first reimbursements as soon as the temporary number is active.
- 4
Receive your number, then your Carte Vitale
After the permanent number is issued, CPAM will send you a letter. You can then order the Carte Vitale at a pharmacy or directly through Ameli.
How long it takes
Processing time varies by CPAM and how complete your file is. As a general rule:
- The temporary number arrives within a few weeks.
- The permanent number can take several months, while your civil status is verified with the registries in your country of birth.
Don't let this delay hold you back. With the temporary number, you are already registered and reimbursed.
Get your social security numberXenaflow guides you through it: CPAM file, Ameli tracking and Carte Vitale.
View procedureOnce you have your social security number, check whether you are entitled to housing benefit (APL) - it is a simple process that can reduce your monthly costs.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a temporary and a permanent number?
The temporary number is assigned within a few weeks and lets you start getting reimbursements. The permanent number comes later, once your civil status has been verified, and lets you order the Carte Vitale.
Do I need a residence permit to apply?
Being legally present in France is the main requirement. A long-stay visa, a residence permit (titre de séjour) or a European Union passport is enough, depending on your situation.
How long does it take to receive my number?
The temporary number arrives within a few weeks of submitting your file. The permanent number can take several months, as your civil status must be verified with the registries in your country of birth.