Mutuelle (Complementary Insurance) Costs in France

In France, the Assurance Maladie typically reimburses 70% of the official tariff for doctor visits and 80% for hospital costs, with the remaining portion (ticket modérateur) paid by the patient. To cover this gap, approximately 96% of the French population subscribes to a complementary health insurance plan known as a mutuelle. Since 2016, all employers are required to provide mutuelle coverage to their employees.

Individual mutuelle premiums average €30–€100 per month, varying based on age, coverage level, and geographic location. Basic plans cover the ticket modérateur and some dental and optical care, while comprehensive plans include coverage for dépassements d'honoraires, orthodontics, hearing aids, and alternative medicine. Family coverage typically costs €80–€250 per month.

For low-income individuals, the Complémentaire Santé Solidaire (CSS, formerly CMU-C) provides free or reduced-cost complementary coverage. Those earning below approximately €9,700 per year (single person) receive fully free CSS coverage, while those earning up to €13,100 pay a reduced premium. The CSS covers essentially all remaining costs after Assurance Maladie reimbursement.