What it is and why it matters
French social security (Sécurité sociale) is the public system that reimburses your healthcare. As a student, affiliation to the general scheme is free, and once enrolled you get a social security number and access to Ameli, the online health-insurance portal.
Beyond healthcare, the number itself is a key that opens other doors — most notably, it's frequently required to complete your CAF housing-aid application. So this isn't just about seeing a doctor; it's a step the rest of your admin leans on.
Who needs to register
Most international students studying in France need to be affiliated to the French health system. The exact route can differ:
- Most non-EU students register with the general scheme on arrival.
- EU/EEA/Swiss students with a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) may rely on that for the period it covers, but often still register for longer stays.
When in doubt, register — it's free and gives you the number you'll need anyway.
What you need
- Proof of student enrolment (certificat de scolarité).
- Passport or ID, and (non-EU) your visa / residence document.
- Birth certificate, often with an official translation.
- A French RIB so reimbursements can be paid to you.
Registering, step by step
- Gather your documents — enrolment certificate, ID/visa, birth certificate (translated if required), and RIB.
- Register online through the official student registration service for the French health system.
- Upload your supporting documents as requested.
- Receive your provisional, then permanent social security number. This can take a few weeks — start early.
- Keep your number safe. You'll reuse it for CAF and other steps.
Setting up your Ameli account
Once you have a social security number, create your Ameli account on the official health-insurance portal. From there you can track reimbursements, download your attestation de droits (proof of cover), and manage your details. Getting an Ameli login is the practical sign your registration is complete.
Do the whole chain in order
studentsites.net maps your exact sequence — bank, social security, residence, CAF — with reminders so nothing blocks you. Join the early-access list.
Get early access →Frequently asked questions
Do I have to register for social security?
Most international students must affiliate to the French health system. It's free for students and gives you a social security number and Ameli access.
Is it really free?
Affiliation to the general student scheme is free. You register online and manage everything through Ameli once enrolled.
What is Ameli?
It's the online portal of French health insurance. With a social security number you create an Ameli account to track reimbursements and get proof of cover.
Why before CAF?
CAF often needs your social security number to finish your housing-aid application, so registering first avoids a stalled file.