Cigna Global Health Insurance in France

Cigna Global in France

Cigna Global serves two key roles for expats in France: essential coverage during your initial months before PUMA enrollment, and ongoing international coverage for those who travel frequently or may not stay in France permanently.

France has excellent public healthcare (ranked #1 by WHO), but access requires 3+ months of residency. Cigna bridges this gap and provides worldwide coverage that the French system doesn't.

Pre-PUMA Visa Coverage

When applying for a French long-stay visa, you'll need private health insurance. PUMA (France's universal coverage) is not available until you've been a legal resident for at least 3 months.

Visa Application Requirements

• Comprehensive coverage: Inpatient and outpatient
• Valid in France: Coverage for the full visa duration
• No gaps: Coverage must start before arrival
• Adequate limits: French consulates expect substantial coverage

Cigna Global Gold and Platinum plans meet these requirements. Silver (inpatient only) may not be accepted — verify with your consulate.

After PUMA Enrollment

Once you have PUMA coverage (after 3+ months), you can:

• Option 1: Keep Cigna for worldwide coverage and top-tier private care
• Option 2: Switch to PUMA + mutuelle (cheaper for France-only coverage)
• Option 3: Keep Cigna short-term, switch when you're settled

Network Coverage in France

Cigna Global has a good network in France, including the American Hospital of Paris which caters to English-speaking patients.

Key Network Points

• Paris: American Hospital of Paris (bilingual staff, direct billing)
• Major cities: Network coverage in Lyon, Nice, Bordeaux, Toulouse
• Reimbursement: Any licensed French provider, submit for reimbursement

The American Hospital of Paris is particularly popular with expats due to English-speaking staff and familiarity with international insurance.

Plans and Pricing

Prices for worldwide coverage excluding USA. Age 40 shown as typical for France expats.

Which Plan for France?

• Silver: Inpatient only. May not meet visa requirements — verify.
• Gold: The practical choice. Meets visa requirements, covers outpatient care.
• Platinum: Maximum coverage. Good for those wanting top-tier care.

vs French Options

Keep Cigna Global If:

• You're in the pre-PUMA period
• You travel outside France frequently
• English-speaking support is essential
• You might relocate from France
• You want private hospital access without PUMA limitations

Switch to PUMA + Mutuelle If:

• You're staying in France long-term
• You don't travel outside the EU much
• You're comfortable with French healthcare in French
• Budget is a concern (PUMA + mutuelle is cheaper)

See all France insurance options →

Using Your Insurance in France

Direct Billing

At network hospitals like the American Hospital of Paris, present your Cigna card for cashless treatment.

Reimbursement

For non-network providers:

1. Pay the provider (get facture)
2. Submit via Cigna's app or portal
3. Typical processing: 5-7 business days
4. Reimbursement in euros to your account

Tiers Payant

France uses a "tiers payant" (third-party payment) system. With Cigna, direct billing achieves the same result. Without direct billing, you pay upfront and submit for reimbursement.

Who Should Choose Cigna in France

Common Questions

Do I need Cigna after I get PUMA?

Not necessarily. PUMA + mutuelle provides excellent coverage for France. But if you travel frequently, want English support, or might relocate, keeping Cigna makes sense.

Is Cigna accepted for French visa applications?

Yes, Cigna Global Gold and Platinum plans are typically accepted. Verify specific requirements with your French consulate, as requirements can vary.

How does Cigna compare to a French mutuelle?

Different purposes. A mutuelle tops up PUMA's 70% reimbursement for French care. Cigna provides standalone worldwide coverage. After PUMA enrollment, many expats switch to the cheaper mutuelle option unless they need international coverage.

Can I use Cigna at regular French doctors?

Yes. See any licensed French provider. Pay at time of service, then submit for reimbursement. For network hospitals with direct billing, it's cashless.