Written by
John Spencer
John Spencer is the founder of Compare Expat Plans, where he focuses on helping people compare health plans for life abroad. He emphasizes clear information, neutral analysis, and practical decision support.
IMG Global in France
IMG Global offers a budget-friendly path to international health insurance for expats in France. Their high-deductible options and 50% deductible waiver make them one of the most affordable international options for the pre-PUMA period.
The strategy: use IMG for visa compliance and initial coverage, then transition to PUMA + mutuelle when eligible (3+ months).
$8M
Max annual limit
50%
Deductible waiver outside US
$500K
Medical evacuation
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See what IMG Global costs for expats living in France.
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Pre-PUMA Visa Coverage
IMG Global can be used for French visa applications, though it's less commonly used than Cigna or Allianz. Verify acceptance with your specific consulate.
Visa Requirements
- Comprehensive inpatient and outpatient coverage
- Valid for the full visa duration
- Adequate coverage limits (IMG offers up to $8M)
Verify First
IMG is less commonly used for French visas. Confirm acceptance with your consulate before purchasing. For visa certainty, consider Cigna or Allianz which are more established for French applications.
Network Coverage in France
IMG uses primarily a reimbursement model in France. Pay providers directly, then submit claims.
How It Works
- Any licensed provider: See any French doctor or hospital
- Pay and submit: Reimbursement typically in 5-10 days
- Freedom: No network restrictions
Plans and Pricing
| Plan | Coverage | France (Age 40) | Effective Deductible |
|---|---|---|---|
| Global Medical Insurance | Inpatient + Outpatient | €110-150/mo | 50% waiver |
| With €2,500 Deductible | Inpatient + Outpatient | €80-110/mo | €1,250 effective |
| With €5,000 Deductible | Inpatient + Outpatient | €65-90/mo | €2,500 effective |
| With €10,000 Deductible | Inpatient + Outpatient | €55-75/mo | €5,000 effective |
Prices for worldwide coverage excluding USA. Age 40 shown.
The 50% Deductible Waiver
IMG's standout feature: treatment outside the US gets 50% off your deductible. In France:
- €5,000 deductible → €2,500 effective in France
- €2,500 deductible → €1,250 effective in France
Calculate Your Savings
See how much you can save with IMG's high-deductible options.
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vs French Options
| Factor | IMG Global | French System |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost (Age 40) | €110-150 | €50-150 (mutuelle) |
| With High Deductible | €55-90 | N/A |
| Deductible Waiver | 50% outside US | No |
| Pre-PUMA Coverage | Full coverage | Not available |
| Annual Maximum | Up to $8M | Unlimited (PUMA) |
| Medical Evacuation | Up to $500K | Not included |
| Portability | Worldwide | France only |
Use IMG Global If:
- Budget is a major consideration
- High-deductible strategy appeals to you
- You're comfortable with reimbursement
- You travel outside France frequently
- Medical evacuation is important
Switch to PUMA + Mutuelle If:
- You're eligible (3+ months residency)
- You want French system integration
- Budget is a concern
See all France insurance options →
Using Your Insurance in France
Reimbursement Process
- See any licensed provider
- Pay at time of service (get facture)
- Submit via IMG app or portal
- Processing: 5-10 business days
- Reimbursement in euros
Who Should Choose IMG in France
Good Fit
- Budget-conscious expats
- Healthy individuals
- Those comfortable with reimbursement
- Expats who travel frequently
- Short-term pre-PUMA coverage needs
Consider Alternatives
- Those wanting guaranteed visa acceptance
- Expats with pre-existing conditions
- Those needing mental health coverage
- Long-term France residents
Common Questions
Is IMG accepted for French visas?
IMG can be used, but it's less established than Cigna or Allianz for French visas. Verify with your consulate.
How does the 50% deductible waiver work?
Treatment outside the US automatically gets 50% off your deductible. A €5,000 deductible becomes €2,500 in France.
Should I switch to PUMA after 3 months?
For most expats, yes. PUMA + mutuelle is typically cheaper and well-integrated with French healthcare. Keep IMG only if you travel frequently or might relocate.
Ready for Budget-Friendly Coverage?
Get a personalized IMG Global quote for France.
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Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Visa requirements and PUMA rules change. Verify all information with IMG Global and French authorities.
