Learn about Ameli, the French Online Health Service

Ameli is an online platform for the Assurance Maladie, France’s health insurance system. The name Ameli is an acronym for ‘assurance maladie en ligne’, meaning ‘health insurance online’. This Digital service makes it easier for users to update their accounts and speed up the application process. You can now easily submit supporting documents in just a few clicks, as they are linked to the carte vitale.

What is Ameli in France?

Assurance Maladie aims to provide easy access to healthcare services and systems in France. They have a comprehensive website, Ameli, accessible from any device with an internet connection. The website lets you manage all your health insurance needs, from checking your reimbursements to updating your personal information.

Creating an Ameli Account

To create an Ameli account, you must be registered with Assurance Maladie (or CPAM) and have a permanent Social Security number.  

You can only create your Ameli account with a permanent Social Security number, using the first 13 digits. If your Social Security number starts by 7 (male) or 8 (female) this means that you have a temporary Social Security number.

Staying Up to Date 

It is essential to provide Ameli with a current email address to receive automatic notifications and keep it up to date. In case the email address linked to the account is no longer valid, you can call 36 46 (free + cost of a local call) for assistance from a health insurance adviser who will guide you through the process.

Try the Ameli Santé App.

The Ameli Account application is available on all smartphones and tablets and offers useful services free of charge. You can easily log in to your account using your Social Security number and personal code, or via biometric authentication.

By using your Ameli account on the app or online, you can enjoy various benefits, such as tracking payments to your doctor or pharmacist and reporting the loss of your Carte Vitale. With the app, you can:

• order your Carte Vitale
• report the loss or theft of a Carte Vitale
• change and update your bank or postal details
• track your payments 24/7, anywhere and anytime
• apply for or renew your complementary health insurance
• apply for a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) (link)
• register the birth of a child

The Ameli app is available on Apple’s App Store and Google Play.

Attestation de Droits

You will want to check that you can download your ‘Attestation de droits’, an essential document along with your Carte Vitale that confirms your rights. Otherwise, you may need to drive to your local CPAM to request one; it’s never easy and is not worth your time if you can help it.

Healthcare Tips for Expats in France

Ameli is the online service for Assurance Maladie, with which you need to be registered before you can open an account. If you’re at the planning stage or have just arrived in France, you’ll first want to join the French Healthcare System (CPAM) and learn how to register with Ameli.

Additional French Health Insurance & Top-up

It is worth noting that more than 95% of French people have a complementary health insurance called ‘mutuelle santé’ or ‘mutuelle’. This insurance complements the reimbursements provided by the public healthcare system, Assurance Maladie/CPAM.

The ‘mutuelle’ typically covers 100% of the expenses for most medical conditions, orthodontic treatments, optician appointments, glasses, and taxi journeys. This is particularly important because the public healthcare system does not cover most optical and dental costs. Similarly, for hospital stays, Assurance Maladie only covers up to a certain amount, whereas most top-up schemes cover the remaining costs and the forfait hospitalier.

Personalised Health Plans

To learn about our various coverage options and costs, simply fill out our online form. Our insurance experts in France will provide you with a personalised and detailed quote in English, typically on the same day.