France WHV: FAQs about French social security

Some of the most common questions from WHV holders in France are about French social security. But because the WHV is such a rare category in France, answers can vary depending on whom you ask.

As actual working holiday makers (in France and many other countries), we on the pvtistes.net team write from real life experience.

In this article, I’ll answer your top questions regarding the social security number.

1. What is the social security number?

In France, the social security number is used by the Caisse Primaire d’Assurance Maladie (CPAM) to grant beneficiaries access to healthcare. It’s also used by a number of public services, such as the Caisse d’allocations familiales (CAF), France Travail and more.

This number is made up of 13 digits. Each digit has a specific meaning:

• 1st digit: 1 for male and 2 for female
• Next 2 digits: year of birth
• Next 2 digits: month of birth
• Next 2 digits: department of birth in France; 99 for individuals born abroad
• Next 3 digits: INSEE code of country of birth (e.g., Canada is 401)
• Next 3 digits: individual identifier
• Next 2 digits: control key

2. Do I need one in order to start work?

No. Your Working Holiday Visa serves as complete proof of work authorization. For a more detailed explanation, read Key documents and procedures for starting a job in France (WHV holders).

However, things that you do need to provide to your employer include:

• A copy of your passport
• Your euro bank details for direct deposit (RIB, relevé d’identité bancaire)
• Your French address

3. Am I eligible for a social security number or its benefits?

No. With the exception of Canadians in year 2 holding an APS (explained later), WHV holders cannot apply for a social security number or access any social security benefits. This is because the nature of their visa is an extended but temporary holiday – the H in WHV.

There are anecdotes of past working holiday makers successfully applying for a social security number, but this is by no means a right or the norm. Those lucky individuals likely stumbled upon employees who were unfamiliar with the stipulations of France’s working holiday agreements, and therefore erroneously approved their application.

Technically, your employer could apply for a social security number on your behalf (read this guide), but even then you would still not qualify for the actual social security benefits.

4. Will social security contributions still be withheld in my salary?

Yes. A certain amount is withheld from the gross salary of all workers in France as contribution toward social security, even those who are not eligible for its benefits. This is normal and legal.

5. What if I need to see a doctor in France?

You don’t need a social security number or carte Vitale (health card) to see a doctor in France. Simply tell the physician or pharmacist that you don’t have a health card and that you will pay out of pocket. You can then use the invoice to submit a claim to your private travel insurance provider if it is a qualifying expense.

6. [Canadians only] Year 2 with an APS

Canadians are eligible to extend their stay in France for an additional 12 months. In the second year, you technically no longer hold a WHV but an APS, autorisation provisoire de séjour.

Due to the change in your status, it becomes possible (but not required or guaranteed) to apply for a social security number and subsequently access its associated benefits.

Make an appointment with your local CPAM office (dial 3646). You could also mail you application file to the office by post. In any case, you will need to provide copies of:

• The application form
• Your passport and visa
• Your APS
• Your birth certificate
• Proof of long-term residence in France (e.g. employment contract or pay slip)
• RIB from your bank
• Proof of residence in France (e.g., recent rent receipts, utility bills)
• Anything else that your CPAM might ask for

It can take several months to receive your number. You will receive a certificate attesting to your rights while you await the issuance and delivery of your carte Vitale. You will then be invited to create an account on ameli.fr.