It’s clear that Brexit has taken a toll and has made the entire application process more complicated. It has had an impact on citizens from all countries; for example, the application rules have even been tightened for US citizens.

But we have a solution! And it is even a ‘French administration-proof’ solution! After years of experience as insurance brokers and hundreds of Visa applications, we’ve come to the conclusion that the layout of the insurance certificate is the critical factor that will determine the fate of your application.

Successful applications always have the following elements in common for the medical insurance:

• The certificate shows cover for at least the duration of your VISA, and if this is not possible, or if it ends before the VISA, then the certificate should mention that the insurance policy is scheduled for automatic renewal.
• It mentions that you’re covered for in and out patient benefits (not just hospitalisation).
• The medical cover should be at least 30.000€ (although it’s safer to have at least 100.000€+ as some centres are more picky than others).
• The certificate should not mention any medical exclusions.
• It includes a repatriation plan.

If you fulfil these five requirements and the rest of your file is complete, you will be off to a flying start with your visa application. With your visa in the bag, you will be able to enjoy all that France has to offer, whether that is just for a couple of years or longer term.

One final pro tip!

You need to obtain your insurance documents BEFORE the interview at the visa centre. They’ll expect to see both the certificate of insurance AND the proof of payment. This shows that your policy has been issued and, thus, can’t be cancelled, meaning you’ll be covered from the moment you arrive in France.