Why are authorities asking about our address to join French social security?

Reader Question: I am applying to be affiliated to French social security but am having difficulties. I called my local Cpam and they were confused about me having submitted proof of address for two locations (a short-term rental when I arrived and now the current place I am renting). Why does it matter, if I am here legally? 

To obtain a social security number in France you must fulfil several requirements.

You are correct that you must be living in France ‘legally’, however there are several additional pre-requisites that apply. 

Among these is the ability to prove you have been living in France for three consecutive months.

The form you sent to your local Cpam (caisse primaire d'assurance maladie) when applying for your social security number lists the acceptable proofs (pièces justificatives) for this. 

These include the usual utility bills or rental contracts in your name covering at least three months. When renting, you can also supply quittances de loyer (receipt slips showing rent paid).

In cases where you are staying in other accommodation, alternative justification includes:

• A hotel bill (facture d'hôtellerie) covering at least three months 

• A statement from another approved organisation hosting you covering at least three months; if staying with a private individual, a sworn statement they have been hosting you, alongside at least three months’ worth of proof of address in their name

Short-term temporary rentals such as an Airbnb are not always accepted as proof of living in France by authorities as they are primarily aimed at tourists and there is often no formal rental contract or quittances. 

There is an exception where you specifically have a so-called bail mobilité contract in place (which is unusual). 

In your case, it is likely that while your proof of address from your long-term rental and the Airbnb cumulatively added up to over three months, the latter was not accepted as justification. 

It is also possible that if there was an overlap between the two rentals, they were unclear as to when you started living at your current address. 

Your local Cpam should be able to help you with the necessary steps, but you may need to wait until you have been living in your current address for three months – and have clear proof of this – to then resubmit your application. 

You can read our explainer article on how to obtain a social security number here, as well as how to then get a carte Vitale healthcard.