How do I join the CFE?

Have you decided to join the CFE but aren't sure where to start? Alea, the local CFE reference partner for Hong Kong, China, Taiwan, and Singapore, guides you step-by-step through the process.

Who can join the Caisse des Français de l'Étranger?

Nationality does not matter when joining the CFE. Contrary to popular belief, holding French citizenship is not mandatory.

The following individuals are eligible to join the Caisse des Français de l’Étranger:

• French citizens residing abroad;

• Citizens of a European Economic Area (EEA) country or Switzerland, when living as expatriates outside of Europe;

• Other foreign nationals residing outside their home country who are employed by a company that has registered its staff with the CFE.

When to join the Caisse des Français de l’Étranger?

You can join the Caisse des Français de l'Étranger at any time, whether before your departure or even two years after settling abroad.

Since the February 2019 reform, the CFE can no longer charge retroactive contributions. You will only pay the standard premium based on your age bracket and family status.

Good to know: If you join the CFE before your departure or within three months of leaving, no waiting period will apply, regardless of your age.

A waiting period (délai de carence) is the time following your enrollment during which you cannot claim reimbursement for healthcare expenses.

If you enroll after the first three months, the waiting periods are as follows:

• Under 30 years old: 3 months

• Between 30 and 45 years old: 3 months

• Over 45 years old: 6 months

  
  

How to join the Caisse des Français de l'Étranger?

As the exclusive representative of the CFE in Asia, we simplify your enrollment process. You can apply directly through Alea to benefit from personalized support every step of the way.

To join the CFE, simply contact us at hello@alea.care!

Good to know: No medical questionnaire is required, and the CFE does not discriminate based on pre-existing conditions. You will be covered and pay the exact same rate regardless of your medical history.

Useful tip: Don't forget to submit the required supporting documents! Here is the list of documents requested by the Caisse des Français de l'Étranger upon enrollment:

• A copy of your passport or national identity card

• If you do not have a French Social Security number, an official birth certificate extract

• A copy of your family record book (livret de famille), marriage certificate, birth certificate, or civil partnership agreement (PACS) for your dependents, if their ID does not show the family relationship (dependents include your spouse and children)

• A front-and-back copy of your previous health insurance card (carte de mutuelle)

Did you know? Alea is the leading broker for the French community in Hong Kong. As the exclusive CFE representative for Hong Kong, Mainland China, Taiwan, and Singapore, Alea brings unique expertise across all CFE offerings and French insurers such as April, Henner, MSH, or Assur-Travel designed to top up CFE coverage. We work with over 25 international partners—including AXA, Bupa, and Cigna—to find the best insurance solution for you!