French Social Security Budget 2026: Two Key Changes Affecting International Residents and Investors
The French Social Security Financing Act for 2026 (PLFSS 2026), adopted on 16 December 2025, introduces several measures that will have a direct impact on expatriates, international families, and foreign investors with ties to France.
Two developments in particular require close attention, as they affect both healthcare coverage and the taxation of investment income, and should already be factored into relocation and structuring strategies.
1. Access to French Healthcare (PUMa): New Contribution Requirement for Non-EEA Long-Stay Visitor Visa Holders
Until now, access to French universal healthcare (PUMa) for non-European nationals holding a long-stay “visitor” visa was largely based on administrative practice, often leading to uncertainty and inconsistent outcomes.
The PLFSS 2026 establishes a clearer legal framework by introducing a mandatory contribution as a condition for access to PUMa for this category of residents.
Practical implications
Non-EEA individuals residing in France under a long-stay visitor visa will be required to pay a specific annual healthcare contribution in order to access PUMa.
In the absence of payment, access to healthcare rights may be refused or suspended, which can also affect the issuance or renewal of social security entitlements.
This contribution becomes a structural element of the cost of relocation, particularly for individuals who are not economically active in France.
Main considerations
Healthcare coverage must be addressed upstream, as part of pre-move planning.
Proof of payment may become a required document for administrative and immigration procedures.
Close coordination between immigration, tax and social security planning is increasingly necessary.
2. Increase in Social Contributions on Investment Income
The PLFSS 2026 also provides for an increase in social contributions applicable to income from capital and investments, resulting in a higher overall social tax burden on certain categories of income.
Income potentially affected
Dividends
Interest
Capital gains on securities
Other forms of investment income subject to social contributions
The precise scope of the increase and any applicable exclusions will depend on forthcoming implementing regulations and must be analysed on a case-by-case basis.
Practical impact
A reduction in net after-tax investment returns for French residents.
The need to update 2026 tax projections, particularly for new French tax residents.
Potential reassessment of asset allocation and holding structures for internationally mobile families.
Conclusion
These changes reflect a broader trend toward increased social contributions for individuals maintaining a long-term presence in France, even where no professional activity is carried out locally.
For expatriates and international investors, anticipation and structuring are essential to avoid unexpected costs or administrative complications.
A coordinated approach combining tax, immigration and social security planning remains critical to securing a relocation or investment project in France.