The carte Vitale is an essential part of healthcare in France. It facilitates the reimbursement of medical expenses and the transmission of necessary information to the health insurance company (Assurance Maladie).
Your carte Vitale can only be ordered once your social security number has been confirmed. Here are two methods to do so:
Method 1 (the fastest): By mail
You will receive the form below, necessary for ordering your carte Vitale by mail. Follow the steps mentioned on this document.

Step 1: Check your personal information
Step 2: Add a color ID photo in the indicated space
Step 3: Sign the form with a BLACK pen
Step 4: Add a copy of your passport to this mail
Step 5: Send the mail to CPAM
Once the form is completed, you must send in the provided envelope:
- the completed form;
- a copy of your ID;
Warning: the envelope is not stamped. It will be necessary to add a stamp to ensure that the mail reaches its destination.
Method 2 (only if you already have a carte Vitale or if method 1 was unsuccessful): From your Ameli account
The second option is to complete the process directly from your Ameli account.
Don't have an Ameli account yet?
Ask someone who speaks French to call 3646 with you. During this call, you will need:
- your social security number;
- your French bank account details (RIB);
- your residential address;
- your phone number.
During this call, you will request a temporary code to create your Ameli account.
Then, they will send you a temporary password via message. From there, follow the steps below:
Step 1: log in to your Ameli account

Step 2: go to "Mes démarches"
Select "Vos cartes" then "Commander ma Carte Vitale"

Step 4: check your information

Before proceeding, take the time to check:
- your personal information;
- your address.
If all information is correct, click on "continuer".
Step 5: add your photo

You will then need to add an ID photo, then continue the procedure by clicking on "continuer".
Step 6: validate your request

Check the box to confirm that the information provided is accurate.
Then, click on "valider"
Your request is finalized!
How long does it take to receive your carte Vitale?
Once the order has been placed, it takes approximately 15 to 30 days, regardless of the method used to place the order.
Your carte Vitale will be sent to your home address.
