For European doctors and dentists wishing to practice in France in 2026, understanding the role of the various French authorities is essential. Among the DREETS, the ARS, and the Professional Orders, each organization plays a role at a specific point in the administrative process. Here is a clear guide to navigate these procedures without stress.
1. DREETS: The First Step to Obtain Authorization to Practice
The DREETS (Regional Directorate for the Economy, Employment, Labor, and Solidarity) is the French body that analyzes and validates requests for authorization to practice for professionals with degrees from the European Union.
It is responsible for:
- ✔ verifying the authenticity of the diplomas,
- ✔ analyzing training and experience,
- ✔ issuing the authorization to practice for European doctors and dentists.
Official website: https://dreets.gouv.fr
Without DREETS validation, it is impossible to practice in France, even with a European diploma in accordance with the Directive 2005/36/EC.
2. ARS: The Regional Authority Overseeing Daily Practice
The ARS (Regional Health Agencies) oversee the functioning of the health system at the regional level. Once in position, doctors and dentists are often in contact with them.
The ARS is involved in:
- 📌 the organization of care and territories,
- 📌 the regulation of installations and authorizations for opening,
- 📌 public health and care quality,
- 📌 the management of health situations.
For foreign doctors, the ARS also plays a role in regional integration, monitoring practices, and coordinating between establishments.
3. Professional Orders: A Mandatory Step Depending on Your Profession
Unlike the DREETS (which validates the authorization to practice), the Professional Orders are responsible for ethics, deontology, and the official registration of practitioners. Registration with the Order is mandatory before starting any position.
🩺 For European Doctors
They must register with the National Council of the Order of Doctors (CNOM), which is responsible for assigning the RPPS number, verifying professional morality, and ensuring the practitioner's compliance with the French framework.
Official website: National Council of the Order of Doctors
🦷 For European Dentists
They must obligatorily register with the National Order of Dental Surgeons (ONCD), which guarantees the quality of care and adherence to professional rules.
Official website: Order of Dental Surgeons
Euromotion provides a practical guide for this essential step: how to register with the Order in France.
4. How to Follow These Procedures in the Right Order?
To avoid frequent mistakes made by European candidates, here is the official order:
- Prepare European documents (diploma, certificate of compliance, proof of experience).
- Submit the request to the DREETS and obtain the authorization to practice.
- Register with the respective Order (doctors or dentists).
- Coordinate with the ARS if your establishment or place of activity requires it.
- Sign your contract (employed or self-employed).
- Finalize the installation: housing, schools, insurance, medical French.
5. Practical Steps: Housing, Language, and Installation
In parallel with administrative procedures, it is essential to anticipate practical aspects. Housing, language, and daily life are key to successful integration.
- 🏡 Housing guide: how to find accommodation
- 🎓 Courses and schools: learn medical French
- 📘 Administrative guides: our practical guides
6. Employment Opportunities in France in 2026
The demand for European doctors and dentists remains very strong in 2026, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas.
🔎 View available positions: medical and dental job offers
🚀 Ready to Navigate French Procedures in 2026?
Euromotion Medical supports you in your administrative, linguistic, and professional journey:
- 📘 Access our practical guides
- 🔎 Discover available job offers
- 💼 Find your position quickly via Mediirect
- 📩 Contact us: nicetomeetyou@euromotion.care
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