In 2026, many European doctors and physiotherapists choose to settle in France. The country offers stability, high demand, and attractive salaries, but it is essential to understand the workings of the French tax system to anticipate your actual net income. Here is a simple, clear guide tailored to healthcare professionals from the European Union.
1. Understanding the basics of the French tax system
The French tax system is based on two main elements:
- ✔ income tax, calculated according to a progressive scale,
- ✔ social contributions, automatically deducted based on your status (employee or self-employed).
European professionals must also consider social security, retirement, mandatory insurance, and professional contributions.
2. Doctors and physiotherapists as employees: a simple and predictable system
For doctors and physiotherapists working in a hospital, clinic, or rehabilitation center as employees, the calculation of charges is automatic. Your paycheck already includes deductions (social security, retirement, CSG/CRDS).
This status offers:
- 🏥 a predictable net salary,
- 📑 fewer administrative obligations,
- 🛡 solid social coverage.
To visualize your future monthly net, you can use the Euromotion salary simulators.
3. Self-employed doctors and physiotherapists: high income but significant charges
The self-employed status is very common among physiotherapists and also favored by some doctors. The income can be higher than employment, but the charges are more numerous:
- ✔ URSSAF contributions,
- ✔ professional retirement fund (CARMF for doctors),
- ✔ mandatory insurance (RCP),
- ✔ office rent and equipment,
- ✔ local taxes.
The net income depends on the volume of activity and the region, with under-served areas often offering an immediate patient base.
4. Administrative procedures: what European professionals need to know
Even before declaring your income, it is essential to follow the French administrative path. In 2026, three organizations are involved:
📌 DREETS: practice authorization
The DREETS reviews your European diploma and issues the official license to practice. Website: https://dreets.gouv.fr
📌 Order of Doctors or Order of Physiotherapists / Dentists
Depending on your profession, registration with the Order is mandatory to obtain your RPPS number:
- 🩺 Doctors: National Council of the Order of Doctors
- 🦷 Dentists (if the article mentions mixed acts): Order of Dental Surgeons
- 👐 Physiotherapists: registration with the Council of the Order of Masseurs-Physiotherapists.
Registration with the Order is essential to bill, prescribe (for doctors), and legally practice in France.
5. Tax declarations: how does it work?
In France, every professional must fill out an annual income declaration. The procedure differs depending on the status:
- 🧾 Employee: the tax is withheld at the source and adjusted during the annual declaration.
- 📊 Self-employed: specific declaration (BNC) via an accountant or approved software.
Self-employed physiotherapists and doctors must also declare their activity to the URSSAF and the professional retirement fund.
6. What net income to expect in 2026?
European doctors and physiotherapists working in France in 2026 observe an interesting balance between salary, social benefits, and quality of life. The net income will depend on:
- ✔ the region where you settle,
- ✔ the type of practice (employee/self-employed),
- ✔ your specialty,
- ✔ the volume of activity.
For a personalized estimate: official Euromotion simulators.
7. Installation: do not forget the practical aspects
Taxation is only one aspect of your installation. European doctors and physiotherapists must also plan for:
- 🏡 housing: housing guide
- 🎓 the French language and medical French: schools & French courses
- 📘 general installation procedures: Euromotion practical guides
🚀 Ready to practice in France in 2026?
Euromotion Medical supports you from the first contact to your administrative, tax, and professional installation:
- 🔎 Check out the job offers for doctors and physiotherapists
- 📘 Explore our practical guides
- 💼 Find a position via Mediirect
- 📩 Contact us: nicetomeetyou@euromotion.care
- 📲 Follow Euromotion: Instagram • Facebook • X • LinkedIn
