Settling in France as a European doctor or dentist is an excellent opportunity in 2026, but several administrative steps must be taken in a specific order. To facilitate this process, here is a complete checklist integrating the three key organizations: DREETS for practice authorization, the National Council of the Order of Physicians for doctors, and the National Order of Dental Surgeons for dentists.
1. Verify the recognition of your diploma
European medical degrees are recognized via the Directive 2005/36/EC. Before any procedure, it is essential to gather:
- ✔ Your original European diploma
- ✔ The EU compliance certificate
- ✔ Your proof of professional experience
2. Submit your application to DREETS
The first French authority to contact is DREETS (Regional Directorate of the Economy, Employment, Labor and Solidarity). It is responsible for:
- 📌 analyzing your qualifications file,
- 📌 verifying the authenticity of diplomas,
- 📌 issuing the practice authorization.
Official website: https://dreets.gouv.fr
3. Register with the corresponding Order
Once the authorization is granted, you must register with the professional Order to obtain your RPPS number. According to your profession:
- 🩺 Doctors: registration with the National Council of the Order of Physicians (CNOM) https://www.conseil-national.medecin.fr/ This is the body that regulates the medical profession in France.
- 🦷 Dentists: registration with the National Order of Dental Surgeons (ONCD) https://www.ordre-chirurgiens-dentistes.fr/ This body oversees the ethics and legality of the dental profession.
To simplify the process, Euromotion offers: Registration guide to the Order.
4. Choose your type of practice
Doctors and dentists can practice:
- 🏥 as employees in hospitals or clinics,
- 🏥 in the private sector,
- 🦷 in private practice, particularly common for dentists,
- ⚖️ in mixed practice.
To compare your income according to the practice, use the Euromotion simulators.
5. Find accommodation before starting your position
Accommodation is a key step for smooth installation. Landlords usually require an identity document, an employment contract, and sometimes a guarantee. Useful resource:
6. Prepare for your integration (language, schools, daily life)
Mastery of medical French is essential to practice independently in France. Furthermore, if you arrive with your family, it is essential to anticipate schooling and public services.
Useful resource: Schools & medical French courses
7. Understand salaries, taxes, and charges
Incomes vary depending on the specialty, region, and mode of practice. French social charges are high but allow for solid health and retirement coverage.
Official Euromotion simulators: calculate net salary in France
8. Search for available positions in 2026
France still faces strong demand, especially in underserved areas. Check available opportunities:
Job offers for doctors and dentists
🚀 Ready to settle in France in 2026?
Euromotion Medical accompanies you from initial contact to on-site installation:
- 🔎 Explore the job offers
- 📘 Consult our practical guides
- 💼 Find your position on Mediirect
- 📩 Contact us: nicetomeetyou@euromotion.care
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