Masseur-physiotherapist: conditions of access and exercise in France
Verified 24 June 2024 - Legal and Administrative Information Directorate (Prime Minister), companies Directorate, Ministry of Health
- Regulated Health Profession
- Liberal activity
- EPA Code : 8690E / European Code :?
- Social contributions : Urssaf
- Retirement : CARPIMKO: titleContent
- Health insurance : scheme of PAMC: titleContent.
Definition
The physiotherapist is a professional in charge of diagnosis kinesitherapy and treatment the following:
- Movement disorders
- Motor skills
- Disabilities and alterations of capabilities functional human.
It achieves, in a manner that manual or instrumental, acts of massage and medical gymnastics, in particular for the purpose of rehabilitation on medical prescription.
These practices are done with the aim of prevent impairment of functional capabilities, to contribute to their holding and, when they are altered, to restore or y substitute.
The physiotherapist who works in a health facility (hospital, Ehpad: titleContent, etc.) may also engage in acts without medical prescription but respecting a limited number of 8 meetings maximum.
The masseur-physiotherapist is also authorized to perform acts without medical prescription in case of a situation ofurgency of care.
In any case, he has an obligation to make a report the patient’s treating physician.
The massage therapist can also help training initial and continuous as well as at the research medical scientist in the field of his art.
Access
The profession of massage therapist is regulated.
2 types of conditions must be met:
- Training and qualification
- Registration (declaration) to Council of Order physiotherapists (COMK)
Of specific conditions are for people EU nationals, (or Switzerland, or the EEA) or third country and who hold a physiotherapist qualification obtained in a country other than France.
I mean, others conditions shall apply in accordance with mode of exercise desired in France: it can be either an establishment permanent called Free establishment, or a temporary financial year, and occasional of the profession of physiotherapist, called Freedom to provide services (LPS).
FYI
If the conditions required are not filled, the exercise of the profession of physical therapist is illegal. This is a criminal offense punishable by 2 years in prison and €30,000 of fine.
Exercising in France the profession of massage therapist is accessible regardless of nationality to any person who completes the 2 conditions following:
- Hold the French State Diploma physiotherapist
- Be registered in the Order's table physiotherapists.
FYI
For a person who does not have the French State diploma, special conditionsshall apply depending on the country in which it has receipt its training or qualification physiotherapist or depending on the country where she already has practiced this profession.
The information is presented according to your nationality: French or a European country (EU, EEA or Switzerland) or a foreigner country (outside EU, EEA Switzerland).
French nationality
The conditions are different depending on the country where you graduated from MK and the country where you previously practiced MK, if that is the case.
State diploma obtained in France
Any French national who holds the French State Diploma of Kinesitherapist masseur, may exercise the profession on condition that register on the Order's board physiotherapists.
He can choose to practice by establishing themselves permanently, or by exercising temporarily and occasionally.
No other conditions are required, except that ofinform the Council of the Order of his choice of practice and of any information or change concerning his employment situation.
Diploma obtained in an EU, EEA or Swiss country
The possibilities of exercising differ according to whether the person wishes to exercise in France permanently or temporarily and occasionally.
Permanent exercise (Free establishment)
The permanent exercise of the profession of masseur-physiotherapist in France, is also called “libre establishment”.
Anyone who has obtained his degree in an EU, EEA or Swiss country must apply for a individual authorization to practice.
Conditions differ depending on whether the physical therapy profession is regulated or unregulated in the country where the person graduated.
Regulated profession in the country of graduation
What is the condition for applying for an individual license to practice?
The applicant has a title or a diploma obtained in one of the countries of theEU: titleContent , of theEEE: titleContent or Switzerland, allowing it tolegally exercise the physiotherapist profession in this country.
The profession of physical therapist is considered a regulated profession in the country of graduation.
How do I apply for an individual license to practice?
The person must to make the request itself.
It must send its request (addressed by post by registered letter) to the Regional Directorate for Economic Affairs, Employment, Labor and Solidarity (DREETS) of the region in which she wishes to practice as a masseur-physiotherapist.
This request is made by providing the subsequent documents :
- Application form for authorization to practice in France available on the DREETS website of the region where the person wishes to practice
- Declaration on the honor of not submitting a file for an application for authorization to practice in another region
- Photocopy of a valid ID
- Copy of the evidence of formal qualifications permitting the exercise of the profession in the country of acquisition
- All relevant documents proving continuous training, experience and skills acquired during the professional exercise
- Certificate justifying the exercise and duration of the profession in the country concerned
- Declaration by the competent authority of the EU or EEA State of establishment, less than one year old, that no sanctions have been imposed
- A copy of the certificates of the authorities which issued the evidence of formal qualifications specifying the details of the training.
Who shall I contact
FYI
As a rule, all documents (certificate, diploma, title or qualification) obtained in a non-French-speaking country must be either in French or translated into french by a translator approved by the French courts.
Example :
Each region has a different form. You must go to the DREETS website where the person wishes to practice the physiotherapist profession, download and fill in the form before sending it with the other required documents.
For the Hauts-de-France region, for example, go to the following page:
https://hauts-de-france.dreets.gouv.fr/Demande-d-attestation-de-conformite-UE-pour-un-diplome-paramedical-obtenu-dans-19569.
You will be redirected to a simplified steps page where you will need to create an account.
For example, for the Hauts-de-France region, you will be redirected to the following webpage: https://www.demarches-simplifiees.fr/commencer/dreets-hdf-attestation-conformite-directive-ue
After creating your account online, you will find the required form: https://hauts-de-france.dreets.gouv.fr/sites/hauts-de-france.dreets.gouv.fr/IMG/pdf/dossier_masseur-kinesitherapeute.pdf
Example :
Another example in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region:
https://auvergne-rhone-alpes.dreets.gouv.fr/Reconnaissance-des-qualifications-professionnelles-des-ressortissants
The tutorial of this site to file a file: https://auvergne-rhone-alpes.dreets.gouv.fr/sites/auvergne-rhone-alpes.dreets.gouv.fr/IMG/pdf/1_tuto_crae-2.pdf
And the link to "How to file?": https://www.demarches-simplifiees.fr/commencer/prof-paramedicales
The issue of the authorization to practice shall enable the person concerned to practice the profession in the same conditions persons holding a state diploma in massage therapy.
FYI
According to the level of qualification required in France and that held by the person concerned, the competent authority may require a compensation. It may either propose to the applicant to choose between adaptation period or a aptitude test. The competent authority may also impose an adaptation period or an aptitude test, or both.
Unregulated profession in the country of graduation
The person has a evidence of formal qualifications obtained in a member country of theEU: titleContent or theEEE: titleContent where the profession of physical therapist is not unregulated.
What is the condition for applying for an individual license to practice?
She must then to prove that it has exercised the profession of physiotherapist in that or those countries, during either:
- minimum 1 year full-time,
- or to part-time equivalent to one year during the Last 10 years.
How do I apply for an individual license to practice?
The person must to make the request itself.
It must send its request (addressed by post by registered letter) to the Regional Directorate for Economic Affairs, Employment, Labor and Solidarity (DREETS) of the region in which she wishes to practice as a masseur-physiotherapist.
This request is made by providing the subsequent documents :
- Application form for authorization to practice in France available on the DREETS website of the region where the person wishes to practice
- Declaration on the honor of not submitting a file for an application for authorization to practice in another region
- Photocopy of a valid ID
- Copy of the evidence of formal qualifications permitting the exercise of the profession in the country of acquisition
- All relevant documents proving continuous training, experience and skills acquired during the professional exercise
- Certificate justifying the exercise and duration of the profession in the country concerned
- Declaration by the competent authority of the EU or EEA State of establishment, less than one year old, that no sanctions have been imposed
- A copy of the certificates of the authorities which issued the evidence of formal qualifications specifying the details of the training.
Who shall I contact
FYI
As a rule, all documents (certificate, diploma, title or qualification) obtained in a non-French-speaking country must be either in French or translated into french by a translator approved by the French courts.
Example :
Each region has a different form. You must go to the DREETS website where the person wishes to practice the physiotherapist profession, download and fill in the form before sending it with the other required documents.
For the Hauts-de-France region, for example, go to the following page:
https://hauts-de-france.dreets.gouv.fr/Demande-d-attestation-de-conformite-UE-pour-un-diplome-paramedical-obtenu-dans-19569.
You will be redirected to a simplified steps page where you will need to create an account.
For example, for the Hauts-de-France region, you will be redirected to the following webpage: https://www.demarches-simplifiees.fr/commencer/dreets-hdf-attestation-conformite-directive-ue
After creating your account online, you will find the required form: https://hauts-de-france.dreets.gouv.fr/sites/hauts-de-france.dreets.gouv.fr/IMG/pdf/dossier_masseur-kinesitherapeute.pdf
Example :
Another example in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region:
https://auvergne-rhone-alpes.dreets.gouv.fr/Reconnaissance-des-qualifications-professionnelles-des-ressortissants
The tutorial of this site to file a file: https://auvergne-rhone-alpes.dreets.gouv.fr/sites/auvergne-rhone-alpes.dreets.gouv.fr/IMG/pdf/1_tuto_crae-2.pdf
And the link to "How to file?": https://www.demarches-simplifiees.fr/commencer/prof-paramedicales
The issue of the authorization to practice shall enable the person concerned to practice the profession in the same conditions persons holding a state diploma in massage therapy.
FYI
According to the level of qualification required in France and that held by the person concerned, the competent authority may require a compensation. It may either propose to the applicant to choose between adaptation period or a aptitude test. The competent authority may also impose an adaptation period or an aptitude test, or both.
Temporary exercise (Freedom to provide services)
The temporary and occasional exercise of the profession of masseur-physiotherapist corresponds to the provision of services.
This mode of exercise is also called " freedom to provide services (LPS) ”.
Regulated profession in the country of graduation
What is the condition for exercising the freedom to provide services?
If the provider is legally established and practicing the profession of physiotherapist in an EU or EEA country or in Switzerland with a diploma regulated in that State, he may engage in professional activities in France on a temporary and occasional basis.
He must prove that he obtained his diploma in the State in which he practiced.
He must perform a simple statement.
He does not need to register on the Order's board.
FYI
The professional qualifications of the service provider are verified prior to the first provision of services.
FYI
After receiving a positive response, favorable to his prior declaration of LPS (freedom to provide services), the applicant is not obliged to register with the National Council of the Order of Masseurs-Kinesitherapists. He can start practicing.
Unregulated profession in the country of graduation
What is the condition for exercising the freedom to provide services?
If the profession of massage therapist is not not regulated in the EU or EEA Member State where the trader has practiced, he must meet one of the following 2 conditions:
- Justify exercising in one or more EU or EEA Member States, during Minimum 1 year to full-time
- Justify exercising in one or more EU or EEA Member States on a part-time basis for a total period equivalent to 1 year in the preceding 10 years.
FYI
The professional qualifications of the service provider are verified prior to the first provision of services.
FYI
After receiving a positive response, favorable to his prior declaration of LPS (freedom to provide services), the applicant is not obliged to register with the National Council of the Order of Masseurs-Kinesitherapists. He can start practicing.
Diploma obtained in a third country (non-EU, non-EEA)
A person who holds a physiotherapist diploma obtained abroad can practice in France under certain conditions.
These conditions differ according to the desired mode of practice, permanent or temporary, and whether or not she has already practiced the profession of physical therapist in an EU (or EEA or Swiss) State.
Permanent exercise (Free establishment)
Person who has previously practiced in an EU or EEA country
The person has a evidence of formal qualifications obtained in a third country (out of EU: titleContent , out of EEE: titleContent and outside Switzerland) but recognized in a country Member of the EU or EEA (other than France).
She has to prove that she has practiced the physiotherapist profession in that EU or EEA Member State or Switzerland, during either:
- Minimum 3 years full-time,
- or to equivalent part-time to 3 years of fiscal year.
It can then apply for a license to practice permanently in France.
How to apply for a license to practice?
The person must to make the request itself.
It must send its request (addressed by post by registered letter) to the Regional Directorate for Economic Affairs, Employment, Labor and Solidarity (DREETS) of the region in which she wishes to practice as a masseur-physiotherapist.
This request is made by providing the subsequent documents :
- Application form for authorization to practice in France available on the DREETS website of the region where the person wishes to practice
- Declaration on the honor of not submitting a file for an application for authorization to practice in another region
- Photocopy of a valid ID
- Copy of the evidence of formal qualifications permitting the exercise of the profession in the country of acquisition
- All relevant documents proving continuous training, experience and skills acquired during the professional exercise
- Certificate justifying the exercise and duration of the profession in the country concerned
- Declaration by the competent authority of the EU or EEA State of establishment, less than one year old, that no sanctions have been imposed
- A copy of the certificates of the authorities which issued the evidence of formal qualifications specifying the details of the training.
Who shall I contact
FYI
As a rule, all documents (certificate, diploma, title or qualification) obtained in a non-French-speaking country must be either in French or translated into french by a translator approved by the French courts.
Example :
Each region has a different form. You must go to the DREETS website where the person wishes to practice the physiotherapist profession, download and fill in the form before sending it with the other required documents.
For the Hauts-de-France region, for example, go to the following page:
https://hauts-de-france.dreets.gouv.fr/Demande-d-attestation-de-conformite-UE-pour-un-diplome-paramedical-obtenu-dans-19569.
You will be redirected to a simplified steps page where you will need to create an account.
For example, for the Hauts-de-France region, you will be redirected to the following webpage: https://www.demarches-simplifiees.fr/commencer/dreets-hdf-attestation-conformite-directive-ue
After creating your account online, you will find the required form: https://hauts-de-france.dreets.gouv.fr/sites/hauts-de-france.dreets.gouv.fr/IMG/pdf/dossier_masseur-kinesitherapeute.pdf
Example :
Another example in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region:
https://auvergne-rhone-alpes.dreets.gouv.fr/Reconnaissance-des-qualifications-professionnelles-des-ressortissants
The tutorial of this site to file a file: https://auvergne-rhone-alpes.dreets.gouv.fr/sites/auvergne-rhone-alpes.dreets.gouv.fr/IMG/pdf/1_tuto_crae-2.pdf
And the link to "How to file?": https://www.demarches-simplifiees.fr/commencer/prof-paramedicales
The issue of the authorization to practice shall enable the person concerned to practice the profession in the same conditions persons holding a state diploma in massage therapy.
FYI
According to the level of qualification required in France and that held by the person concerned, the competent authority may require a compensation. It may either propose to the applicant to choose between adaptation period or a aptitude test. The competent authority may also impose an adaptation period or an aptitude test, or both.
Nobody who has ever practiced in an EU or EEA country
Any person who holds a physiotherapist diploma obtained in a third country, i.e. outside the EU, the EEA and outside Switzerland, and whose diploma is not recognized by an EU or EEA country (no bilateral agreement between countries), can practice the profession of physiotherapist in France at several conditions :
- Enroll in a Massage Therapist Training Institute (IFMK) of your choice. She can then ask for a waiver of part of schooling French studies leading to French State Diploma in Kinesitherapy. In order to obtain this exemption, she must pass selection tests. The applicant must submit a registration dossier at the training institute (IFMK) of his choice, providing the following documents:
- Photocopy of his massage therapist diploma or an equivalent title (the original will be provided upon admission to training)
- Statement of the program of studies followed, specifying the number of hours of courses per subject and per year of training, the content and the number of hours of each clinical training course carried out during the training in the different fields of physiotherapy (musculoskeletal; neuromuscular; cardiorespiratory, vascular and internal) as well as the continuous evaluation file, all issued and certified by a competent official authority of the country which issued the diploma
- Translation into French by a translator certified by the French courts of all the documents provided for in the preceding 2 points
- Curriculum vitae
- Letter of motivation.
Please note : point 2 shall not apply to the candidate who is a political refugee. - Pass the selection tests to obtain a partial exemption from schooling
- Obtaining the French State Diploma masseur-kiné
- Register on the Order's board massage therapists.
FYI
To have the right to register to table of the Order of physiotherapists, the person must justify a level of French language sufficient to practice the profession and knowledge of the weight and measurement used in France.
Temporary exercise (LPS)
Anyone who has obtained a physical fitness degree in a third country cannot work temporarily and occasionally in France (LPS).
Nationality EU or EEA or Swiss country
State diploma obtained in France
Any EU, EEA or Swiss national who holds the French State Diploma of Kinesitherapist masseur, may exercise the profession on condition that heto place on the Order's roll physiotherapists.
He can choose to practice by establishing themselves permanently, or by exercising temporarily and occasionally.
No other conditions are required, except that ofinform the Council of the Order of his choice of practice and of any information or change concerning his employment situation.
Diploma obtained in an EU, EEA or Swiss country
The possibilities of exercising differ according to whether the person wishes to exercise in France permanently or temporarily and occasionally.
Permanent exercise (Free establishment)
The permanent exercise of the profession of masseur-physiotherapist in France is also called “libre establishment”.
Anyone who has obtained his degree in an EU, EEA or Swiss country must apply for a individual authorization to practice.
Conditions differ depending on whether the physical therapy profession is regulated or unregulated in the country where the person graduated.
Regulated profession in the country of graduation
What is the condition for applying for an individual license to practice?
The applicant has a title or a diploma obtained in one of the countries of theEU: titleContent , of theEEE: titleContent or Switzerland, allowing it tolegally exercise the physiotherapist profession in this country.
The profession of physical therapist is considered a regulated profession in the country of graduation.
How do I apply for an individual license to practice?
The person must to make the request itself.
It must send its request (addressed by post by registered letter) to the Regional Directorate for Economic Affairs, Employment, Labor and Solidarity (DREETS) of the region in which she wishes to practice as a masseur-physiotherapist.
This request is made by providing the subsequent documents :
- Application form for authorization to practice in France available on the DREETS website of the region where the person wishes to practice
- Declaration on the honor of not submitting a file for an application for authorization to practice in another region
- Photocopy of a valid ID
- Copy of the evidence of formal qualifications permitting the exercise of the profession in the country of acquisition
- All relevant documents proving continuous training, experience and skills acquired during the professional exercise
- Certificate justifying the exercise and duration of the profession in the country concerned
- Declaration by the competent authority of the EU or EEA State of establishment, less than one year old, that no sanctions have been imposed
- A copy of the certificates of the authorities which issued the evidence of formal qualifications specifying the details of the training.
Who shall I contact
FYI
If the diploma is awarded by a State non-francophone, the application file for authorization to practice must consist of copies documents in language of origin accompanied by copies of translated documents. Otherwise, the file shall be considered incomplete. Copies should be attached, not the original documents. Translation must be done by a certified translator by the French courts.
Example :
Each region has a different form. You must go to the DREETS website where the person wishes to practice the physiotherapist profession, download and fill in the form before sending it with the other required documents.
For the Hauts-de-France region, for example, go to the following page:
https://hauts-de-france.dreets.gouv.fr/Demande-d-attestation-de-conformite-UE-pour-un-diplome-paramedical-obtenu-dans-19569.
You will be redirected to a simplified steps page where you will need to create an account.
For example, for the Hauts-de-France region, you will be redirected to the following webpage: https://www.demarches-simplifiees.fr/commencer/dreets-hdf-attestation-conformite-directive-ue
After creating your account online, you will find the required form: https://hauts-de-france.dreets.gouv.fr/sites/hauts-de-france.dreets.gouv.fr/IMG/pdf/dossier_masseur-kinesitherapeute.pdf
Example :
Another example in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region:
https://auvergne-rhone-alpes.dreets.gouv.fr/Reconnaissance-des-qualifications-professionnelles-des-ressortissants
The tutorial of this site to file a file: https://auvergne-rhone-alpes.dreets.gouv.fr/sites/auvergne-rhone-alpes.dreets.gouv.fr/IMG/pdf/1_tuto_crae-2.pdf
And the link to "How to file?": https://www.demarches-simplifiees.fr/commencer/prof-paramedicales
The issue of the authorization to practice shall enable the person concerned to practice the profession in the same conditions persons holding a state diploma in massage therapy.
FYI
According to the level of qualification required in France and that held by the person concerned, the competent authority may require a compensation. It may either propose to the applicant to choose between adaptation period or a aptitude test. The competent authority may also impose an adaptation period or an aptitude test, or both.
Unregulated profession in the country of graduation
The person has a evidence of formal qualifications obtained in a member country of theEU: titleContent or theEEE: titleContent where the profession of physical therapist is not unregulated.
What is the condition for applying for an individual license to practice?
She must then to prove that it has exercised the profession of physiotherapist in that or those countries, during either:
- minimum 1 year full-time,
- or to part-time equivalent to one year during the Last 10 years.
How do I apply for an individual license to practice?
The person must to make the request itself.
It must send its request (addressed by post by registered letter) to the Regional Directorate for Economic Affairs, Employment, Labor and Solidarity (DREETS) of the region in which she wishes to practice as a masseur-physiotherapist.
This request is made by providing the subsequent documents :
- Application form for authorization to practice in France available on the DREETS website of the region where the person wishes to practice
- Declaration on the honor of not submitting a file for an application for authorization to practice in another region
- Photocopy of a valid ID
- Copy of the evidence of formal qualifications permitting the exercise of the profession in the country of acquisition
- All relevant documents proving continuous training, experience and skills acquired during the professional exercise
- Certificate justifying the exercise and duration of the profession in the country concerned
- Declaration by the competent authority of the EU or EEA State of establishment, less than one year old, that no sanctions have been imposed
- A copy of the certificates of the authorities which issued the evidence of formal qualifications specifying the details of the training.
Who shall I contact
FYI
If the diploma is awarded by a State non-francophone, the application file for authorization to practice must consist of copies documents in language of origin accompanied by copies of translated documents. Otherwise, the file shall be considered incomplete. Copies should be attached, not the original documents. Translation must be done by a certified translator by the French courts.
Example :
Each region has a different form. You must go to the DREETS website where the person wishes to practice the physiotherapist profession, download and fill in the form before sending it with the other required documents.
For the Hauts-de-France region, for example, go to the following page:
https://hauts-de-france.dreets.gouv.fr/Demande-d-attestation-de-conformite-UE-pour-un-diplome-paramedical-obtenu-dans-19569.
You will be redirected to a simplified steps page where you will need to create an account.
For example, for the Hauts-de-France region, you will be redirected to the following webpage: https://www.demarches-simplifiees.fr/commencer/dreets-hdf-attestation-conformite-directive-ue
After creating your account online, you will find the required form: https://hauts-de-france.dreets.gouv.fr/sites/hauts-de-france.dreets.gouv.fr/IMG/pdf/dossier_masseur-kinesitherapeute.pdf
Example :
Another example in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region:
https://auvergne-rhone-alpes.dreets.gouv.fr/Reconnaissance-des-qualifications-professionnelles-des-ressortissants
The tutorial of this site to file a file: https://auvergne-rhone-alpes.dreets.gouv.fr/sites/auvergne-rhone-alpes.dreets.gouv.fr/IMG/pdf/1_tuto_crae-2.pdf
And the link to "How to file?": https://www.demarches-simplifiees.fr/commencer/prof-paramedicales
The issue of the authorization to practice shall enable the person concerned to practice the profession in the same conditions persons holding a state diploma in massage therapy.
FYI
According to the level of qualification required in France and that held by the person concerned, the competent authority may require a compensation. It may either propose to the applicant to choose between adaptation period or a aptitude test. The competent authority may also impose an adaptation period or an aptitude test, or both.
Temporary exercise (Freedom to provide services)
The temporary and occasional exercise of the profession of masseur-physiotherapist corresponds to the provision of services.
This mode of exercise is also called " freedom to provide services (LPS) ”.
Regulated profession in the country of graduation
What is the condition for exercising the freedom to provide services?
If the provider is legally established and practicing the profession of physiotherapist in an EU or EEA country or in Switzerland with a diploma regulated in that State, he may engage in professional activities in France on a temporary and occasional basis.
He must prove that he obtained his diploma in the State in which he practiced.
He must perform a simple statement to the Council of the Order of the MK.
He does not need to register on the Order's board.
FYI
The professional qualifications of the service provider are verified prior to the first provision of services.
FYI
After receiving a positive response, favorable to his prior declaration of LPS (freedom to provide services), the applicant is not obliged to register with the National Council of the Order of Masseurs-Kinesitherapists. He can start practicing.
Unregulated profession in the country of graduation
What is the condition for exercising the freedom to provide services?
If the profession of massage therapist is not not regulated in the EU or EEA Member State where the trader has practiced, he must meet one of the following 2 conditions:
- Justify exercising in one or more EU or EEA Member States, during Minimum 1 year to full-time
- Justify exercising in one or more EU or EEA Member States on a part-time basis for a total period equivalent to 1 year in the preceding 10 years.
FYI
The professional qualifications of the service provider are verified prior to the first provision of services.
FYI
After receiving a positive response, favorable to his prior declaration of LPS (freedom to provide services), the applicant is not obliged to register with the National Council of the Order of Masseurs-Kinesitherapists. He can start practicing.
Diploma obtained in a third country (non-EU, non-EEA)
A person who holds a degree in physical therapy obtained abroad can practice in France under certain conditions.
These conditions differ according to the desired mode of practice, permanent or temporary, and whether or not she has already practiced the profession of physical therapist in an EU (or EEA or Swiss) State.
Permanent exercise (Free establishment)
Person who has previously practiced in an EU or EEA country
The person has a evidence of formal qualifications obtained in a third country (out of EU: titleContent , out of EEE: titleContent and outside Switzerland) but recognized in a country Member of the EU or EEA (other than France).
She has to prove that she has practiced the physiotherapist profession in that EU or EEA Member State or Switzerland, during either:
- Minimum 3 years full-time,
- or to equivalent part-time to 3 years of fiscal year.
It can then apply for a license to practice permanently in France.
How to apply for a license to practice?
The person must to make the request itself.
It must send its request (addressed by post by registered letter) to the Regional Directorate for Economic Affairs, Employment, Labor and Solidarity (DREETS) of the region in which she wishes to practice as a masseur-physiotherapist.
This request is made by providing the subsequent documents :
- Application form for authorization to practice in France available on the DREETS website of the region where the person wishes to practice
- Declaration on the honor of not submitting a file for an application for authorization to practice in another region
- Photocopy of a valid ID
- Copy of the evidence of formal qualifications permitting the exercise of the profession in the country of acquisition
- All relevant documents proving continuous training, experience and skills acquired during the professional exercise
- Certificate justifying the exercise and duration of the profession in the country concerned
- Declaration by the competent authority of the EU or EEA State of establishment, less than one year old, that no sanctions have been imposed
- A copy of the certificates of the authorities which issued the evidence of formal qualifications specifying the details of the training.
Who shall I contact
FYI
As a rule, all documents (certificate, diploma, title or qualification) obtained in a non-French-speaking country must be either in French or translated into french by a translator approved by the French courts.
Example :
Each region has a different form. You must go to the DREETS website where the person wishes to practice the physiotherapist profession, download and fill in the form before sending it with the other required documents.
For the Hauts-de-France region, for example, go to the following page:
https://hauts-de-france.dreets.gouv.fr/Demande-d-attestation-de-conformite-UE-pour-un-diplome-paramedical-obtenu-dans-19569.
You will be redirected to a simplified steps page where you will need to create an account.
For example, for the Hauts-de-France region, you will be redirected to the following webpage: https://www.demarches-simplifiees.fr/commencer/dreets-hdf-attestation-conformite-directive-ue
After creating your account online, you will find the required form: https://hauts-de-france.dreets.gouv.fr/sites/hauts-de-france.dreets.gouv.fr/IMG/pdf/dossier_masseur-kinesitherapeute.pdf
Example :
Another example in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region:
https://auvergne-rhone-alpes.dreets.gouv.fr/Reconnaissance-des-qualifications-professionnelles-des-ressortissants
The tutorial of this site to file a file: https://auvergne-rhone-alpes.dreets.gouv.fr/sites/auvergne-rhone-alpes.dreets.gouv.fr/IMG/pdf/1_tuto_crae-2.pdf
And the link to "How to file?": https://www.demarches-simplifiees.fr/commencer/prof-paramedicales
The issue of the authorization to practice shall enable the person concerned to practice the profession in the same conditions persons holding a state diploma in massage therapy.
FYI
According to the level of qualification required in France and that held by the person concerned, the competent authority may require a compensation. It may either propose to the applicant to choose between adaptation period or a aptitude test. The competent authority may also impose an adaptation period or an aptitude test, or both.
Nobody who has ever practiced in an EU or EEA country
Any person who holds a physiotherapist diploma obtained in a third country, i.e. outside the EU, the EEA and outside Switzerland, and whose diploma is not recognized by an EU or EEA country (no bilateral agreement between countries), can practice the profession of physiotherapist in France at several conditions :
- Enroll in a Massage Therapist Training Institute (IFMK) of your choice. She can then ask for a waiver of part of schooling French studies leading to French State Diploma in Kinesitherapy. In order to obtain this exemption, she must pass selection tests. The applicant must submit a registration dossier at the training institute (IFMK) of his choice, providing the following documents:
- Photocopy of his massage therapist diploma or an equivalent title (the original will be provided upon admission to training)
- Statement of the program of studies followed, specifying the number of hours of courses per subject and per year of training, the content and the number of hours of each clinical training course carried out during the training in the different fields of physiotherapy (musculoskeletal; neuromuscular; cardiorespiratory, vascular and internal) as well as the continuous evaluation file, all issued and certified by a competent official authority of the country which issued the diploma
- Translation into French by a translator certified by the French courts of all the documents provided for in the preceding 2 points
- Curriculum vitae
- Letter of motivation.
Please note : point 2 shall not apply to the candidate who is a political refugee. - Pass the selection tests to obtain a partial exemption from schooling
- Obtaining the French State Diploma masseur-kiné
- Register on the Order's board massage therapists.
FYI
To have the right to register to table of the Order of physiotherapists, the person must justify a level of French language sufficient to practice the profession and knowledge of the weight and measurement used in France.
Temporary exercise (LPS)
Anyone who has obtained a physical fitness degree in a third country cannot work temporarily and occasionally in France (LPS).
Nationality outside EU, outside EEA, outside Switzerland
State diploma obtained in France
Any EU, EEA or Swiss national who holds the French State Diploma of Kinesitherapist masseur, may exercise the profession on condition that heto place on the Order's roll physiotherapists.
He can choose to practice by establishing themselves permanently, or by exercising temporarily and occasionally.
No other conditions are required, except that ofinform the Council of the Order of his choice of practice and of any information or change concerning his employment situation.
Diploma obtained in an EU, EEA or Swiss country
The possibilities of exercising differ according to whether the person wishes to exercise in France permanently or temporarily and occasionally.
Permanent exercise (Free establishment)
The permanent exercise of the profession of masseur-physiotherapist in France, is also called “libre establishment”.
Anyone who has obtained his degree in an EU, EEA or Swiss country must apply for a individual authorization to practice.
Conditions differ depending on whether the physical therapy profession is regulated or unregulated in the country where the person graduated.
Regulated profession in the country of graduation
What is the condition for applying for an individual license to practice?
The applicant has a title or a diploma obtained in one of the countries of theEU: titleContent , of theEEE: titleContent or Switzerland, allowing it tolegally exercise the physiotherapist profession in this country.
The profession of physical therapist is considered a regulated profession in the country of graduation.
How do I apply for an individual license to practice?
The person must to make the request itself.
It must send its request (addressed by post by registered letter) to the Regional Directorate for Economic Affairs, Employment, Labor and Solidarity (DREETS) of the region in which she wishes to practice as a masseur-physiotherapist.
This request is made by providing the subsequent documents :
- Application form for authorization to practice in France available on the DREETS website of the region where the person wishes to practice
- Declaration on the honor of not submitting a file for an application for authorization to practice in another region
- Photocopy of a valid ID
- Copy of the evidence of formal qualifications permitting the exercise of the profession in the country of acquisition
- All relevant documents proving continuous training, experience and skills acquired during the professional exercise
- Certificate justifying the exercise and duration of the profession in the country concerned
- Declaration by the competent authority of the EU or EEA State of establishment, less than one year old, that no sanctions have been imposed
- A copy of the certificates of the authorities which issued the evidence of formal qualifications specifying the details of the training.
Who shall I contact
FYI
As a rule, all documents (certificate, diploma, title or qualification) obtained in a non-French-speaking country must be either in French or translated into french by a translator approved by the French courts.
Example :
Each region has a different form. You must go to the DREETS website where the person wishes to practice the physiotherapist profession, download and fill in the form before sending it with the other required documents.
For the Hauts-de-France region, for example, go to the following page:
https://hauts-de-france.dreets.gouv.fr/Demande-d-attestation-de-conformite-UE-pour-un-diplome-paramedical-obtenu-dans-19569.
You will be redirected to a simplified steps page where you will need to create an account.
For example, for the Hauts-de-France region, you will be redirected to the following webpage: https://www.demarches-simplifiees.fr/commencer/dreets-hdf-attestation-conformite-directive-ue
After creating your account online, you will find the required form: https://hauts-de-france.dreets.gouv.fr/sites/hauts-de-france.dreets.gouv.fr/IMG/pdf/dossier_masseur-kinesitherapeute.pdf
Example :
Another example in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region:
https://auvergne-rhone-alpes.dreets.gouv.fr/Reconnaissance-des-qualifications-professionnelles-des-ressortissants
The tutorial of this site to file a file: https://auvergne-rhone-alpes.dreets.gouv.fr/sites/auvergne-rhone-alpes.dreets.gouv.fr/IMG/pdf/1_tuto_crae-2.pdf
And the link to "How to file?": https://www.demarches-simplifiees.fr/commencer/prof-paramedicales
The issue of the authorization to practice shall enable the person concerned to practice the profession in the same conditions persons holding a state diploma in massage therapy.
FYI
According to the level of qualification required in France and that held by the person concerned, the competent authority may require a compensation. It may either propose to the applicant to choose between adaptation period or a aptitude test. The competent authority may also impose an adaptation period or an aptitude test, or both.
Unregulated profession in the country of graduation
The person has a evidence of formal qualifications obtained in a member country of theEU: titleContent or theEEE: titleContent where the profession of physical therapist is not unregulated.
What is the condition for applying for an individual license to practice?
She must then to prove that it has exercised the profession of physiotherapist in that or those countries, during either:
- minimum 1 year full-time,
- or to part-time equivalent to one year during the Last 10 years.
How do I apply for an individual license to practice?
The person must to make the request itself.
It must send its request (addressed by post by registered letter) to the Regional Directorate for Economic Affairs, Employment, Labor and Solidarity (DREETS) of the region in which she wishes to practice as a masseur-physiotherapist.
This request is made by providing the subsequent documents :
- Application form for authorization to practice in France available on the DREETS website of the region where the person wishes to practice
- Declaration on the honor of not submitting a file for an application for authorization to practice in another region
- Photocopy of a valid ID
- Copy of the evidence of formal qualifications permitting the exercise of the profession in the country of acquisition
- All relevant documents proving continuous training, experience and skills acquired during the professional exercise
- Certificate justifying the exercise and duration of the profession in the country concerned
- Declaration by the competent authority of the EU or EEA State of establishment, less than one year old, that no sanctions have been imposed
- A copy of the certificates of the authorities which issued the evidence of formal qualifications specifying the details of the training.
Who shall I contact
FYI
As a rule, all documents (certificate, diploma, title or qualification) obtained in a non-French-speaking country must be either in French or translated into french by a translator approved by the French courts.
Example :
Each region has a different form. You must go to the DREETS website where the person wishes to practice the physiotherapist profession, download and fill in the form before sending it with the other required documents.
For the Hauts-de-France region, for example, go to the following page:
https://hauts-de-france.dreets.gouv.fr/Demande-d-attestation-de-conformite-UE-pour-un-diplome-paramedical-obtenu-dans-19569.
You will be redirected to a simplified steps page where you will need to create an account.
For example, for the Hauts-de-France region, you will be redirected to the following webpage: https://www.demarches-simplifiees.fr/commencer/dreets-hdf-attestation-conformite-directive-ue
After creating your account online, you will find the required form: https://hauts-de-france.dreets.gouv.fr/sites/hauts-de-france.dreets.gouv.fr/IMG/pdf/dossier_masseur-kinesitherapeute.pdf
Example :
Another example in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region:
https://auvergne-rhone-alpes.dreets.gouv.fr/Reconnaissance-des-qualifications-professionnelles-des-ressortissants
The tutorial of this site to file a file: https://auvergne-rhone-alpes.dreets.gouv.fr/sites/auvergne-rhone-alpes.dreets.gouv.fr/IMG/pdf/1_tuto_crae-2.pdf
And the link to "How to file?": https://www.demarches-simplifiees.fr/commencer/prof-paramedicales
The issue of the authorization to practice shall enable the person concerned to practice the profession in the same conditions persons holding a state diploma in massage therapy.
FYI
According to the level of qualification required in France and that held by the person concerned, the competent authority may require a compensation. It may either propose to the applicant to choose between adaptation period or a aptitude test. The competent authority may also impose an adaptation period or an aptitude test, or both.
Temporary exercise (Freedom to provide services)
The temporary and occasional exercise of the profession of masseur-physiotherapist corresponds to the provision of services.
This mode of exercise is also called " freedom to provide services (LPS) ”.
Regulated profession in the country of graduation
What is the condition for exercising the freedom to provide services?
If the provider is legally established and practicing the profession of physiotherapist in an EU or EEA country or in Switzerland with a diploma regulated in that State, he may engage in professional activities in France on a temporary and occasional basis.
He must prove that he obtained his diploma in the State in which he practiced.
He must perform a simple statement.
He does not need to register on the Order's board.
FYI
The professional qualifications of the service provider are verified prior to the first provision of services.
FYI
After receiving a positive response, favorable to his prior declaration of LPS (freedom to provide services), the applicant is not obliged to register with the National Council of the Order of Masseurs-Kinesitherapists. He can start practicing.
Unregulated profession in the country of graduation
What is the condition for exercising the freedom to provide services?
If the profession of massage therapist is not not regulated in the EU or EEA Member State where the trader has practiced, he must meet one of the following 2 conditions:
- Justify exercising in one or more EU or EEA Member States, during Minimum 1 year to full-time
- Justify exercising in one or more EU or EEA Member States on a part-time basis for a total period equivalent to 1 year in the preceding 10 years.
FYI
The professional qualifications of the service provider are verified prior to the first provision of services.
FYI
After receiving a positive response, favorable to his prior declaration of LPS (freedom to provide services), the applicant is not obliged to register with the National Council of the Order of Masseurs-Kinesitherapists. He can start practicing.
Diploma obtained in a third country (non-EU, non-EEA)
A person who holds a degree in physical therapy obtained abroad can practice in France under certain conditions.
These conditions differ according to the desired mode of practice, permanent or temporary, and whether or not she has already practiced the profession of physical therapist in an EU (or EEA or Swiss) State.
Permanent exercise (Free establishment)
Person who has previously practiced in an EU or EEA country
The person has a evidence of formal qualifications obtained in a third country (out of EU: titleContent , out of EEE: titleContent and outside Switzerland) but recognized in a country Member of the EU or EEA (other than France).
She has to prove that she has practiced the physiotherapist profession in that EU or EEA Member State or Switzerland, during either:
- Minimum 3 years full-time,
- or to equivalent part-time to 3 years of fiscal year.
It can then apply for a license to practice permanently in France.
How to apply for a license to practice?
The person must to make the request itself.
It must send its request (addressed by post by registered letter) to the Regional Directorate for Economic Affairs, Employment, Labor and Solidarity (DREETS) of the region in which she wishes to practice as a masseur-physiotherapist.
This request is made by providing the subsequent documents :
- Application form for authorization to practice in France available on the DREETS website of the region where the person wishes to practice
- Declaration on the honor of not submitting a file for an application for authorization to practice in another region
- Photocopy of a valid ID
- Copy of the evidence of formal qualifications permitting the exercise of the profession in the country of acquisition
- All relevant documents proving continuous training, experience and skills acquired during the professional exercise
- Certificate justifying the exercise and duration of the profession in the country concerned
- Declaration by the competent authority of the EU or EEA State of establishment, less than one year old, that no sanctions have been imposed
- A copy of the certificates of the authorities which issued the evidence of formal qualifications specifying the details of the training.
Who shall I contact
FYI
As a rule, all documents (certificate, diploma, title or qualification) obtained in a non-French-speaking country must be either in French or translated into french by a translator approved by the French courts.
Example :
Each region has a different form. You must go to the DREETS website where the person wishes to practice the physiotherapist profession, download and fill in the form before sending it with the other required documents.
For the Hauts-de-France region, for example, go to the following page:
https://hauts-de-france.dreets.gouv.fr/Demande-d-attestation-de-conformite-UE-pour-un-diplome-paramedical-obtenu-dans-19569.
You will be redirected to a simplified steps page where you will need to create an account.
For example, for the Hauts-de-France region, you will be redirected to the following webpage: https://www.demarches-simplifiees.fr/commencer/dreets-hdf-attestation-conformite-directive-ue
After creating your account online, you will find the required form: https://hauts-de-france.dreets.gouv.fr/sites/hauts-de-france.dreets.gouv.fr/IMG/pdf/dossier_masseur-kinesitherapeute.pdf
Example :
Another example in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region:
https://auvergne-rhone-alpes.dreets.gouv.fr/Reconnaissance-des-qualifications-professionnelles-des-ressortissants
The tutorial of this site to file a file: https://auvergne-rhone-alpes.dreets.gouv.fr/sites/auvergne-rhone-alpes.dreets.gouv.fr/IMG/pdf/1_tuto_crae-2.pdf
And the link to "How to file?": https://www.demarches-simplifiees.fr/commencer/prof-paramedicales
The issue of the authorization to practice shall enable the person concerned to practice the profession in the same conditions persons holding a state diploma in massage therapy.
FYI
According to the level of qualification required in France and that held by the person concerned, the competent authority may require a compensation. It may either propose to the applicant to choose between adaptation period or a aptitude test. The competent authority may also impose an adaptation period or an aptitude test, or both.
Nobody who has ever practiced in an EU or EEA country
Any person who holds a physiotherapist diploma obtained in a third country, i.e. outside the EU, the EEA and outside Switzerland, and whose diploma is not recognized by an EU or EEA country (no bilateral agreement between countries), can practice the profession of physiotherapist in France at several conditions :
- Enroll in a Massage Therapist Training Institute (IFMK) of your choice. She can then ask for a waiver of part of schooling French studies leading to French State Diploma in Kinesitherapy. In order to obtain this exemption, she must pass selection tests. The applicant must submit a registration dossier at the training institute (IFMK) of his choice, providing the following documents:
- Photocopy of his massage therapist diploma or an equivalent title (the original will be provided upon admission to training)
- Statement of the program of studies followed, specifying the number of hours of courses per subject and per year of training, the content and the number of hours of each clinical training course carried out during the training in the different fields of physiotherapy (musculoskeletal; neuromuscular; cardiorespiratory, vascular and internal) as well as the continuous evaluation file, all issued and certified by a competent official authority of the country which issued the diploma
- Translation into French by a translator certified by the French courts of all the documents provided for in the preceding 2 points
- Curriculum vitae
- Letter of motivation.
Please note : point 2 shall not apply to the candidate who is a political refugee. - Pass the selection tests to obtain a partial exemption from schooling
- Obtaining the French State Diploma masseur-kiné
- Register on the Order's board massage therapists.
FYI
To have the right to register to table of the Order of physiotherapists, the person must justify a level of French language sufficient to practice the profession and knowledge of the weight and measurement used in France.
Temporary exercise (LPS)
Anyone who has obtained a physical fitness degree in a third country cannot work temporarily and occasionally in France (LPS).
The Ordre national includes all masseurs-kinesitherapeutes authorized to practice the profession in France, whatever their mode of practice.
Registration in the Order of the MK is mandatory to legally exercise the activity of physical therapist in France.
Exception : the national of the EU or the EEA who wishes to practice in France temporary or occasional (freedom to provide services - LPS) should only make a statement prior.
Please note
Medical professionals working as military personnel, civil servants or medical professionals on parental leave, sick leave or retirement, are not required to register or register with the Order of the MK
General rule
Applicant's approach
The registration in the table of the Departmental Council of the Order (CDO) of the MK in which the physical therapist wants to establish his professional residence is obligatory. The practice of MK without registration may lead to prosecution for illegal practice.
Any professional who must register with the Order, must fill out a questionnaire :
Questionnaire - Registration to the National Council of the Order of Masseurs-Kinesitherapists
The request for registration must be addressed to the President of the departmental council of the Order of the MKs of the place of professional residence.
The trader must provide the supporting documents following:
Supporting documents to be provided to register with the Order of Masseurs-Kinesitherapists
National Order of Physical Therapists
Pour en savoir plus
The entire file must be sent to the Departmental Council of the Order of Physical Masseurs (CDO) in the department where the trader wishes to practice.
The request may be filed directly with the departmental council of the Order concerned or be sent by registered mail with a request for a notice of receipt.
To find the contact details of the Departmental Council of the Order of the MK concerned:
Who shall I contact
Proficiency in French
A level of minimum linguistic knowledge of the French language to practice the profession.
In order to register with the Order, provide the results of a french language test or take a test of language directly to the CDO headquarters registration department.
The 5 tests (or diplomas) the following issued by different bodies are possible:
- The International Center for Pedagogical Studies (CIEP) can issue the TCF (test of knowledge of French)
- The DELF (Diploma of study in French)
- The DALF (deep French diploma). Level B2 is required.
- The CCIP (Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Paris) via its French-language center
- The French Alliance.
There are many procurement centers throughout France and Europe.
FYI
For more information, the website of the Council of the Order of Physical Masseurs provides all the information (registration file and supporting documents to be provided): Registration on the table of the Order of Masseurs-Kinesitherapists.
Decision of the Council of the Order
The CDO must provide its decision to the applicant within 3 months maximum.
Pending notification of registration, the applicant is given a certificate of filing of the file, in order to carry out the rest of his administrative procedures, in particular with the URSSAF and CARPIMKO for the Liberals.
The applicant receives the CDO decision by registered post with acknowledgement of receipt (R/AR).
Please note
Thelack of response at the end of the 3 months, or the absence of an investigation within that period (absence of notification of the investigation of the file), amounts to an implicit decision by refusal registration.
Healthcare Professional Card (HPC)
After its registration on the Order Board, the MK automatically receives its healthcare professional card (CPS) with sound RPPS number written on it. This is the registration number for healthcare professionals.
It is automatically registered in the RPPS (shared directory of healthcare professionals).
Appeals in the event of refusal
If the applicant wishes to appeal a decision refusing registration, he must send his appeal to the NOC in the following month the date of the decision. A final appeal is then possible to the Council of State.
Who shall I contact
Payment of the ordinal contribution (to the Order)
After having received the notification of registration in the board of the order, the professional must pay his contribution to the Order called ordinal contribution.
This contribution is obligatory.
This contribution must be paid each year during the first quarter of the calendar year.
For example, the amount is €140 in 2024 for the 1re year of registration to the Order of an MK practicing as a liberal or in a mixed activity (liberal and salaried). The amount of the contribution for the 2nd year is 280 €.
FYI
To learn more about the ordinal contribution, the different tariffs and the regulation, the professional can visit the website of the National Council of the Order (NOC) of the MK: Ordinal contribution of physiotherapists
Temporary exercise (LPS)
Procedure to be carried out
A person who qualifies to perform a temporary and occasional (LPS) massage therapist service in France must perform a prior declaration Order.
The person must complete the form prior notification of LPS.
Prior declaration form of LPS (freedom to provide services) for physiotherapists
This prior declaration must be accompanied by documents (‘documents’) supporting documents listed below:
- Double-sided photocopy of an identity document (family booklet, valid passport, copy or extract of the birth certificate, residence permits whatever the regime). If this document does not provide for it, provide a supplementary document attesting to the nationality of the applicant.
- Photocopy of training document(s)
- Certificate from the competent authority of the State of establishment, member of the European Union or of the European Economic Area, certifying that the person concerned is legally established in that State and that he is not liable, when the certificate is issued, to any prohibition, even temporary, from practicing.
The documents in points 2 and 3 must be translated into French by a certified translator by the French courts.
Please note
The professional must declare that he has a minimum knowledge of the French language allowing him to practice. He must also be familiar with the weight and measurement system used in France.
Transmission of the declaration
The transmission of the LPS declaration can be carried out in two different ways:
- By mail (postal) or by email (e-mail)
- By post to the following address:
National Council of the Order physiotherapists
Legal Service
91 bis rue du Cherche-Midi
75006 Paris
- Or by e-mail to: service.juridique@ordremk.fr
- By post to the following address:
- By applying for a European Professional Card (EPC or EPC)
The application for a European Professional Card (EPC) is made entirely online (via internet) via the IMI information system. The application must be accompanied by documents (supporting documents) listed on this IMI system.
A total processing fee of €260 TTC is applied to each request.
The procedures for paying the treatment fees are specified after each application received by the National Council of the Order of Masseurs-Kinesitherapists.
The request from the EPC is performed following the following recommendations :
Knowledge Check
After the French authority has verified the professional qualification of the service provider making the declaration, it shall proceed to the control the applicant's command of the French language.
This check must be proportionate to the activity to be exercised.
FYI
If the competent French authority considers that the service provider does not possess the necessary qualifications, it may require him to pass a aptitude test.
If the authority refuses to exercise his right, the provider may, if he so wishes, appeal to a administrative tribunal.
Who shall I contact
Exercise
Step-by-step approach
The liberal activity may be exercised in a dwelling room. This may be the MK's main residence or an independent premises. Before doing so, it must be verified that the lease of a dwelling and the ownership rules do not prohibit the exercise of an activity.
The activity of MK involves the reception of patients. You also need to get a assignment change authorization office with the mayor in the cities of more than 200,000 inhabitants, in Paris, as well as in the municipalities of the little crown of Paris.
The activity may also be carried out in office space :
- Business premises or mixed-use premises (i.e. residential and business premises)
- Commercial premises: allows you to benefit from the advantages of the commercial lease, in particular: 9-year lease term, right to renewal at the end of the lease
- Subletting of premises already occupied by another trader
Warning
He is forbidden the MK to issue acts or prescriptions in a place (commercial or other premises) where sale of products or appliances in the list of medical devices which he may prescribe.
The site “Cartosanté - Where to settle in liberal with a click” provides a set of indicators in each territory to target the location of installation:
Cartosanté - Where to settle as a Liberal with a click
FYI
In order to combat inequalities in access to care, it exists several installation aids for MKs who wish to practice in under-endowed areas.
The MK is also prohibited from settling in the same building as a colleague already settled without the agreement of the latter or without the agreement of the CDO.
Mandatory steps
The MK liberal must declare his activity with the Primary Health Insurance Fund (CPAM) of his place of practice, including a certificate of registration in the Order's table.
The Liberal MK, which is about to exercise, mustregister with CPAM at the time of its first installation.
The CPAM then acceded to the MK convention of the Liberal MK.
Unlike the medical profession, there are not several "treaty areas".
The site " Masseur-physiotherapist: your installation in liberal ) of the Health Insurance allows you to file a file and to make an appointment with a counselor:
Masseur-Kinesitherapist - Installation in liberal: registration with the Health Insurance
Please note
This service cannot be used in the following cases:
- Installation of sub-cabinets
- Change of practice if the masseur-physiotherapist has already used the site “installation-kine.ameli.fr” for his previous installation
- Masseur-physiotherapist who does not yet have a NIR (social security number) or a RPPS (registration number in the register of health professionals) number.
During the interview, the health insurance advisor performs the following services with the MK:
- He saves the installation folder in the Health Insurance repository
- He orders pre-identified care sheets on behalf of the MK. It should be noted that, depending on the printing means available on site, a first set of pre-identified care sheets can be delivered immediately to the MK.
- He explains:
- The use ofCPS card
- Health Insurance services, including the dedicated telephone line and the amelipro portal, the Health Insurance Healthcare Professionals' Space, which provides a global view of the administrative situation of patients and allows the MK to consult information related to its activity
- Continuing vocational training schemes.
- He carries out with the MK the formalities for his personal social protection :
- Sound registration with the Urssaf (or points to representative Urssaf).
- Depending on the situation of the MK and provided that it has acceded to the national convention of physiotherapists, it shall carry out its membership of the health insurance scheme for medical practitioners and auxiliary medical staff (PAMC).
The social protection of the MK and its beneficiaries is covered by the health insurance scheme of the CMAP. The payment of contributions is made to the Urssaf.
In addition to the reimbursement of maternity, invalidity or death benefits, the MK benefits from an old-age, invalidity and death insurance, as well as a supplementary old-age insurance.
Accident at work Voluntary insurance against AT/MP risk (
Accident at work As a liberal, the MK can take out voluntary insurance against the risk of occupational disease and illness (AT/MP), as well as its collaborating spouse.
This insurance shall in particular enable the following to be taken advantage of:
- 100 % reimbursement, on the basis of conventional tariffs, of health costs linked to an accident at work/during the journey or to an occupational disease
- the payment of a capital allowance or a permanent incapacity pension (PPI) in connection with an accident at work/commuting or an occupational disease.
The fee is payable to the Urssaf.
Warning
To subscribe, you have to fill in the form Application for admission to individual voluntary insurance for occupational accidents and diseases (PDF). It must be sent to the health insurance fund.
For more information, the professional should ask his CPAM.
The MK may choose to practice alone or as a group.
Alone
The MK opens an individual firm that can take the form of a customer takeover or a creation.
The legal form can be one of the following:
- Individual business VID (EI)
- SELARLU (business of liberal practice with one-person limited liability)
- SELASU (single-person simplified liberal share business)
Please note
The MK cannot benefit from the micro-social scheme.
Multiple
Different types of businesses involving physical therapists
The collective exercise mode has several advantages, including the pooling of resources (computer equipment, personnel, premises, etc.).
It also allows the sharing of operating costs with the possibility of investing and making profitable the equipment.
It also offers greater comfort or flexibility in terms of working conditions or income.
Collective exercise can take different legal forms :
- Means businesses (SCMs) or economic interest groups (EIGs) allow the pooling of equipment, business premises and staff
- Exercise businesses or exercise groups pool resources and sometimes also client files, or even fees
- Businesses of persons take the form of a joint exercise agreement, a liberal exercise participation business (SPFPL) or a professional civil business (PCS)
- Capital businesses, such as the business of economic activity (SEL), allow capital to be made available while having the status of an employee
- The liberal contract of collaboration allows the MK to join another medical assistant or doctor without subordination.
- Inter-professional ambulatory care businesses (IAPH)
FYI
A partner of a PCS cannot be a member of both a PCS and an SEL. A partner may be a member of only one SCP and may not engage in the same profession on an individual basis.
For more details on different types of businesses involving masseurs-kinesitherapists, consult the following document of the Council of the Order of MK:
Different types of businesses involving massage therapists
National Order of Physical Therapists
Pour en savoir plus
Multiprofessional nursing home
The medical homes or multiprofessional nursing homes (MSP), bring together different health professionals and enable pooling of resources.
They improve revenue of the MK by a flat-rate income in addition to the income of the MK.
They ensure the coordination, quality and continuity of community-based care.
To learn how create or integrate an MSP existing: Multi-professional nursing home (MSP): instruction manual.
Registration must be done online on the website of the company Formalities Office in the 8 days after start of activity :
This declaration informs all the bodies concerned by the launch of the MK’s activity (Insee, social bodies, Urssaf, public finance center, etc.).
Insee shall assign a Siret number. This is a unique national identification number that identifies the establishment. It is composed of Siren (first 9 digits) which identifies the company and the Nic (last 5 digits) which is modified in particular when the address of the establishment is changed.
When registering the company, Insee also attributes to MK its EPA code. For the activity of masseur-physiotherapist, the code APE is 8690E.
All masseurs-kinesitherapists practicing in liberal have the obligation to take out professional indemnity insurance (CPR) before starting to practice.
The SPC guarantees the damage caused to third parties in the course of the activity: choice of the wrong treatment, poor follow-up of the patient, etc. It offers support in the search for an amicable solution, a covering of legal and procedural costs, as well as compensation for the damage.
The physiotherapist substitute is solely responsible for his mistakes. He is also required to take out insurance to cover his civil liability, as is thestudent on internship.
The businesses must also comply with this obligation.
Failure to comply with that insurance obligation shall be punishable by a fine of €45,000.
Liberal practitioners also face a additional penalty prohibition of practice.
The businesses shall be fined €225,000.
For theregistration at Urssaf, the KM should consult the dedicated area on the website of theUrssaf.fr entitled “You are a medical practitioner and assistant ”.
From the date of commencement of activity, the MK pays social security contributions to the Urssaf. They are calculated on the basis of realized income.
These contributions are must be paid online in one of the following ways:
- Either every month. The monthly payment is made on the 5th of each month (or the 20th on option) by direct debit.
- Either every quarter. The quarterly payment is made by direct debit, by electronic payment or by credit card. Contributions are payable for February 5, May 5, August 5, and November 5.
For more information on MK social contributions: see the factsheet Social protection for the liberal professional.
FYI
The MK cannot benefit from the micro-social scheme.
Social contributions are calculated on the basis of self-employment income.
Membership in Carpimko is mandatory.
It is automatic from the moment the trader has registered his activity as a self-employed liberal.
However, if, after one month of registration, the trader has received nothing from Carpimko, it is advisable to download and complete the following declaration and send it by post to Carpimko:
Carpimko: declaration of affiliation
Who shall I contact
Carpimko
CARPIMKO
Collections department
The Quadrants
3 Avenue du Center
CS 50035
78882 ST QUENTIN EN YVELINES Cedex
To find out more about membership of Carpimko, visit the following website:
Affiliation takes effect on 1er the day of the calendar quarter following the start of business.
Example :
If the activity starts on April 3, the membership takes effect on April 1er July.
The Code of Ethics for Massage Therapists is binding on all MKs practicing in France, whether they are registered with the Order or whether they are nationals of the European Union or parties to the Agreement on the European Economic Area, providing a service in France on a temporary or occasional basis.
It is also mandatory for replacement medical students.
In particular, the masseur-physiotherapist must respect the following principles in all circumstances:
- Morality, probity and responsibility essential to the exercise of physical therapy
- Professional secrecy
- Listen, examine, advise, care with the same conscience all persons whatever their origin, their morals and their family situation, their membership or non-membership, real or perceived, to a given ethnicity, nation or religion, their disability or state of health, their social security coverage, their reputation or the feelings they may have towards them. He must never abandon a correct and attentive attitude towards the person being cared for.
- Patient information and consent
- Assistance to anyone in danger.
Example :
The MK shall not:
- Receive gifts, monetary or in-kind benefits as part of your exercise.
- Offer discounts (lower rates than those set)
- Share his fees with colleagues.
The MK has a duty to report any act of violence or violation of dignity that he/she witnesses directly or indirectly towards a patient.
It is useful to consult the website of the Council of the Order which gives opinions and comments on ethical obligations of the KM, as well as a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ).
Opinion and comments of the National Council of the Order on the ethical obligations of massage therapists
National Order of Physical Therapists
Pour en savoir plus
In case of breaches of the MK's ethics, the Council of the Order (national or departmental or both) can prosecute the professional for disciplinary misconduct. The complaint may be made by the Order, a patients' association, a minister, a prefect, etc.
The procedure shall be before the Disciplinary Chamber of the Council of the Competent Order.
The prosecution is carried out in two phases: amicable conciliation and litigation.
The consequences can be: warning, reprimand, temporary prohibition of practice, removal from the Order’s roster, etc.
Please note
One independent and confidential self-help service is available for each professional in difficulty in the exercise of his profession at the green number next: 0800,288,038. It is accessible 24 hours a day and free for professionals in urgent need of listening and/or medical attention.
The combination of the exercise of physical therapy with another activity must respect the principles of professional independence, morality and dignity.
He must not take advantage of his prescriptions.
Thus, the occupations that are prone to meditation are forbidden. The comedy is the result of profit from prescriptions or medical advice. Therefore, a physical therapist cannot do the following:
- Manufacturer or vendor of medical devices
- An ambulance attendant or an ambulance business manager
- Owner or manager of a hotel for patients, a fitness room, a treatment facility, a center for advice on aesthetics, hygiene or dietetics, a fitness center, a spa, a massage room, a beauty institute, etc.
Likewise, it is prohibited for the professional to use an elected, political or union mandate or an administrative function to increase his clientele.
Unlike other health professions, a physiotherapist can practice within several businesses of liberal exercise (SEL) and combine this exercise with an individual exercise unless this exercise is done for free.
Example :
The Council of the Order of the MK proposes the following example: there is nothing to prevent a physical therapist from owning a shoe shop and exercising an activity there. By contrast, selling medical devices that it prescribes constitutes an ethical fault.
Any cumulation with additional activity that is not physical therapy should be done after the approval of the Departmental Council of the Order.
The opinions and comments of the Council of the Order specify the terms and conditions for cumulation activities other than physical therapy.
Conditions and procedures for cumulation of non-physiotherapy activities
National Order of Physical Therapists
Pour en savoir plus
Please note
The opening of a sub-cabinet is subject to the agreement of the Departmental Council of the Order. It is forbidden for an MK to open more than one sub-cabinet.
This training is obligatory.
In the event of failure to comply with this obligation, the trader shall be liable to a disciplinary sanction for non-compliance with the code of ethics.
Every health care practitioner, including massage therapists, should per 3-year period, follow a DPC route.
This course combines 3 themes:
- Training for further knowledge
- Rating of professional practices through practice analysis
- Risk Management.
A minimum of 2 actions on 2 themes different is required to fulfill its CPD obligation.
The National Agency for Continuous Professional Development (now ANDPC, formerly OGDPC) provides financial management for DPC actions.
This agency is in particular responsible for determining the conditions of compensation for liberal health professionals and contracted health centers participating in DPC actions.
For everything CPD information, the trader may contact the ANDPC:
Who shall I contact
National Agency for Continuing Professional Development (ANDPC)
The Agency may be contacted:
- By telephone: 01 48 76 19 05 (toll-free)
- By email: infodpc@agencedpc.fr
- By post: National Agency for Continuous Professional Development (DPC) - 93 avenue de Fontainebleau - 94276 Le Kremlin-Bicêtre Cedex
Who can help me?
Find who can answer your questions in your region
- Departmental Council of the Order of Masseurs-Kinesitherapists
- National Order of Physical Therapists
To mail an application for a license to practice
Regional Directorate for Economic Affairs, Employment, Labor and Solidarity (DREETS)Appeals in the event of refusal to exercise by the Council of the Order
Administrative TribunalDeclaration of affiliation to the pension insurance fund
Carpimko
CARPIMKO
Collections department
The Quadrants
3 Avenue du Center
CS 50035
78882 ST QUENTIN EN YVELINES Cedex
Continuous Professional Development (CPD)
National Agency for Continuing Professional Development (ANDPC)
The Agency may be contacted:
- By telephone: 01 48 76 19 05 (toll-free)
- By email: infodpc@agencedpc.fr
- By post: National Agency for Continuous Professional Development (DPC) - 93 avenue de Fontainebleau - 94276 Le Kremlin-Bicêtre Cedex
Conditions for admission to the profession of masseur-physiotherapist
Compulsory registration with the National Order of Massage Therapists
Professional acts authorized by a masseur-physiotherapist
Organization of the Council of the Order and the Disciplinary Chambers
Ethics of massage therapists
Professional indemnity insurance
Online service
National Federation of Physical Therapy Students
National Order of Physical Therapists
National Order of Physical Therapists
Entrepreneur - News
National Order of Physical Therapists
National Order of Physical Therapists
National Health Insurance Fund (Cnam)
National Health Insurance Fund (Cnam)
National Order of Physical Therapists
National Order of Physical Therapists
National Order of Physical Therapists