Pregnancy and childbirth procedures: A comprehensive guide to all you need to know
Throughout your pregnancy and after giving birth, there are various administrative formalities that expectant mothers in France are required to complete. To make the process easier for you and to ensure that prevention is always better than cure, we have compiled a list of the main requirements that you must follow, along with the appropriate timeline for each.
| Administrative Formalities | When? | Required Documents |
|---|---|---|
|
Declaration of Pregnancy |
Before the end of the third month of pregnancy (12 weeks) |
Pregnancy certificate issued by your doctor or midwife |
|
Prenatal check-ups |
As soon as possible after declaring your pregnancy |
Health insurance card for each prenatal appointment, along with any medical documents or test reports you have |
|
Medical exams |
According to the deadlines given by your doctor or midwife |
Health insurance card and any medical documents you have, and/or requested by the healthcare professional who is following you |
|
Maternity leave |
As early as possible |
Medical certificate issued by your doctor or midwife |
|
Childbirth preparation |
As soon as possible after declaring your pregnancy
|
Health insurance card and a medical certificate issued by your doctor or midwife |
|
Birth declaration |
Within three days following the birth |
ID card, family record book (if you have one), and the birth certificate issued by the maternity hospital |
|
Choice of childcare |
As soon as possible |
ID card, proof of residence, and any documents requested by the chosen childcare provider |
Keep in mind that certain formalities mentioned above may have time constraints, therefore it's advisable to verify with your healthcare provider or pertinent authorities to avoid missing any critical deadlines. Additionally, there may be other administrative procedures that apply based on your individual circumstances. For instance, if you have a disability or are carrying multiple fetuses, there could be further formalities to fulfill.
After your baby is born, it's important to inform several organizations about the new arrival.
Below is a table outlining the procedures and deadlines to follow for each organization:
| Organization | Procedure to Follow | Deadline to Respect |
|---|---|---|
|
Town hall of the place of birth |
Declare the birth to the town hall of the place of birth of the child. You will need to provide a medical certificate of delivery and a family record book (if available).
|
Within 3 days following the birth |
|
Family Allowance Fund (CAF) |
Declare the birth to the CAF either online on the CAF website or by mail. You will need to send a declaration of situation form (Cerfa n°11423*06) and a birth certificate of the child.
|
Within 2 months following the birth |
|
Health insurance |
Declare the birth to your health insurance company by sending a form to declare choice of treating physician (S3704) and a birth certificate of the child.
|
Within 8 days following the birth |
|
Tax office |
Declare the birth to the tax authorities either online on the impots.gouv.fr website or by mail. You will need to send an income declaration form (Cerfa n°10330*26) and a birth certificate of the child.
|
Within 60 days following the birth |
|
Employer |
Declare the birth to your employer and provide a birth certificate of the child to be eligible for paternity or maternity leave. |
Within 7 days following the birth |
It's important to make sure you meet these deadlines to avoid any potential issues or delays with benefits, documentation, or legal requirements related to your new child.
The deadlines mentioned earlier are approximate and subject to variation based on individual circumstances. Hence, it is advisable to check with the relevant authorities to ascertain the precise deadlines that need to be adhered to.
Being pregnant can be a nerve-wracking time, but taking care of the necessary paperwork right from the start can help you feel more ready for your baby's arrival. If you have any questions about the specific paperwork requirements for your situation, don't hesitate to speak with your doctor or midwife.
And when it comes to non-administrative concerns, our Month-by-Month Pregnancy Guide is here to help. Think of it as your personal roadmap, providing you with the best practical advice for each stage of your pregnancy!
Leave a comment
Please note, comments must be approved before they are published