How does parental leave work in France?

Employees who have worked for at least 1 year before the date of their child's birth are entitled to parental leave or the option to work part-time until the child turns 3 years old.

In this article, we will cover:

• Parental leave breakdowns
• Parental Leave terms and compensation
• Indemnities and Social Security Benefits
• How do I request parental leave?

Parental leave breakdowns

The maximum period for parental leave is 1 year in total, which can be renewed twice, allowing the employee to take a total of 1 year of leave. For instance, the Employee may initially request 3 months of the 100% leave, and subsequently renew their request for an additional 6 months. To split a leave, make your request at least 1 month before the end of your parental leave.

Parental Leave terms and compensation

During parental leave, the Employment Agreement is suspended. The employer is not obliged to pay compensation during the parental leave period.

Indemnities and Social Security Benefits

The Employees may be entitled to receive indemnities from the social security system while on parental leave. These indemnities are paid amounts meant to support employees during their leave period.

How do I request parental leave?

Notify employer via letter with acknowledgment of receipt (LRAR) or hand-delivered letter with discharge receipt.

• Include start date and duration of parental leave.
• If starting immediately after maternity/adoption leave, inform employer 1 month prior to leave end. Otherwise, notify employer at least 2 months before leave start.
• For leave extension or part-time change, inform employer 1 month before initial leave ends.
• The employee must put in a leave request on Remote which must be approved by the employer.

For more information about parental leave, see the official website of the French Administration.