Hiring in France | Employment Law | HReact
Hiring in France

Employment contracts in France: securing your Legal Foundations

A French employment contract is not merely an administrative formality, it is the cornerstone of the employer-employee relationship and your strongest line of defence in the event of a dispute.

Between the Labour Code, Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs), and recent reforms, a poorly drafted clause or the wrong contract type can prove extremely costly.

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Which contract to choose?
The essential options

The permanent contract (CDI) is the norm, but it is not the only option. Depending on your needs (growth, cover, or training) we guide you towards the right format.

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CDI (Permanent Contract)

The standard format for building a stable team. It provides security for the employee and helps retain talent.

Our focus: Drafting the probationary period and its potential renewal, essential to assessing suitability prior to full commitment.

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CDD (Fixed-Term Contract)

Designed to meet a specific, temporary need, such as a surge in activity or cover for an absent employee.

Warning: An improperly justified CDD will be automatically reclassified as a CDI. Grounds, duration and waiting periods are strictly regulated, with numerous legal pitfalls.

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Apprenticeships & Internships

Ideal for nurturing your future talent whilst often benefiting from government support.

Key consideration: These contracts require specific formalities (CERFA forms, coordination with the school/training centre) and rigorous mentoring oversight.

Beyond the type of contract:
Strategic Clauses

A well-drafted contract goes beyond defining a role and salary. It must safeguard your company’s interests. We tailor your contracts by reviewing and securing sensitive clauses.

Secure My Clauses
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Variable Pay

Clear definition of objectives (qualitative and quantitative) to prevent disputes over commissions.

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Non-Compete Clause

Essential for certain roles, but unenforceable unless limited in time and scope, and supported by appropriate financial compensation.

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Mobility

To anticipate and manage future relocations or organisational changes.

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Intellectual Property

To ensure that your employees’ creations rightfully belong to the company.

Why have your contracts audited or drafted by HReact?

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Using a free template or translating a foreign contract is the #1 cause of employment tribunal disputes in France.

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Alignment with the Applicable Collective Agreement

We verify that minimum pay scales, length-of-service bonuses, and rest break entitlements are fully compliant.

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Contract Amendments

A role change? A change in working hours? We draft the necessary amendments to formalise changes without risk.

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Risk Prevention

We identify potential points of contention in advance to protect you from financial penalties or legal proceedings.

Don't let a drafting error jeopardise your business. Whether for a first hire or to update contracts across your entire team, we’ve got you covered.

Secure My Contracts