What are the Paternity and Birth Leaves in France?

Paternity leave in France is designed to support employees during the birth or adoption of a child. This article outlines the key aspects of paternity leave, including notice requirements, duration, compensation, and additional arrangements.


Notice to Employer

  • Notification Requirement: Employees must inform their employer by letter with a signature upon receipt at least 1 month before the due date of the arrival of the adopted child or the birth of the child.


Duration of Leave

  • Adoption Leave: Employees are entitled to 3+3 business days, which can be taken continuously or intermittently within a 15-day period following the arrival of the adopted child.

  • Birth Leave: Employees are entitled to 3+3 business days, which can be taken continuously or intermittently within a 15-day period following the birth of the child or the arrival of the adopted child.

  • Paternity Leave:

    • Simple Pregnancy: Up to 25 calendar days, starting immediately after the Birth Leave.
    • Pregnancy of Twins or More: Up to 32 calendar days, starting immediately after the Birth Leave.
    • Leave Arrangement: Paternity leave can be taken all at once or in fragments, with the following conditions:
      • The first 4 days must be taken immediately after Birth Leave.
      • The remaining days must be taken within 6 months of the birth, either:
        • All at once
        • In two separate periods, with each period being at least 5 days


Compensation During Leave

  • Birth Leave: Paid by the employer.

  • Paternity Leave:

    • For Employees with Less Than 2 Years of Service:
      • Salary is suspended by the employer during the leave.
      • Compensation is provided by the Public Health Insurance Fund (CPAM), provided the employee:
        • Has worked at least 150 hours in the last 3 months.
        • Is registered with CPAM for at least 10 months before the due date.
    • For Employees with 2 or More Years of Service:
      • Compensation is supplemented to ensure 100% of the regular salary:
        • First by the employer’s insurance (Mutuelle d’Entreprise), if applicable.
        • Then, the employer covers any remaining amount.
    • Payment by CPAM: Approximately every 14 calendar days.


Additional Arrangements

  • Medical Appointments: Employees are allowed to attend up to 3 pre-birth medical appointments during work hours.

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