Unemployment Protection

The French unemployment insurance system (Assurance Chômage) provides generous benefits compared to many countries:

Eligibility: Workers must have contributed for at least 6 months in the previous 24 months (or 36 months for those over 53).

Benefits: Unemployment allowances (Allocation d'Aide au Retour à l'Emploi) typically equal 57-75% of previous gross salary, with a minimum and maximum threshold. The duration depends on the length of previous employment, up to 24 months (36 months for older workers).

Active Support: Beyond financial benefits, Pôle Emploi provides job search assistance, training opportunities, and career counseling. The system emphasizes activation—helping people return to work—rather than passive support.