Working Time and Flexibility

The famous 35-hour work week often scares international founders, but the reality is more nuanced:

Standard Working Time

Legal Framework: - 35 hours/week = full time - Maximum 48 hours/week (44 hours average over 12 weeks) - Minimum 11 hours rest between work days - Minimum 35 hours consecutive weekly rest

Overtime (Heures Supplémentaires): - Hours 36-43: 25% premium - Hours 44+: 50% premium - Can be compensated with time off instead

Flexibility Options for Startups

Forfait Jours (Annual Days Package): Perfect for executives and autonomous employees: - Work counted in days (typically 218/year), not hours - No overtime payments - Greater scheduling flexibility - Must be in written agreement - Minimum salary requirements

Modulation/Annualization: - Average hours over the year - Busy periods compensate for slow periods - Reduces overtime costs - Requires collective agreement or employee consent

Remote Work Arrangements: - No legal right to full remote (unless in contract) - Hybrid arrangements increasingly common - Must cover home office expenses - Need clear written agreement - Insurance implications to consider

Startup-Friendly Approaches

Many successful startups manage flexibility through: 1. Results-oriented culture: Focus on deliverables, not hours 2. Flexible hours: Core hours (e.g., 10am-4pm) with flexibility around them 3. Unlimited vacation policies: Surprisingly legal if well-structured 4. Four-day work weeks: Growing trend in tech companies