Teleworking has become a flexible solution for many employees and public agents in France. According to a study commissioned by Parella published in May 2024, nearly 70% of companies in France offer teleworking , with a predominantly adopted rhythm of 2 days per week. 🏡
But how many days a week can you actually work remotely? Here's a comprehensive guide to understanding the rules, whether you're in the private or public sector.
Teleworking in France: A clear legal framework
Teleworking in the private sector : what are the rules?
Teleworking is governed by the Labor Code, but the legislation leaves companies some flexibility to define their own rules.
So, how many days of teleworking per week are allowed in the private sector?
- Telework and law - number of days : In general, the law does not set a strict limit. The number of days depends on an agreement between the employer and the employee, often formalized by a charter or a collective agreement.
- Telework maximum number of days in the private sector : Some company agreements may provide for a maximum, for example 2 to 3 days per week. This number may vary depending on the needs of the company and the employee.
Teleworking in the public sector : what are the differences?
In the civil service, the framework is slightly different. The rules are set by decree, with specificities for each sector (State, local authorities, hospitals). So, how many days of teleworking per week are authorized for public agents?
- The maximum number of teleworking days is set at 3 days per week for a full-time agent.
- Teleworking in the public sector can be more flexible in the event of specific situations (pregnancy, disability, exceptional situations), making it possible to exceed this threshold under certain conditions.
How many days of teleworking per week can we request?
Conditions for requesting telework
Requesting telework is possible, but it is important to respect certain conditions to optimize your chances of obtaining a favorable response.
- Implement a teleworking policy : Companies must define clear rules via a charter or collective agreement.
- Requesting teleworking : The employee must formalize their request in writing, specifying the desired days and the reasons justifying this request.
- Advantages of teleworking : For the employee, it allows better management of personal and professional life, and for the employer, a reduction in costs and an improvement in productivity. 😊
Telework flexibility: floating days
The concept of floating days allows for greater flexibility in managing teleworking.
- Telework maximum number of days and exceptions : Companies can provide floating days that can be used as needed, without exceeding the maximum number agreed.
- Negotiating teleworking : It is possible to negotiate these floating days with the employer to better reconcile professional and personal constraints.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of teleworking over several days ?
Advantages of teleworking: better work-life balance
Teleworking offers many benefits, including:
- Mental and physical health : Less stress from commuting, more time for yourself and your family.
- Productivity : Some employees find that they are more focused and productive working from home.
The disadvantages of prolonged teleworking
However, teleworking several days a week can also have disadvantages.
- Isolation : Working alone can lead to feelings of loneliness and a lack of team cohesion.
- Technical difficulties : Connection problems, lack of adequate equipment, etc., can disrupt remote working.
Steps to request teleworking in France
Here are the steps to apply for telework in a private company:
- Formalization of the request : Write a written request specifying your motivations and the desired days.
- Your rights if denied : If your request is denied, you can request a written justification and explore other solutions with your employer.
How to request teleworking in the public sector?
For public officials, the procedures are specific to each sector.
- Public sector specifics : Whether you are a government, local government or hospital employee, conditions may vary. Check the guidelines specific to your sector.
- Documents to provide : A written request and supporting documents (particularly in the event of a special situation) are often required.
Teleworking is now well established in the French professional landscape. With legislation that is gradually adapting, it is possible to work from home several days a week while respecting the rules in force. Stay informed and enjoy the benefits of teleworking for a better quality of life at work!
Your telework & law summary: number of days
How many days a week can you telework in France?
How many days a week can you telework in France?
In France, the number of teleworking days per week is generally defined by an agreement between the employer and the employee. In the private sector, there is no strict limit imposed by law, but companies often set a maximum of 2 to 3 days per week. In the public sector, the maximum number is set at 3 days per week, with possible exceptions depending on specific situations.
What is the maximum number of days of teleworking authorized by law in the private sector?
What is the maximum number of days of teleworking authorized by law in the private sector?
The law does not set a maximum number of days of teleworking in the private sector. However, the number of days is generally governed by collective agreements or internal company charters. Most companies allow between 1 and 3 days of teleworking per week.
Can we telework more than 3 days a week in the public sector?
Can we telework more than 3 days a week in the public sector?
Yes, in certain special situations such as pregnancy, disability, or exceptional circumstances, it is possible to request telework of more than 3 days per week in the civil service. This request must be justified and validated by the administration concerned.
How to ask your employer for teleworking?
How to ask your employer for teleworking?
To request telework, it is recommended to make a written request to your employer, specifying the desired days and the reasons justifying this request. Consult the collective agreements or your company charter to find out the specific conditions.
