France implements new restrictions on sick leave benefits

The French government is implementing new restrictions on sick leave benefits through recent decrees. Under a decree published in June 2026, initial sick leave prescriptions are now capped at 31 days, though extensions are possible up to 62 days if health conditions justify it.

A second decree, dated September 16, 2026, introduces further cuts for certain long-term conditions (ALD). Starting October 15, the maximum duration for daily indemnity payments for non-exempt ALD patients will be reduced from three years to one year. Patient advocacy groups, such as Fnath, have expressed concern that these measures weaken the rights of individuals unable to work due to their health.

In parallel, the government is seeking significant savings on sick leave expenditures. Minister Sébastien Lecornu is expected to ask social partners to identify at least 600 million euros in savings. Patrick Martin, president of the Medef, has commented on the rising number of short-term sick leaves and warned that cost-cutting measures should not simply shift the financial burden from the state to companies or employees through supplemental health insurance.