France introduces bill to increase salary transparency

The French government presented a bill to the Council of Ministers on September 10, 2026, aimed at transposing an EU directive regarding pay transparency. The legislation seeks to combat unjustified wage gaps, particularly between men and women, by increasing information rights for employees and requiring more clarity from employers.

If enacted, the law could see full implementation in companies by 2028. Key changes include prohibiting employers from asking candidates about their previous salary and requiring companies to provide salary ranges for new job offers. Employees will also gain a reinforced right to information regarding the average pay levels within their job categories.

While the reform is not expected to trigger automatic or generalized salary increases, experts suggest it may force companies to adjust wages where significant, unjustified disparities are identified. Employers will remain permitted to justify pay differences based on specific criteria such as experience, skills, responsibilities, or individual performance.