Can you resign from a CDI in France?
Yes — resignation (démission) from a CDI (contrat à durée indéterminée, permanent contract) is an absolute right of the employee. Your employer cannot refuse it, delay it, or penalise you for it. However, there are two important caveats: once clearly communicated, a resignation is generally irreversible, and it usually does not give you the right to unemployment benefits (ARE).
Should you resign or ask for a rupture conventionnelle?
Before sending a resignation letter, consider whether a rupture conventionnelle (mutual termination) might be a better option. A rupture conventionnelle gives you: a severance payment, and full unemployment benefit rights — neither of which you get from resignation. If your employer agrees (and many do, to avoid a contentious dismissal), it's usually the better choice financially. FrenchDesk can generate the initial letter requesting a rupture conventionnelle.
Notice period: how long is yours?
The notice period (préavis) is defined by your collective agreement (convention collective) and your employment contract. Check your convention collective — it's mentioned on your payslips. Standard durations in the absence of a specific agreement:
- Workers and non-management employees: 1 month
- Management employees (cadres): 3 months
Your employer can agree to waive or reduce the notice period if you ask — put this request in writing.
How to write a valid resignation letter
A resignation letter must be clear and unambiguous. It must state:
- The date you are giving notice
- Your intention to resign
- The length of your notice period
- The date your contract will end
You are not legally required to explain your reasons. Send by recorded post (lettre recommandée avec accusé de réception) or deliver by hand against a signed receipt. Keep a copy.
⚠️ Important: A verbal resignation is risky — always put it in writing. Sending the letter starts your notice period officially from the date of receipt by your employer.
Resignation and unemployment benefits: the exceptions
Standard resignation doesn't give you ARE (unemployment benefit). But several exceptions apply — France Travail calls these "démissions légitimes" (legitimate resignations):
- Relocation to join a spouse or PACS partner who is changing jobs
- Non-payment of salary by your employer
- Unilateral and substantial modification of your contract by your employer
- Documented moral or sexual harassment
- Resignation to start a business (subject to specific conditions)
What you're entitled to receive when you leave
At the end of your notice period, your employer must give you:
- Certificat de travail (proof of employment)
- Attestation France Travail (for unemployment registration)
- Solde de tout compte (final pay settlement, including outstanding holidays)
You have 6 months to challenge the final settlement after signing it.