Dismissal: the notice period
How long is the notice if my employer dismisses me?
What the law says
- Dismissal must be notified by registered letter (or by your signature on a copy of the letter) (Art. L. 124-3).
- Two months’ notice with less than five years’ service with the same employer (Art. L. 124-3).
- Four months with five to under ten years’ service (Art. L. 124-3).
- Six months with ten years’ service or more (Art. L. 124-3).
Watch out for
- Notice starts on the 15th of the month if the letter arrives before the 15th, otherwise on the 1st of the next month (Art. L. 124-3).
- Other short deadlines exist (asking for the reasons, challenging the dismissal): get advice quickly.
Who can help
Official source : Code du travail (version du 26.7.2026) · Checked on 21.10.2026