You have discovered in your youthful world from 1ah November (505) the story of Laurence. At 13, she cleaned a snack bar in Quebec. A common situation in North America. But how is it going in France? From what age and how can you work? We tell you what you have to do to finance your passion or to give yourself a nice gift.
Your house
> Of course it is normal to help your parents in everyday life, tidying up your room or emptying the dishwasher. Your parents don’t have to pay you for it. On the other hand, do not hesitate to negotiate a small financial compensation for more demanding and unusual tasks such as repainting the garage door, mowing the lawn or cleaning the whole house. At home, you can also go through your closet for clothes you no longer wear and resell them on Vinted, with your parents’ account.
In your neighborhood
> If you want to earn a little more, don’t hesitate to ask your neighbors. For example, offer your child homework help or water the plants on vacation. Most of the time, this type of work is found through word of mouth. You can also ask a local retailer for permission to place a small ad in their window. Beware of online offers. You can hide fraud. Always inform your parents of your steps and ask them if there is the slightest doubt. Working before the age of 14 is illegal, but small work is tolerated.
Conventional work for older children
> 16 is the age at which you can work as an adult in France. This is also the legal age to become an apprentice. However, you can start an apprenticeship at the age of 15, provided you have completed your university education. From the age of 14 to 16 it is still possible to work under certain conditions. Your job should not take up more than 7 hours a day, only half of the school holidays and of course not endanger you. You earn at least 80% of the Smic (€8.76 per hour). Of course you need permission from your parents and from Labor Inspectorate. The application must be submitted by the employer.
The “cultural” exception
> However, some sectors have the right to hire young people under the age of 14. This affects the entertainment or audiovisual professions. For example, child models for commercials or those who act in films or in a show. Again, it is the Labor Inspectorate who agrees or disagrees. The money earned is then locked in an account accessible to their majority.
