CDD Temps Plein Template for France

A CDD Temps Plein (Contrat à Durée Déterminée à Temps Plein) is a fixed-term full-time employment contract that allows French employers to hire temporary workers for specific, legally justified reasons. Unlike permanent contracts (CDI), this agreement has a predetermined end date and must comply with strict conditions under the Code du travail to protect worker rights while meeting legitimate business needs.

When do you need this document?

You need a CDD Temps Plein when hiring temporary full-time employees for legally authorized purposes under Article L1242-2 of the Code du travail. Common scenarios include replacing an absent employee, handling temporary increases in business activity, seasonal work, or specific project-based assignments. The contract is essential when you require 35 hours or more of weekly work from a temporary employee, ensuring they receive the same treatment as permanent full-time staff. You cannot use this contract to permanently fill a role or circumvent permanent hiring obligations, as French law strictly regulates when fixed-term contracts are permissible.

Key legal considerations

Several critical legal requirements must be addressed in your CDD Temps Plein. The contract must specify the precise reason for using temporary employment, as vague justifications can invalidate the agreement. Article L1242-12 mandates specific clauses including the exact job description, contract duration or end date, trial period terms, and salary details. The maximum duration varies by purpose but generally cannot exceed 18 months including renewals, with some exceptions for specific situations. Equal treatment provisions under Article L1242-16 require that temporary full-time employees receive the same wages, benefits, and working conditions as comparable permanent employees. Failure to include mandatory clauses or justify the temporary nature can result in the contract being reclassified as permanent employment (CDI) with significant financial consequences.

Legal requirements in France

French law imposes strict compliance requirements for CDD Temps Plein contracts. The document must be written in French and provided to the employee within two working days of starting work, as per Article L1242-12. Working time must comply with the 35-hour weekly standard under Article L3121-27, with any overtime subject to specific compensation rules. The contract must clearly identify both parties with complete contact information, specify the workplace address, and detail the remuneration structure including base salary and any additional benefits. Trial periods are limited based on contract duration: maximum 2 weeks for contracts under 6 months, 1 month for longer contracts. Termination before the end date is generally prohibited except in cases of serious misconduct, force majeure, or mutual agreement, making careful drafting essential to avoid legal disputes and potential damages for premature termination.