No, child labor under 14 is illegal in France under the Code du travail (Article L. 7221-1), with exceptions strictly limited to cultural, artistic, or educational activities. The Inspection du travail enforces compliance, and recent 2026 amendments tighten parental authorization requirements for minors under 16.
Key Regulations for Child Labor Under 14 in France
- Prohibition of Employment: The Code du travail (Art. L. 7221-1) bans paid work for children under 14, except in narrowly defined scenarios. Unpaid work in family businesses is permitted only if non-hazardous and supervised.
- Cultural/Artistic Exceptions: Minors under 14 may work in performances (e.g., film, theater) with prior approval from the Direction départementale de la protection des populations (DDPP) and mandatory school authorization.
- Educational Derogations: School-based work-study programs (mini-stages d’observation) for under-14s require written consent from the rectorat and are capped at 5 days annually.