Sick Leave in France: Who Is Affected by the Reduction in Compensation Duration Starting October 15? – La Nouvelle Tribune

Starting October 15, 2026, France’s Health Insurance will only pay benefits for long-term illness (ALD) not fully covered for a maximum of twelve months. Two decrees issued on September 18 specify that the maximum payout duration for non-exempt ALDs is reduced from three years to one year, except for those fully covered at 100%, which remain at three years. These new rules apply to sick leaves prescribed from October 15 onward and to those reaching six months after this date, while leaves already exceeding six months before October 15 remain eligible for up to three years of benefits.