Conditions of work

These rules govern hiring of staff and the exercise of the summer job. They require businesses to take into account the age and physical strength of employees in defining their duties. They also give seasonal workers the same advantages as other employees, such as access to the canteen and the right to bank holidays, as well as the same obligations (following internal rules, etc.). Finally, they guarantee seasonal workers 24 hours off a week - traditionally on Sunday - and two-and-a-half days' leave per month worked.

Age conditions

Seasonal workers can start to work from the age of 14 but conditions of employment are strictly regulated. For young people aged 14 to 16, working time is limited to 35 hours a week and night work is not allowed between 8 pm and 6 am. The employment contract must be signed by the legal representative and its term may not exceed half of the duration of the school holidays. For young people aged 16 to 18, the term is also limited to 35 hours a week, night work is not allowed between 10 pm and 6 am, and the minor's legal representative must give the employer their permission in writing.

The employment contract

The employment contract is a written document that allows the worker to enforce their rights in the case of a disagreement with the employer. They must of course state several items of information such as the identity of the two contracting parties, working conditions and pay. The classic seasonal employment contract is a short-term contract. Whatever the nature or term of the contract, legislation requires the employer to make a hiring statement to the Urssaf before hiring an employee.

Pay

The amount of pay must be stated in the employment contract and the employer must provide a pay slip for each month worked. The minimum wage for a seasonal worker depends on their age range. For young people aged 14 to 16, it is set at 80% of the Smic (minimum wage), 90% for young people aged 17 to 18, and finally it must be at least equal to the Smic for seasonal workers aged over 18. The Smic is currently 9 Euros gross per hour.

Social Security Contributions

The employer is required to declare hired staff to social security and pay their share of employer contributions. Several payroll contributions will also be deducted from the seasonal worker's pay. If no declaration is made (black market work), the seasonal worker does not benefit from any social security coverage or insurance and is therefore not covered in the event of any accident or illness.

Regulated sectors

Certain areas of activity are subject to specific rules. These are dangerous or strenuous jobs. Minors may not be assigned tasks which will lead to a state of abnormal tiredness or repetitive work where the rhythm of work is particularly strenuous. Likewise, they are also prohibited from working in bars or in the production and sale of publications contrary to public decency.

Declaring income from your summer job

Pay received by seasonal workers - whether or not they are attached to their parents' tax household - is only liable for tax under certains conditions. The exemption is capped at twice the gross monthly Smic on 1 July of the tax year. Only sums exceeding this cap must be declared.