Introduction of court fee for employment tribunal claims

At a glance

• From 1 March 2026, a EUR50 court fee will apply when bringing claims before the French employment tribunal.
• The fee is payable by the claimant, whether employee or employer, subject to limited statutory exemptions.
• It applies on commencement of proceedings and is generally paid electronically.

Under the French Finance Act for 2026 (Law no. 2026‑103 of 19 February 2026), a EUR50 court fee has been introduced for claimants initiating proceedings before the Conseil de prud’hommes, with effect from 1 March 2026. The French Constitutional Council has upheld the measure, clearing the way for its implementation.

The fee applies to all types of employment disputes and is payable by the party bringing the claim. The online payment must be made at the start of proceedings. If payment is not made, the court registry must invite the claimant to pay within one month before dismissing the claim.

Exemptions apply in limited cases, including where the claimant benefits from legal aid. Where multiple successive proceedings concern the same dispute are brought before the same court, the fee is payable once only.