Les Tickets Restaurant

With a social system that can be perceived as invasive, bureaucratic and information intensive, the rewards are often immeasurable. Despite the mounds of documentation, seemingly random questions and countless office visits, it is not surprising that one can feel that their individuality and personal privacy are infringed upon. Take for example, the transfer of an international licence over to a French licence. Obvious enough is the need for a copy of the international licence and verification of driving status by the governing bureau. But is it absolutely necessary to require proof of residency for the first 6 months of licensing?
 

While the process of qualifying for the benefits of the generous social, medical, educational and employment systems may seem daunting and downright irritating, some of the most innovative and appreciated payoffs are the rewards. The employment advantages themselves are numerous and globally recognized. With 5 weeks starting vacation, and a 35 hour full-time work week, French workers are already at an advantage in the areas of physical and mental health (less stress placed on the workday), leisure and lifestyle (the ability, encouragement and expectation to enjoy time away from work), and equality in the workplace (these are standard practices that require specific contract amendments to modify or alter). I should mention however, as with any system there are always loopholes and exceptions. For example, my current employment is contract based, in which I fall under a CDD (contrat à durée determine), which means that I unfortunately, do not enjoy 5 weeks paid vacation or the security of a permanent contract; although I am paid a percentage on each paycheque to cover for vacation and holidays, and I enjoy a flexible self-determined work schedule.

 

Additionally, French workers are also further rewarded through the implementation of Les Tickets Restaurant . While the rules and regulations governing these are specific, generally speaking, if an employer is unable to provide a cafeteria or lunch room on site then they are required to offer restaurant vouchers, which are a tax free incentive for the employer and an added bonus for the worker, who only pays no more than 50% of the value of the voucher from their paycheque. In my case, as long as I work at least 6 hours in one day, I am eligible to request a ticket resto for that day, by keeping a tally of all eligible days. At the end of the month half of the amount of each voucher is deducted from my pay and my employer pays the remaining difference. I then receive a booklet of vouchers worth €7 each (of which €3,50 is deducted from my pay).These vouchers can then be used at restaurants and for ready to eat groceries, with many establishments allowing payment with as many as 2 or 3 vouchers. The vouchers are good for the entire year and can be used for lunch, dinner or at the local grocers. So in essence you can enjoy a nice meal with a glass of wine, or pick up a baguette and viennoiserie at the local Boulangerie knowing that you have only paid for half of the purchase! Plus with an automatic paycheque deduction it is often unnoticed and not missed!

With a multitude of social advantages in France, the simple difficulties like language and unrushed attitudes are easily minimized, and the simple pleasures of daily life are emphasized by the generosity of a world class social system.

… Perhaps my view will change come tax time…? J