The Medal of Honor for Labor recognizes the dedication and long-term service of private sector employees and retirees working in France for French or foreign employers. It may also be awarded to those employed abroad by French companies or their subsidiaries, under specific conditions.
Awarded by order of the Minister of Labor—or delegated to the prefect—this distinction is conferred on January 1st and July 14 each year. Recipients receive a ribbon or rosette, along with a diploma detailing their honored service. Employers may offer a financial bonus, though it's optional and often outlined in collective bargaining agreements.
Wondering if you qualify? Learn the eligibility criteria, seniority requirements, and application steps for this prestigious award tied to years of faithful service.
This medal honors an employee's tenure and exemplary contributions. No nationality requirement applies. Active workers, retirees, and even posthumous awards for deceased employees with sufficient seniority are eligible. It covers private sector staff who have worked in France for any employer, or abroad for French firms.
Exclusions include agricultural workers, magistrates, military personnel, and public/territorial civil servants, who have their own dedicated honors like regional or municipal medals.
The medal has four levels based on minimum service:
Multiple employers' tenures count cumulatively. Certain absences—like national service, maternity/adoption leave, paid training internships, apprenticeships, or job conversion leave—also contribute. Periods abroad or in overseas territories for French employees can reduce required years, as can hardships for disabled workers (50%+ rating) or those in grueling roles eligible for early retirement.
Employees initiate the request. In France, download Form Cerfa 11796*01 from the Ministry of Labor site and submit to your prefecture, sub-prefecture, or DDCSPP based on residence.
Abroad? Use Cerfa 11797*01 and send to your French embassy. Include: ID copy, work certificates from all employers, recent employer attestation, national service proof (if applicable), and pension statement for disabled workers.
Deadlines: May 1st for July 14 promotions; October 15th for January 1st. Awards align with French labor traditions, rewarding loyalty and impact.
Photo credit: Gillesmourey
