Guide for Return-to-Work Medical Examinations in France



Modified on: Mon, 13 Oct, 2025 at 5:20 PM

TABLE OF CONTENTS


In France, employees are legally required to undergo a medical examination with the occupational doctor before resuming work following certain types of extended leave. These examinations are part of the country’s health and safety regulations and are designed to ensure that employees are fit to return to their duties.



Types of Required Medical Visits


There are two types of medical visits:

  • Pre-Resumption Visit (Visite de préreprise): May be arranged before the employee returns to work, especially in cases of long-term absence.
  • Resumption Visit (Visite de reprise): Must be conducted after the employee returns to work, under specific conditions.


When Is a Resumption Visit Required?


An employee must undergo a resumption medical examination in the following cases:

  • After maternity leave
  • After an absence due to an occupational disease
  • After an absence of 30 days or more due to an occupational accident
  • After an absence of 60 days or more due to a non-occupational illness or accident


Purpose:

  • To assess whether the employee’s current or reassigned role is compatible with their health.
  • To review any recommendations made during a pre-resumption visit.
  • To potentially issue an inaptitude notice if the employee is deemed unfit for work.


Timing of the Examination


The examination must be organized by Horizons, as the legal employer, and take place:

  • On the day of the employee’s return to work, or
  • No later than 8 days after the return


Horizons is required to contact the occupational health service as soon as informed of the employee’s return date.

The examination must be completed before the Employee can resume regular work. 


What Employees Need to Do

  1. Report Your Sick Leave Promptly
    Please notify Horizons of your sick leave as soon as possible via the Horizons platform.
  2. Submit Medical Certificates
    Upload your initial sick note and submit any extension certificates through the Support contact form. This includes:

    • Any updates to your submitted leave

    • A doctor’s recommendation for early return (if applicable).

  3. Return-to-Work Medical Examination
    If your sick leave exceeds 30 days or involves specific medical conditions, a return-to-work medical examination will be scheduled. This must occur:

    • On your first day back, or

    • Within 8 days of your return


This requirement is outlined in Articles R.4624-31 and following of the French Labor Code. You can view the official regulation here.

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