I (US Citizen) took a job with a reputable organization in France that sponsored my visa. I have a spouse, kids, and 3 pets (pets alone cost $6k to relocate). We sold our belongings in the US and had all just begun to really adjust. However I was notified last week that my employer is actually getting rid of an entire segment of their business which includes my job.
My employment contract does not contain any job loss protections outside of my trial period which was 3 months, which they had originally specified verbally is standard in France and would only end if I failed to pick up on the job.
I realize I have no legal protections as it was my naiveté to not pursue additional contract language regarding job loss during the trial period. I just never imagined this.
I’ve applied to over 50 jobs in a week and have already recieved rejections for most, as most employers won’t sponsor visas for whatever reason.
Not sure the purpose of the post but to say that when relocating, please protect yourself and truly realize how much you’re putting on the line by accepting a job abroad. My husband has not found work either in France so we’re at the point of having to go back to the US, pay all of the travel costs to do so, and have nothing there for us.
Yeah, so I don’t know how this would play out in France but my impression is labor law is very pro-employee. Probation does not necessarily mean “we can get rid of you for any cause” depending on the jurisdiction. And, even if legal, there is the chance of wrongful termination suit. And there are real damages here considering the family just moved. It’s a very bad look for the company. Keep in mind if the company gets sued they have to defend and that costs money. So there is a calculation to be made by the company on this as well even if they are likely to “win”.
So that’s why I would definitely be seeking legal advice, not sign off on anything w/o advice, and potentially even keep working. It’s very very difficult to say w/o details.
Unfortunately, I do not know how the probation period works in France. At least in Spain, They can fire you without motive. When I was relocated to Spain, I asked to work remotely because of this. When all the visa paperwork was done, my probation period had ended.