Changing companies, ending a situation that no longer works, or reacting to a failing employer: ending an apprenticeship contract is a right, but the process depends on the timing and the reason. Here is what you need to know in 2026 to do it by the book and move on quickly.
In short: during the first 45 days of effective presence in the company, the termination is free and needs no reason, simply in writing. Beyond that, an apprentice who wants to resign must refer the matter to the apprenticeship mediator and then notify the employer. After the contract ends, you keep your status and can stay at the training centre for up to 6 months to find a new company.
What are the rules during the trial period?
The apprenticeship contract includes a 45-day probationary period. Important point: these are 45 days of practical training in the company, meaning the days actually worked, not 45 calendar days. Time spent at the training centre does not count towards this total.
During this period, the termination is free, with no reason and no compensation. Both the employer and the apprentice can end it through a written notice given to the other party and to the director of the training centre. This is the simplest window to part ways if the role does not match what was announced.
How do you end the contract after the trial period?
Once the 45 days have passed, the termination becomes regulated. Several routes exist depending on who initiates it:
- Mutual agreement: employer and apprentice sign a written document together recording the termination. This is the fastest route when both parties agree.
- Resignation by the apprentice: since the 2018 reform, the apprentice can resign, but a precise procedure applies (see below).
- Dismissal by the employer: for serious misconduct, established unfitness, or force majeure, in compliance with labour law.
- Permanent exclusion from the training centre: it can lead to the termination of the contract.
Resignation: going through the mediator is mandatory
This is the step many apprentices overlook. To resign after the trial period, you must refer the matter to the apprenticeship mediator attached to your consular chamber (CCI, Chamber of Trades and Crafts, or Chamber of Agriculture). This referral is free and mandatory.
The timeline to respect:
- You refer the matter to the apprenticeship mediator.
- You then inform your employer, at least 5 days after the referral.
- The termination takes effect at least 7 days after the employer is informed.
Without first going through the mediator, an apprentice's resignation is not legally valid. Never leave your job before completing this procedure.
New in 2026: immediate termination for serious breaches
An important change makes it easier to leave when the employer fails to meet its obligations. In the event of serious breaches (safety not ensured, tasks unrelated to the training, wages not paid, etc.), the apprentice can end their contract immediately, without referring to the mediator and without notice. In case of a dispute, keep all the evidence (written exchanges, payslips): it will be useful if the matter is brought before the labour court.
What happens after the contract ends?
Good news: a termination does not leave you without a safety net. You keep your status as a vocational trainee and can continue your courses at the training centre for 6 months while you find a new employer. During this search, pay is covered by the State, at least equal to your apprentice salary, and you keep your social protection.
| Step | Time / duration | Key point |
|---|---|---|
| Trial period | 45 days worked | Free termination, no reason |
| Resignation after trial | 5 days then 7 days | Mediator required first |
| Serious breaches | Immediate | No mediator or notice |
| Staying at the training centre | Up to 6 months | Status and pay maintained |
Use this window to bounce back without losing your year: explore our apprenticeship offers and our training programmes straight away to secure a new place. Before signing your next contract, check your future salary with the pay simulator and review your financial aid. And to give yourself the best chance at the next interview, read again our tips to ace your work-study interview.
A termination is not a failure: handled well, it lets you find a better-suited company while keeping your rights and your training.