47 Jobs in French Guiana

Work in French Guiana runs on monthly pay cycles, with employers filing mandatory social contributions through the Caisse Générale de Sécurité Sociale.

Questions

• Do I need a visa or work permit to work in French Guiana?

  Work permits are required for non-EU citizens, while French and EU nationals work without restriction. You must obtain an autorisation de travail from the local prefecture before starting employment if you fall outside these groups. Your employer typically initiates the application process.

• What types of employment contracts are offered?

  Employers offer permanent contracts (CDI), fixed-term contracts (CDD), and apprenticeship agreements (contrats d'apprentissage). Contract terms, probation periods, and salary are specified in writing before employment begins. Fixed-term contracts often appear in seasonal work linked to port operations and logistics.

• What is the standard working week in French Guiana?

  The legal standard is 35 hours per week. However, many roles in transport, retail, healthcare, and hospitality regularly exceed this, with overtime compensated through additional pay or time off. Employment contracts specify actual expected hours.

• How is overtime paid?

  Overtime is typically paid at 125% of the regular hourly rate for hours beyond 35 per week, though some agreements provide time off in lieu. Specific rates depend on the collective agreement (convention collective) governing your sector.

• What qualifications do employers ask for?

  Employers request proof of educational credentials—secondary school diplomas (bac), vocational qualifications (CAP, BEP), or higher degrees depending on role. For regulated professions like healthcare or transport, specific licences or certifications are mandatory. Many positions also require French language proficiency.

• When and how is salary paid?

  Salaries are paid monthly, typically between the 25th and the last day of the month. Payments are made by bank transfer or cheque, with payslips (bulletins de salaire) itemizing gross salary, deductions for social contributions, and net payment.

• What deductions come off my payslip?

  Standard deductions include contributions to the CGSS (French Guiana's social security fund), income tax if applicable, and any voluntary deductions. The CGSS contribution funds healthcare, pensions, and unemployment benefits. Employers also contribute separately on your behalf.

• Are there fixed holidays or annual leave entitlements?

  Employees receive a minimum of 25 days of annual paid leave (congés payés), plus 11 public holidays. Leave must be taken but often follows patterns linked to school calendars and the closure schedules of major employers.

• What happens during the probation period?

  Probation typically lasts one to three months depending on job level and sector. Either employer or employee can end the contract during this period with minimal notice. After probation, termination requires formal justification and notice periods specified in labour law or collective agreements.

• Can I work as a self-employed person or freelancer?

  Yes, self-employment is possible but requires registration with the relevant social scheme and compliance with tax obligations. Many freelancers in technical, consulting, and creative fields operate this way, though social contributions and administrative requirements differ significantly from employment.