School absenteeism, lack of attendance: what are the rules and sanctions?

Some absences may be authorized provided that the school is informed. Absenteeism is controlled by the school and the academy. He can be punished.

If you do not justify your child's absence or if you give incorrect reasons, you risk a fine of €135.

If these unjustified absences compromise your child's education, you risk 2 years in prison and 30,000 € in fine.

Please note that the only legitimate reasons for absence are:

• illness in the child (or in a close relative if the child is potentially contagious);
• a solemn family reunion (marriage, burial, etc.);
• an obstruction caused by an accident during transport;
• the child who follows his legal representatives (travel outside school holidays).

In the event of repeated absenteeism, the school principal or head teacher should bring together members of the education community to propose measures to address the problem. A document summarizing these measures is signed with the persons responsible for the student in order to formalize this commitment.

The Academic Director of the National Education Service who has received the pupil’s application sends the persons responsible a warning. It also reminds them of their legal obligations and the criminal penalties they face. A social inquiry may be opened and, if necessary, the parents may be summoned by the Academic Director.

If the lack of attendance continues, the Academic Director has the opportunity to refer the case to the Public Prosecutor.

To learn more about attendance controls in schools, colleges and high schools, visit our fact sheet.