The retraining period: the new system since 2026
Stemming from the law of October 27, 2025 on seniors, transitions and professional retraining, the period of retraining entered into force on 1er January 2026. It replaces the Collective Transitions (Transco) and Pro-A schemes — Pro-A contracts signed before this date remain valid.
It is addressed to employees wishing to change careers and their offer:
- a time dedicated to retraining
- the partial or total maintenance of the employment contract
- a training course or a VAE (validation of acquired experience) process.
Accessible qualifications
- certifications registered with RNCP (National Directory of Professional Certifications)
- CQP (professional qualification certificates) by sector or across sectors
- skill blocks
- foundation of knowledge and skills CléA.
Two options
Internal retraining : the employee retains their contract and remuneration in their current company; an agreement defines the duration and terms of the training, with a view to career development within the company.
External retraining The employee signs a fixed-term contract for retraining of at least 6 months with a host company. Their original contract is suspended (not terminated): if the period is not confirmed, they return to their initial position or an equivalent position, with at least the same remuneration.
The financing
THE OPCOs provide the financing during the retraining period; the employee can also mobilize their CPF to help finance part of the training. Full details are available from your OPCO or on the website of Ministry of Labour.
The Professional Transition Project (PTP)
The PTP, successor to the Individual Training Leave (CIF) since 2019, is aimed at employees who are retraining for a new career. Its advantages:
- financing of qualifying training
- maintenance of remuneration during the duration of the training.
Applications are processed by associations Transitions Pro of each region. The coverage of educational costs (total or partial) and remuneration depend on the cost of the training, the salary of the applicant and the priority rules specific to each region.
Other ways to finance a career change
- THE CPF, which can be used alone or in conjunction with another device
- the aids of France Work for job seekers (AIF, POE)
- the co-financing of regional councils for certain audiences and sectors.
MDConseil Formation supports you
Are you considering a career change or do you want to support an employee's career change? Our teams help you choose the right program and build a training path that can be funded.