Late for work because of the Paris metro: what to do

Public transport making you late for work? Here's what to do, how to tell your boss with proof, and what you should know about your rights.

🚇 Is my line running late? Check now

3 things to do right away

Check the traffic: is your line disrupted? (live verdict + next train).
Tell your boss straight away, with the line, the station, the official reason and your estimated arrival time (work out your journey time).
Keep proof: a dated screenshot of the traffic status and, if needed, a delay certificate from the operator.

Transport delays and your employer: what you need to know

A one-off delay that you report and can prove, caused by a transport disruption, is generally tolerated and isn't misconduct in itself. On the other hand, your employer in principle doesn't have to pay for the time you didn't work (unless a more favourable agreement or collective agreement applies). Best move: tell them fast and keep proof.

⚠️ This is general information, not legal advice: check your company's internal rules (règlement intérieur), your collective agreement (convention collective) or ask a professional.

What about a Navigo refund?

When punctuality falls short on certain lines, Île-de-France Mobilités provides Navigo compensation (the “garantie ponctualité”, or punctuality guarantee). The conditions change over time: check the official Île-de-France Mobilités website.

Check in 2 seconds

Pick your line: the traffic status shows up straight away with the official message (reason, section affected, announced end time), then the next trains at your station. For another line, see also live disruptions.

Frequently asked questions

Is being late because of the metro considered misconduct at work?

In general, a one-off delay caused by a transport disruption, reported and backed up with proof, isn't considered misconduct. It all depends on your company's internal rules (règlement intérieur) and your collective agreement (convention collective), though: let them know as soon as possible and keep proof.

What compensation can I get for a transport delay?

For your commute, your employer in principle doesn't have to pay for the time you didn't work (your pay can be reduced pro rata), unless a more favourable agreement or collective agreement applies. On the transport side, Île-de-France Mobilités provides Navigo compensation when punctuality falls short on certain lines (the “garantie ponctualité”, or punctuality guarantee): check the official website for details.

How do I tell my employer I'm late because of the metro?

Let them know as early as you can (text or call), give the line, the station and the reason, and suggest an estimated arrival time. Your line's page shows the official reason and the announced end time; the journey time calculator gives you your arrival time.

Is my line closed today?

Check it live: pick your line on En retard, chef to see whether traffic is suspended or disrupted right now, or look at the list of disrupted lines.