Frequently Asked Questions
THE MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS & CORRESPONDING ANSWERS
What is the status of an 'alternance' intern ?
- An “alternance”-contract is an employment contract concluded between the employer and the trainee, whereby the start date of the internship is set on the 1st day of your arrival at the company or training center.
- The “alternance”-contract consists of a 45-day trial period, during which both parties (employer & trainee) can terminate the contract at any time. The cancellation is unilateral and such without any motivation regarding the termination of the contract.
- On the other hand, you have the professional contract, whereby both the labor code and the applicable collective labor agreements do NOT apply during the trainees’ trial period. In addition, you are obliged to undergo a medical examination. The aim of this research is to determine whether the trainee is fit enough to perform the intended position properly.
- Finally, the trainees have the same vacation entitlement as the other employees in the company, or 5 weeks per year. The alternant is regarded as a paid employee by law, but since September 2005 people can also benefit from the student statute.
What are the student's obligations within the company ?
- You are obliged to follow the working hours of the company closely, and you must also respect the employment regulations with due attention. Like any employee, you are subject to the labor code.
- As a trainee, you should mainly comply to the instructions of your supervisor.
- You also enjoy the relevant provisions that apply to other employees within the company.
- Finally, you are subject to collective agreements, which may be applied within the company where you work.