VDI status

The VDI (Vendeur Indépendant à Domicile) status is often chosen by people who want to start their own business, become independent or supplement their current income. Choosing this status has many advantages, as the administrative procedures are straightforward and the business can be up and running quickly, once the VDI employment contract has been signed with the company. In particular, this profession offers the opportunity to work independently, managing your own schedule as you see fit. However, before taking the plunge, it's important to choose the right VDI company and to be properly informed about the status of independent home seller. VDI sales are governed by precise laws and represented by the FVD (Fédération de la vente directe), of which Elora is an active member.

VDI status and benefits

Definition of VDI

The term Vendeur à Domicile Indépendant (VDI) refers to a person whose activity consists of distributing the products or services of a company with which they have signed a written distribution contract. The salesperson sells products directly to customers in accordance with specific regulations. The products sold can be varied: food products, clothing and accessories or kitchen utensils.

Is being a VDI a profession?

A VDI is not an employee of the company it represents. They are self-employed, but are recognised by the State and are entitled to social security cover. Contracts for this type of activity do not therefore come under the Labour Code. On the other hand, the VDI is subject to legislation, as it is a regulated activity. Their field of activity is defined by the Commercial Code and the Consumer Code.

Why VDI status?

Companies are increasingly looking to develop new sales channels that offer a different experience. Customers are keen to find new, user-friendly purchasing systems in which they feel more involved. That's why the French government and the Fédération de la Vente Directe (FVD) have agreed to create the status of VDI. Home shopping, the 3rd most important distribution channel, is a dynamic sector that will continue to grow over the next few years in France.

The 6 advantages of a VDI

An activity that adapts to your life

On the one hand, sales staff have complete freedom to organise their working hours. They can adapt their activity to suit their personal needs and those of their customers. The independent home salesperson therefore has the opportunity to reconcile their private life and their professional activity as they wish. Many stay-at-home mothers, for example, prefer to work from home.

Additional income

You can work as a VDI on a full-time basis or in addition to a salaried job. You can combine this remuneration with your salary or other income.

The chance to become your own boss

It's an entrepreneurial activity that allows you to become independent. But you have to be careful, because being your own boss isn't easy every day, and it requires a great deal of autonomy. A good VDI is someone who knows how to be organised and self-motivated.

Remuneration commensurate with your involvement

A VDI's income depends very much on how much energy he or she wants to devote to it. Those who consider this activity as a simple income supplement will receive a sum to round off their monthly income. If they work full-time and have built up a good network, their income can be higher than that of a salaried employee.

No qualifications or experience required

The VDI profession is open to anyone, regardless of age, qualifications, experience or circumstances. This status gives anyone with a commercial bent the opportunity to carry out a sales activity in a protected environment. And there are no pre-requisites in this area. In addition, there is a wide range of training courses available for people who want to become more professional.

Getting started is quick and easy

Becoming a VDI is a quick and easy process, with few administrative constraints. All you need to do is provide the company with your social security number to start work.

Your questions about VDI

To find out more about VDI status, feel free to consult or print out our "Guide to VDI, the first steps"

• What is a VDI job?
• Become a VDI
• How can you launch a VDI with confidence?
• What is a VDI contract?
• How do you choose a company?
• What kind of investment and financial income does a VDI need?
• Administrative formalities for VDIs
• What are the seller's obligations?
• How can I improve and develop my VDI career?
• VDI agent or VDI buyer-reseller, what should you choose?
• How do I declare my VDI income?

Legal information

This FAQ is provided by VDI Elora in order to give you a simple and straightforward overview of the VDI status. Its purpose is to provide information on the most frequently asked questions, but it can in no way be your sole source of information or your reference for all social and legal aspects.

We therefore encourage you to consult the website of the Fédération de Vente Directe (FVD), the reference body for direct selling, for all your questions on social, tax and consumer protection rules relating to doorstep selling.

VDI at Elora

• The benefits of working as a home fashion consultant at Elora
• How does VDI work at Elora?
• Their new life as Elora VDIs