A work certificate (or employment certificate) is a document issued by an employer certifying that an employee works or has worked for the company. It is essential for many personal and professional procedures, and the employer is legally required to provide it upon request.
Employer's Legal Obligation
In most jurisdictions, employers are legally required to issue a work certificate when requested by an employee. At the end of an employment contract, the certificate is mandatory. Failure to provide it can result in legal claims for damages.
When to Request One
- Bank loan application: banks require proof of stable employment and income
- Applying for a new job: to certify your professional experience
- Administrative procedures: visa application, housing file, school enrolment
- End of contract: the certificate is mandatory upon resignation, dismissal, or contract expiration
- Retirement file: to justify your periods of employment
What Should It Contain?
- Employer identity: company name, address, registration number
- Employee identity: full name
- Employment dates: start date and, if applicable, end date
- Position held: job title and description of duties
- Contract type: permanent, fixed-term, temporary, etc.
- Date, signature and company stamp
Tips for Requesting
- Submit your request in writing (letter or email) to HR or your manager
- Specify the intended use so the employer can tailor the content if needed
- Allow a reasonable deadline (typically 8 to 15 days)
- If refused, remind the employer of their legal obligation and consider legal recourse
Generate your work certificate request in a few clicks
Use the generator