What is a Relieving Letter?

A relieving letter is an official document issued by an employer formally releasing an employee from their duties, responsibilities, and obligations upon resignation or end of employment. It confirms that the employee has been properly relieved and has no pending dues or obligations with the organisation.

In India, a relieving letter is considered essential when joining a new company. Most employers conduct background verification and require the relieving letter from the previous organisation before confirming the new employment. Without it, the new joining process can be delayed or rejected.

A relieving letter is different from an experience certificate - while the experience certificate describes what the employee did and for how long, the relieving letter formally closes the employment relationship and confirms there are no pending obligations.

When Do You Need a Relieving Letter?

  • When joining a new employer - most companies require it before or at joining
  • Background verification processes at the new organisation
  • Visa applications requiring proof of previous employment closure
  • When applying for government jobs that require NOC from previous employer
  • Immigration and PR applications requiring complete employment history
  • For PF transfer - EPFO may require relieving letter for full settlement
  • Legal disputes regarding employment termination or dues

What Should a Relieving Letter Include?

  • Company name and address on official letterhead
  • Employee's full name, designation, and department
  • Date of joining and last working day
  • Confirmation of formal relieving
  • Notice period details and whether it was served
  • Conduct and performance statement
  • Eligibility for rehire (optional)
  • Authorised signatory name, designation, and company stamp
  • Reference number and date of issue

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a relieving letter mandatory in India?+
While not legally mandatory, a relieving letter is standard practice in India and most employers require it before joining a new company. It confirms that the employee has been formally relieved of their duties and has no pending obligations with the previous employer.
What is the difference between a relieving letter and an experience certificate?+
A relieving letter formally releases an employee from their duties and confirms their last working day. An experience certificate confirms the duration and nature of employment. Many companies issue both documents together. Use our Experience Certificate Generator for the latter.
Can I generate a relieving letter for immediate resignation?+
Yes. Select 'Immediate' as the relieving type to generate a letter that relieves the employee immediately without a notice period. The letter will note that the notice period has been waived by the company.