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Service Letter
"I need a service letter confirming 5 years of employment as a software engineer, detailing job responsibilities, skills acquired, and performance feedback, for a new job application."
What is a Service Letter?
A Service Letter is an official document employers in Saudi Arabia provide to employees when their work relationship ends. It states basic employment details like job title, start and end dates, and the last salary earned - all requirements under Saudi Labor Law.
These letters play a crucial role in the Saudi job market, as most companies require them from job applicants to verify their work history. While employers must provide these letters upon request, they can't include any comments that might harm the employee's chances of finding new work, following Article 64 of the Saudi Labor Law.
When should you use a Service Letter?
Request a Service Letter immediately after leaving your job in Saudi Arabia - it's a vital document for your next career move. Many employers require this letter during the hiring process to verify your work history, making it essential to obtain before starting your job search.
Human resources departments need to issue Service Letters when employees end their service, as mandated by Saudi Labor Law. The timing matters because delays can impact visa transfers, end-of-service benefits, and new job applications. Getting this letter promptly helps ensure a smooth transition between jobs and maintains compliance with local employment regulations.
What are the different types of Service Letter?
- Letter Of Employment Verification: The standard Service Letter confirming basic employment details, salary, and dates of service
- Letter Of Authorization: An enhanced Service Letter that includes power of attorney for specific post-employment actions
- Emergency Leave Letter: A specialized version documenting approved leave periods during employment
- Application Letter For Employment: Used when requesting a Service Letter from a previous employer
Who should typically use a Service Letter?
- Human Resources Departments: Responsible for drafting and issuing Service Letters, ensuring compliance with Saudi Labor Law requirements
- Company Directors or Managers: Must sign and authorize Service Letters as official representatives of the organization
- Employees: Request and receive Service Letters when ending employment, using them for future job applications and visa transfers
- Prospective Employers: Review Service Letters to verify candidates' work history and previous employment details
- Labor Courts: Reference these letters when resolving employment disputes or verifying compliance with labor regulations
How do you write a Service Letter?
- Employee Details: Gather full name, ID number, job title, and department as shown in official records
- Employment Dates: Confirm exact start and end dates of service, including any approved leave periods
- Compensation Details: Document final salary, allowances, and any agreed-upon end-of-service benefits
- Company Information: Include official company name, commercial registration number, and authorized signatory details
- Format Check: Use our platform's templates to ensure the letter follows Saudi Labor Law requirements and includes all mandatory elements
- Final Review: Verify all information matches HR records before getting management approval and signature
What should be included in a Service Letter?
- Company Details: Full legal name, commercial registration number, and official address of the employer
- Employee Information: Complete name, ID number, nationality, and last position held
- Service Duration: Precise start and end dates of employment as per Hijri calendar
- Compensation Statement: Final salary and any additional allowances received
- Official Letterhead: Company logo, contact information, and reference number
- Authentication Elements: Company stamp, authorized signatory's name and signature
- Legal Compliance Note: Statement confirming the letter's issuance under Article 64 of Saudi Labor Law
What's the difference between a Service Letter and an Employment Reference Letter?
A Service Letter differs significantly from an Employment Reference Letter in several key aspects, though both relate to employment documentation in Saudi Arabia. The main distinction lies in their purpose and legal requirements.
- Legal Obligation: Service Letters are mandatory under Saudi Labor Law when employment ends, while reference letters are voluntary and discretionary
- Content Scope: Service Letters strictly contain factual information like dates and position, while reference letters can include performance assessments and personal recommendations
- Timing of Issue: Service Letters are provided at employment termination, while reference letters can be issued at any time during or after employment
- Legal Weight: Service Letters serve as official proof of employment for visa and legal purposes, whereas reference letters primarily support job applications
- Format Requirements: Service Letters must follow specific legal formatting rules, while reference letters have more flexible structures
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