What should you do if your employer refuses to provide you with a reference letter for Express Entry?

If you wish to immigrate to Canada through the Express EntryThe professional reference letter is a key element in your file. But what if your employer refuses to provide or sign this letter? Here are a few steps you can take to get around this challenge.

Why is the reference letter so important in Entrée Express?

The reference letter plays a crucial role in the Express Entry process for several reasons:

Validation of professional experience

The letter of reference is primarily used to validate and certify the candidate's professional experience. It indicates not only the duration of employment, but also responsibilities, skills acquired and professional achievements. In this way, it enables the immigration authorities to confirm that the applicant's declarations match the reality of his or her career path.

Evaluation of points

The Entrée Express system works on the basis of a points systemThe assessment is based on a series of criteria. Professional experience is one of the key elements in this evaluation. A relevant and detailed reference letter can therefore help the candidate maximize his or her points in this category.

Reliability and credibility

A letter of reference, when provided by a previous or current employer, adds credibility to the application. It testifies to the applicant's reliability, seriousness and value as a professional. It also reassures the authorities of the veracity of the information provided.

Comparison between candidates

Express Entry is a competitive system, with many applicants applying for a limited number of places. Having a solid reference letter can make the difference between being invited to apply for permanent residency or not. It's a way for the authorities to assess and compare applicants' qualifications and experience.

Fraud prevention

By requiring letters of reference, the immigration authorities are also seeking to prevent fraud attempts or misrepresentation. A duly signed and authenticated letter is more difficult to falsify, and therefore offers an additional guarantee of the integrity of the process.

In conclusion, the reference letter is not simply an administrative document. It is a central element of the Entrée Express application, reflecting the candidate's competence, integrity and value. It is therefore essential to give it the attention and seriousness it deserves.

Documents to be supplied in the absence of a letter of reference

If you are absolutely unable to obtain a letter of reference or if it does not contain all the required information, you will need to provide as much supporting documentation as possible, including :

• Employment verification letter Confirming your position in the company, ideally with salary details.
• Employment contract or letter of appointment.
• Job offer letter.
• Letter of deputation If your company has transferred you from one country or subsidiary to another.
• Performance evaluations.
• Pay slips Covering at least the first three and last three months of your employment.
• Bank statements Showing your salary deposit.
• Proof of income tax payment.
• Reference letters Former supervisors, managers, HR representatives, colleagues, customers or patients, as the case may be.
• Company public profiles Details of job descriptions.
• General job description Issued by human resources, detailing the job and its functions. This document need not be in the candidate's name, but should have evidence of being issued by the company.

Notarized letter of reference

In addition to the above documents, obtain a reference letter written on plain paper by a senior colleague, manager or supervisor, covering all the details required by the ICCRC. Have this letter notarized. Also enclose a copy of the business card and/or company ID of the person signing this document.

Declaration in your letter of explanation

Also prepare a declaration in your Letter of explanation explaining why you cannot obtain a professional reference letter and why you have attached a letter from your colleague, supervisor or manager instead. If you have a refusal email from your employer, add this to your file too.

Keep in mind: it's the IRCC agent who decides

It is essential to understand that, in the absence of a reference letter containing all the required information, the final decision as to the validity of your additional documents will be at the total discretion of the immigration officer assessing your application. It is therefore essential to make every effort to obtain a complete professional reference letter.

By following these steps, you maximize your chances of having a solid file, even in the absence of a reference letter from your employer.