What is Relieving Letter?
A relieving letter is a document from your employer confirming that you have resigned and have been released from your duties with effect from a stated date. A new employer often asks for it during joining formalities. It is different from an experience letter. We found no section of the Labour Codes that prescribes its format.
Example
Your last working day is 30 June. The letter says you were relieved from your role as Software Engineer on that date after serving your notice. Keep it with your appointment letter and final payslip.
If you do not receive it
Ask HR in writing after clearance and final settlement. Do not treat withholding of a relieving letter as a substitute for the payments the Codes require. See F&F settlement.
Related terms and guides
Sources
- Ministry of Labour and Employment, https://labour.gov.in, official site, linked for readers
- Ministry of Labour and Employment, FAQs on the OSH Code, 2020, https://www.labour.gov.in/static/uploads/2026/01/fb8c6466d0d6a7ed581bcb2bee34694c.pdf, live official page, linked for readers; link checked 2026-10-31
This is general information, not legal, tax or immigration advice. Rules change and your situation may differ. Consult a licensed attorney or qualified adviser.