To renew a salaried residence permit or apply for a resident card, the préfecture requires a certificate from your employer confirming your employment, contract and income. If your employer refuses or delays, you need to know how to respond legally.
What must the certificate contain
The employer certificate for a titre de séjour must state: your full name, your social security number, the nature of your contract (CDI, CDD, temp), your start date, your gross monthly salary, the weekly hours, and the employer's signature and stamp. Some préfectures also require the last three payslips and a Pôle Emploi statement if applicable.
If your employer refuses to provide the certificate
An employer cannot legally refuse to issue a work certificate. Article L.1234-19 of the Labour Code obliges employers to issue a certificate to any employee. If refused, send a formal demand letter (mise en demeure) by LRAR citing this article and requesting issuance within 8 days. FrenchDesk generates this letter in 30 seconds.
What to do if the préfecture rejects the certificate
If the préfecture deems your certificate insufficient, they must notify you in writing of missing documents. You then have time to complete your file. If the refusal is on substance, you can file a gracious appeal contesting the stated grounds. FrenchDesk can help you draft this appeal.
Additional documents recommended
To strengthen your file, always include: last 3 original payslips, last year's tax notice, a copy of your employment contract, and if possible a letter from your employer confirming job continuity.