Several similar-sounding Moroccan work documents exist. Knowing which one to ask for saves time.
The three documents to distinguish
Employment certificate (attestation de travail)
Confirms you are currently employed. The employer issues it on request, at any time. Used for:
- visas and travel;
- certain administrative registrations;
- opening an account, applying for credit.
Minimum content — employee identity, role, hire date, statement that the contract is active.
Salary certificate (attestation de salaire)
Adds the salary amount (usually the last three months or a monthly gross average). Used for:
- bank or mortgage credit applications;
- visas with means-testing;
- some rental applications.
The employer is not always legally required to issue it — but in practice it is given on request.
End-of-service certificate (certificat de travail)
Issued at contract end (Labour Code article 72). Mandatory. Content:
- entry and exit dates;
- positions held and their periods.
No mention of termination grounds or opinion. A derogatory mention would be a breach by the employer.
How to request
- Written request (email or letter) to HR or management, stating the document type and purpose.
- Reasonable timeline — typically 48-72 hours for an employment certificate, slightly longer for a salary certificate (figures to consolidate).
- Check the document bears date, employer stamp and signature.
In case of unjustified refusal, you can refer the matter to the labour inspectorate.
Further reading
- Labour Code glossary entry — article 72.
- Payslip decoding guide.