- Many European employers call two references before an offer.
- Ask referees in advance and tell them about the role.
- Experience letters with dates and responsibilities help with visas and recognition.
- Background checks may verify your degree and past employers.
A reference check can delay an offer by a week if your referees don't answer. Prepare them before you need them.
Who to ask
- A former manager who saw your work closely.
- A senior colleague or client.
- For freshers, a professor or internship supervisor.
How to prepare referees
- Ask permission first. Never give a name without asking.
- Share the role and why you fit. Send the ad and two points you want them to confirm.
- Check their availability across time zones. European recruiters may call during Indian evening hours.
- Thank them afterwards. And tell them the result.
Experience letters
Ask each employer for an experience or relieving letter with your title, dates and main responsibilities. These letters help prove experience for the EU Blue Card IT route, the Opportunity Card points and recognition procedures.
Common questions
Do German employers check references?
Some call references; many rely on the Arbeitszeugnis, the reference letter German employers write.
What if my old company closed?
Use colleagues, clients and documents like payslips and contracts.
Can I refuse a background check?
You can, but the employer may not continue.
Sources
I moved to Germany for my master's, collected more than 1,000 rejections, and then got multiple job offers within six months. I work in digital marketing in Germany and help international professionals get hired in Europe. Read my story.