Can I Safely Switch Jobs Without a Relieving Letter and Transfer My Provident Fund?

I am working for a well-known IT company in India that requires a 3-month prior notice for a smooth exit. My one-year bond period ended 6 months ago, and I have 1.5 years of experience. This is my first job.

I have received an exciting offer from another reputable IT company, which requires me to join within 1 month. However, my current company does not allow negotiations for the notice period due to high attrition rates.

The new company is willing to hire me without a relieving letter. The HR at the new multinational company reassures me that there will be no issues with visas or future services.

My plan is to give only a 1-month notice to my current company and then take Loss of Pay leave and abscond from the services.

I believe that during any future Background Verification processes, my company will not disclose that I absconded, but rather that I was an employee. I have all necessary documents such as offer letter, appointment order, salary revision letter, bank statements, payslips, Form-16s, and a letter to the bank confirming my employment details.

Will there be any future issues if I join another company or during visa processing without a relieving letter from my current employer?

I also have a significant amount in my Provident Fund (PF). The HR at the new company mentioned that I can transfer the PF without any complications as PF authorities do not require input from the previous employer.

I am seeking suitable advice.

Siva,

While your concerns are valid, I think you are making a mountain out of a molehill. You have your own career. To my mind, the risks that you mention are all there. The risk has to be taken in perspective. For example, the risk in crossing the road at other than the designated spot is present, but most of us would take that risk without thinking too much about it. Yet, when we do take such a risk, we are cautious, and our senses are extra careful just in case we do not get run over. Think of it in this way and see if it makes any sense to you.

You can, if you wish, keep me informed on how things panned out.

Ravi Gorowala

Hi Siva,

I agree with Ravi, as he said you are having your own career. You also have your appointment letter, payslip, bank statement, etc. You need not worry at all. I think you can go ahead and join that too. You are giving a one-month notice period to this company. Okay, Good luck.

Dhana

Hi,

I am in a similar position right now. What about Visa stamping after a few years? Could that be a problem if I don't have a relieving letter from my previous employer? Also, my HR is threatening me to file a complaint against me. How bad can that be, and what can I do about it?

Thanks,
Rohan Kunte