Sample letters for renewing a trial period
The renewal of a probationary period is subject to specific procedures. According to the law, the employer must notify the employee of their decision through a formal document (a letter proposing renewal), respecting the required notice period. This written notification from the employer, preferably by registered letter with acknowledgment of receipt, can also be initiated at the employee's request when the terms of the probationary period so provide (see renewal clause).
Discover a sample letter and a specific addendum template to facilitate contract updates and secure the employer-employee relationship.
Example of a trial period renewal letter
Renewal initiated by the employer
An employer may renew a probationary period if a contractual clause allows it. This renewal is formalized by sending a registered letter with acknowledgment of receipt or via a secure electronic signature. The letter may also be delivered directly to the employee in person.
The objective: to respect the notice period and inform the employee of the new legal duration of the trial period, as well as the reasons or justification for the renewal.
This is a unilateral action by the company. However, the employee's free and informed consent, in writing, remains mandatory for the extension to be confirmed. Ensure managerial approval, internal review, and verification.
Here is an example of a letter:
[Company Name]
[Company address]
[Employee Name]
[Employee's address]
At [place], on [date].
Subject: Renewal of the probationary period
Ms./Mr. [Employee's Name],
We would like to inform you that we wish to renew your probationary period, in accordance with the provisions of your employment contract dated [date of appointment].
Initially ending on [end date], your trial period is renewed until [new end date] inclusive.
The purpose of this renewal is to allow us to more thoroughly assess your integration into our team and the completion of the tasks assigned to you.
In accordance with applicable legal and contractual provisions, we kindly request that you return this dated and signed letter as your agreement.
Please accept, Madam/Sir, the expression of our distinguished greetings.
[Representative's First Name Last Name]
[Function]
[Signature]
(In case of mail delivered by hand)
[Made in duplicate]
[Employee's First Name Last Name]
[Signature]
Employee agreement
I, the undersigned, [Employee Name], accept the renewal of my probationary period for a duration of [duration] starting from [date].
Done at [place], on [date].
[Employee Name]
[Signature]
Renewal initiated by the employee
The employee can also request a renewal if, for example, they feel they need more time to validate their position. The extension request must follow the same procedures as those issued by the employer (sending a letter). Subsequently, the signing manager or the HR department gives their consent via an official confirmation letter.
Here is a sample letter:
[Employee Name]
[Employee's address]
[Company Name]
[Company address]
At [location], on [date]
Subject: Request for renewal of the probationary period
Ms./Mr. [Name of HR manager/manager],
I, the undersigned [Employee Name], currently on probation since [Start Date], hereby inform you of my wish to extend my probationary period until [Expected End Date]. This extension will allow me to further develop my skills and assess my responsibilities before my position is permanently confirmed.
I remain at your disposal for any further information and thank you for your understanding.
Best regards,
[Employee Name]
[Signature]
Example of a contract amendment for renewal
The regulatory framework does not require that the renewal of the probationary period be included in an addendum to the employment contract. The agreement signed between the employer and the employee is legally binding. However, if the company so wishes, this addendum may specify the start and end dates of the extended probationary period and the reason for the renewal.
Here is an example of an editorial template:
AMENDMENT TO THE EMPLOYMENT CONTRACT
Renewal of the trial period
Between the undersigned:
[Company Name]
Represented by [Name of representative], in the capacity of [Position],
Whose head office is located at [Company address],
Hereinafter referred to as the employer,
And
[Employee Name]
Residing at [Employee's address],
Holding the position of [job title],
Hereinafter referred to as the employee,
The following was agreed:
Article 1 - Purpose:
The purpose of this amendment is to renew the probationary period initially provided for in the employment contract dated [date of signature], in accordance with the articles [references to the Labour Code and applicable collective agreements].
Article 2 - Duration:
The initial trial period ended on [Date], it is extended until [New Date], i.e. [Number of additional days/weeks].
Article 3 - Employee Consent:
The employee acknowledges having read the above provisions.
This amendment is signed in duplicate, one copy of which will be given to the employee and the other kept by the employer.
Done at [Location], on [Date]
[Employer's signature]
[Employee signature]

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