°µÍø½ûÇø

It is just a formality. This happens all the time in China. They just want a document to scan and put in a file. They won't actually use it. They just want the document so that a check-box can be checked off, and the paperwork can move forward.

What I would do;

I would generate a letter. Put the employer address at the top of the letter. Then write it such that it would say something like this;

Mr XXXXX was employed with YYYYYY from ZZZZZ to AAAAA. His employment was completed on XXXXX and separated on favorable terms.

Now, of course, if this was myself, I would take my old supervisor out for a pint and ask him to sign it. Then I would use it. I would not forge his signature. Alternatively, you can ask for a verbal ok to ask if they would refer you. Then using that OK, generate the letter.

However things are not always so nice and clean. I had the dickens of a time getting divorce papers CORRECTLY processed out of Little Rock, Arkansas. I did all kinds of things, and it was a big hassle. So I do understand the hurtles that you are involved in now. You see, the people outside of China are unaware of the problems that their lack of assistance is causing on you.

Eventually, I had to hire a local attorney to handcarry the papers to the offices in question and make sure that the errors were fixed and repaired.

Best of luck.

Many thanks for the guidance!

It does just seem like a formality and I don't think they would even do a thorough check in China.

Your idea of getting a verbal ok sounds like it will work.

I did explain to my former employer that I'm looking at positions internationally and the demands for a recommendation letter in places like China but I was just reminded of the policy.

Going down the official route is always the best option in the long run.

Thanks for the wise words!