My salary was paid in cash. How can I prove my work experience claims ?

When applying for an Australian Skilled Visa, it's essential to demonstrate your work experience accurately, as this experience can contribute to the points you need for the visa. If your salary was paid in cash, it might be more challenging to prove your employment compared to someone who was paid through bank transactions, but it's not impossible.

Key documents which can be used to prove cash salary claims: Employment Contract or Job Agreement, Experience Letter, Group Certificate, Tax return, Salary slips, Statutory Declaration etc.

Here are some suggestions to consider:

1. Employment Reference Letters: This is one of the primary sources of evidence. Obtain a detailed reference letter from each of your employers. It should be on the company's official letterhead and include:

   • Your job title, duties, and responsibilities.
   • Dates of employment.
   • Salary details (mention it was paid in cash).
   • Number of working hours per week.
   • The signature and contact details of the person verifying your employment.

2. Contract of Employment: If you had a formal contract or agreement when you started the job, this could serve as evidence.

3. Tax Documents: Even if you were paid in cash, you might have paid taxes on your income. Tax returns or documents can be used as evidence of employment.

4. Payslips: Even for cash payments, some employers provide payslips. If you have them, include them in your documentation.

5. Bank Statements: If you deposited some or all of your cash salary into a bank account, those deposits could support your claim. Highlight the consistent cash deposits that match your salary.

6. Co-worker Affidavits: Statements from colleagues or supervisors who can vouch for your employment can be supplementary evidence. They should clearly state how they know you, the nature of your role, and the fact that you were paid in cash.

7. Photos and Work Samples: Photographs of you at work, or samples of work/projects you completed, can be used as supplementary evidence.

8. Additional Training/Certifications: Any training or certifications you received during your period of employment can serve as indirect evidence of your work.

9. Membership in Professional Organizations: If applicable, being a member of a professional organization related to your job can serve as an additional reference.