The Personal Character Reference Letter is a crucial document in various professional and personal contexts within the Netherlands. It serves as a formal testimony to an individual's character, reliability, and personal qualities, written by someone who knows the subject well in a professional or personal capacity. The document must comply with Dutch privacy laws and GDPR requirements, particularly regarding the handling of personal information. Typically requested for employment applications, educational admissions, housing applications, or immigration procedures, this letter should provide specific examples and observations that substantiate the character assessment. The writer must maintain objectivity and truthfulness, adhering to Dutch legal principles of good faith (redelijkheid en billijkheid) while avoiding potential defamation issues. The letter's effectiveness relies on the credibility of the reference provider and the concrete evidence provided to support character assertions.

1. Letter Header: Date, recipient's name and address if applicable, and formal greeting

2. Introduction: Writer's identification and relationship to the subject, including duration of acquaintance

3. Subject Information: Full name and relevant context about the person being referenced

4. Character Assessment: Detailed description of the subject's positive character traits, supported by specific examples

5. Professional/Personal Qualities: Description of relevant skills, achievements, and behavioral traits

6. Recommendation Statement: Clear statement of recommendation and writer's level of confidence

7. Closing: Professional closing, including contact information for follow-up questions