BC Sick Days & Sick Note Rules (2026 Guide for Employees & Employers)

Can My Employer Ask for a Doctor’s Note in BC?

Generally, employers in BC cannot require a doctor’s note for short-term illnesses.

As of recent changes to BC regulations, employers:

• Cannot require medical notes for short absences (such as 5 consecutive days or less).
• Must accept reasonable proof if needed, but cannot demand unnecessary medical documentation.

The goal of the change was to reduce pressure on healthcare providers and prevent unnecessary doctor visits for minor illnesses.

When Can an Employer Still Ask for Proof?

Employers may request reasonable proof in certain situations, including:

• Absences longer than 5 consecutive days
• Repeated or suspicious absenteeism
• Disability-related accommodations
• Situations where medical documentation was previously required under benefits plans

However, requests must be reasonable and privacy-compliant.

Are BC Sick Days Paid or Unpaid?

In BC:

• The first 5 sick days per year (after 90 days of employment) are paid.
• Employers may offer additional unpaid or paid sick leave beyond the statutory minimum.

Employment contracts or workplace policies may provide greater benefits than the minimum required by law.

What Happens If an Employer Refuses Sick Leave?

If an employer:

• Refuses to provide paid sick days
• Improperly demands a doctor’s note
• Retaliates against an employee for using sick leave

The employee may file a complaint with the Employment Standards Branch.

Employers who fail to comply may face penalties.

Do BC Sick Days Apply to Part-Time Employees?

Yes.

Paid sick days apply to eligible employees regardless of whether they are full-time or part-time, as long as they meet the 90-day employment requirement.

Key Takeaways on BC Sick Days

• 5 paid sick days per year after 90 days of employment
• Sick days reset each calendar year
• Doctor’s notes generally cannot be required for short-term illnesses
• Employers must follow ESA rules