Doctor’s Notes in BC — What Employees Need to Know (2025 Update)

If you’re sick and need time off work in British Columbia, do you need a doctor’s note? As of November 12, 2025, the answer has changed.

The BC government has officially limited when employers can ask for a doctor’s note, reducing paperwork for doctors and stress for sick employees. Here’s what every worker should know about the new rules — and what your employer can and can’t ask for.

Can my employer ask for a doctor’s note in BC?

Not for your first two short-term absences.

Under the new Employment Standards regulations, employers in BC can’t ask for a sick note for your first two health-related absences in a calendar year, as long as each absence lasts five consecutive days or fewer (BC Government News).

• After that, your employer may request proof of illness — such as a doctor’s note or other documentation — for additional absences or longer illnesses.
• These changes were introduced through Bill 11 and took effect immediately to reduce unnecessary medical visits and allow doctors to focus on patient care.

Why did the government make this change?

The BC government says the new rules aim to:

• Reduce the administrative burden on health-care providers
• Prevent the spread of illness by keeping sick people at home
• Protect employees’ time and income during short-term illness

As Labour Minister Jennifer Whiteside explained, “When you’re sick with the flu, the last thing you should have to do is go to your doctor to get a note that says you’re sick” (BC Government News).

Health Minister Josie Osborne added that the change ensures people can “stay home to recover and help prevent the spread of illness without the added stress of getting a sick note” (CBC News).

What counts as a “health-related absence”?

A “health-related absence” includes when:

• You are personally sick or injured, or
• An immediate family member is sick or injured and you must care for them

This rule applies to all employees covered by BC’s Employment Standards Act, regardless of whether they work full-time or part-time.

What happens after your two short-term absences?

If you take more than two short-term sick leaves (five days or fewer) in a year, your employer can ask for reasonable proof of illness — such as a doctor’s note, medical certificate, or other documentation.

Your employer can’t demand your diagnosis. However, the note can confirm:

• The date you were seen by a medical professional
• The length of time you are expected to be away from work
• Whether you are fit to return

Do you have to pay for a doctor’s note in BC?

Yes — in many cases, you’ll have to pay out of pocket for a sick note if one is required.
The new rules help reduce this burden by preventing unnecessary notes that cost workers time and money for appointments, transportation, and childcare.

If your employer requests a note after your first two short-term absences, they are not legally required to cover the cost, unless your contract or policy says otherwise.

Can you get a doctor’s note online in BC?

Yes. Many telehealth and virtual care providers offer online doctor’s notes for minor illnesses, such as colds, stress-related absences, or mild injuries.

However, you should only use legitimate, licensed services and ensure that your employer will accept an electronic note.

If your doctor provides a note for stress leave in BC or a longer medical absence, you may also qualify for short-term disability or long term disability BC.

Can your employer penalize you for not providing a note?

No — not if your absence falls within the new two-absence limit.

If your employer disciplines, demotes, or fires you for taking legitimate sick leave, it may be considered wrongful dismissal or discrimination based on medical condition.

You may be entitled to severance pay in BC or human rights compensation. A full severance packages can be up to 24 months’ pay.

Key Takeaways for Employees

• Employers can’t ask for a sick note for the first two absences (up to five days each) per year
• After that, reasonable proof of illness may be required
• You may need to pay for a note yourself if one is requested
• If you’re disciplined or dismissed over sick leave, contact an employment lawyer immediately

Talk to a BC Employment Lawyer

If your employer is still demanding unnecessary sick notes, denying paid sick days, or threatening your job because of illness, you have rights.

At Samfiru Tumarkin LLP, we’ve helped over 50,000 employees across Canada enforce their workplace rights. Our BC employment lawyers can explain your options and help you get the compensation you deserve.

📞 Call 1-855-821-5900 or use our free consultation form today.