British Columbia Enforces New Sick Leave Rules for Employees

On November 12, 2025, the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia enacted significant amendments to the province’s Employment Standards Act Regulation, which immediately prohibits employers from requiring a sick note for a worker’s first two short-term health-related absences of five consecutive days or fewer within a calendar year. This change aims to ease the burden on employees when taking necessary sick leave.

Under the amended regulation, while employers can no longer demand a sick note for short absences, they still retain the right to request “reasonably sufficient proof” of an employee’s need for leave. Acceptable forms of proof may include a pharmacy receipt, a medical identification bracelet, or a signed attestation from the employee confirming their illness.

Key Changes to Sick Leave Policy

The existing framework within the Employment Standards Act entitles employees in British Columbia to five paid and three unpaid sick days after ninety days of employment. The recent amendment specifically narrows the circumstances under which a sick note from a physician may be requested. Employers may still demand such documentation if an employee’s leave exceeds five consecutive days or if they have already taken two short-term health-related absences during the same calendar year.

Even in situations where a sick note request is permissible, employers may still need to consider the context. For example, if an employee misses just one day due to stomach cramps, insisting on a sick note may be deemed unreasonable. Conversely, a pattern of absences around long weekends could justify a request for additional documentation.

The change reflects a growing recognition of the importance of employee well-being and the need for flexibility in health-related matters.

Impact on Employers and Employees

Employers in British Columbia must adapt to these new regulations, balancing their responsibility to manage attendance with the need to support employee health. The amendment reduces the administrative burden on workers, making it easier for them to take necessary time off without the added stress of procuring a doctor’s note for short absences.

This shift also highlights the ongoing dialogue surrounding workplace health policies, particularly as organizations strive to create supportive environments for their employees. As the landscape of work continues to evolve, such regulations may play a crucial role in fostering a healthier workforce.

Overall, the recent amendments to sick leave policies in British Columbia mark a significant step toward a more employee-centric approach, ensuring that workers can prioritize their health without facing unnecessary obstacles.