BC has some of Canada's strongest sick leave protections. 5 paid sick days, no sick note required. Here's what you need to know about your legal rights.
For the first 5 paid sick days per year, employers CANNOT require a sick note under BC's Employment Standards Act. For absences beyond these protected days, employers may request documentation.
All BC employees are entitled to 5 paid sick days and 3 unpaid sick days per year under the Employment Standards Act.
If you haven't used your 5 paid sick days, your employer cannot legally require a note. You can file a complaint with the BC Employment Standards Branch.
No. BC law protects employees from termination for taking job-protected sick leave. Firing someone for using their sick days is considered a reprisal.
Yes. All BC employees, full-time, part-time, temporary, and casual, are entitled to the same sick leave protections.
Yes. MedLetter does not require a family doctor or referral. Our CPSBC-registered physicians can issue documentation directly based on your intake form. This is critical in BC where over 900,000 residents lack a GP.
Under BC Employment Standards Act, employers cannot reject a valid medical note solely because it was issued via telehealth. The CPSBC confirms virtual consultations carry the same weight as in-person visits. Direct your employer to the CPSBC registration number on the note.
Yes. BC universities including UBC, SFU, UVic, and BCIT accept medical documentation from CPSBC-registered physicians for exam deferrals and academic accommodations. Submit your note through your university registrar.
BC walk-in clinics charge $30-$75 and require 2-5 hours of waiting. MedLetter charges $49 flat with same-day delivery from home. You save hours of waiting and avoid losing additional work time. Available 7 days a week.