Temporary Foreign Workers: Get a Sick Note in BC

As a temporary foreign worker in BC, your employment situation is precarious. Proper medical documentation protects your rights and your job.

Temporary foreign workers (TFWs) in BC are particularly vulnerable when sick. Many fear losing their work permit-tied employment, don't have family doctors, face language barriers, and work in industries (agriculture, food processing, hospitality) with strict attendance policies. Proper documentation is essential protection. MedLetter provides fast, legitimate documentation that protects your employment rights.

Challenges

• Fear of Job Loss: Your work permit is tied to your employer. Fear of termination makes many TFWs work while sick. Documentation protects you legally.
• Employer Pressure: Some employers pressure TFWs to work while sick. A physician's note creates a legal record that protects your rights.
• No Family Doctor: TFWs rarely have family doctors. Walk-in clinics in rural areas (where many TFWs work) are scarce or non-existent.
• Remote Work Locations: Many TFWs work on farms, in camps, or in remote communities far from any clinic. MedLetter works from anywhere with internet.
• Language Barriers: Explaining symptoms verbally in English is difficult. Our written form lets you communicate clearly.
• Don't Know Your Rights: Many TFWs don't know they have the SAME employment rights as Canadian workers. We'll inform you of your protections.

FAQ

Can my employer fire me for being sick?

No. BC law protects all workers, including TFWs, from termination for legitimate sick leave. Proper documentation provides evidence of legitimate absence.

Will this affect my work permit?

No. Taking legitimate sick leave with documentation does not affect your work permit status. It actually protects you by creating a paper trail.

I work on a farm far from any clinic, can I still use this?

Yes. MedLetter is 100% online. All you need is internet access. Submit from your phone wherever you are in BC.

My employer says I don't get sick days, is that true?

No. ALL employees in BC get 5 paid + 3 unpaid sick days per year under the Employment Standards Act, regardless of immigration status.