BC Employer Guide: Creating a Fair Sick Note Policy (2026)

BC employers need to balance documentation needs with employee rights. Here's how to create a policy that's both fair and legally compliant.

BC Employer Guide: Creating a Fair Sick Note Policy

As a BC employer, you need documentation policies that protect your business while respecting employee rights under the Employment Standards Act and Human Rights Code.

What BC Law Says

You CANNOT:

  • Require a note for the first 5 paid sick days (ESA entitlement)

  • Ask for a specific diagnosis

  • Contact an employee's doctor without consent

  • Penalize employees for using their legal sick day entitlements

  • Require employees to find their own replacement


You CAN:
  • Request a note after 3+ consecutive days (if in your policy)

  • Ask for confirmation of inability to work

  • Request an estimated return date

  • Require a fitness-to-return note for safety-sensitive roles


Best Practices for 2026

1. Accept online/virtual sick notes — The College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC recognizes virtual care as legitimate
2. Don't make it harder than necessary — Requiring in-person notes when employees are sick is counterproductive
3. Be consistent — Apply your policy equally to all employees
4. Document your policy — Put it in writing and ensure all employees have access

Should You Accept MedLetter Notes?

Yes. MedLetter notes are issued by CPSBC-registered physicians following a clinical assessment. They are legally equivalent to notes from any other licensed physician in BC.

Cost Considerations

Many BC employers now reimburse sick note costs or accept free alternatives. Consider:

  • Reimbursing the $49 MedLetter fee as a business expense

  • Reducing your note requirements to reduce costs for both parties

  • Accepting employee self-declarations for short absences


Learn more about MedLetter for employers — [Contact us](/contact)

University and College Sick Note Policies

Most Canadian post-secondary institutions require medical documentation for:

  • Missed midterms or final exams (exam deferral)

  • Late assignment submissions (academic consideration)

  • Extended absences from labs or tutorials

  • Withdrawal after the deadline (medical withdrawal)


Important Timelines

  • Most universities require documentation within 3-5 business days of the missed assessment

  • Some institutions accept documentation dated up to 24 hours after the absence

  • Medical withdrawal applications typically have a 2-week window

  • Always check your specific institution's academic calendar for deadlines


Tips for Students

1. Read your institution's policy - Each university has specific forms and requirements
2. Contact your registrar early - Don't wait until grades are posted
3. Keep copies - Always keep a copy of any medical documentation you submit
4. Academic advisors - They can help navigate the process and advocate on your behalf

Related: [Sick Note Vancouver](/online-sick-note-vancouver) | [Sick Note Surrey](/online-sick-note-surrey) | [Online Sick Note BC](/online-sick-note-bc)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a sick note online in British Columbia?
Yes. CPSBC-licensed physicians can assess patients through virtual consultations and issue legally valid sick notes accepted by all BC employers.

How much does an online sick note cost in BC?
MedLetter charges a flat $49 for a sick note with same-day delivery. This is often faster and more affordable than visiting a walk-in clinic.

Will my BC employer accept an online sick note?
Yes. The College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC recognizes virtual care. Online sick notes are legally equivalent to in-person notes.

How many paid sick days do I get in BC?
BC employees are entitled to 5 paid sick days per year after 90 days of employment, plus 3 additional unpaid sick days.