Sick Notes for International Workers in BC
If you're working in BC on a work permit (LMIA, IEC, PGWP, or other), you have the same employment rights as Canadian workers — including sick leave.
Your Rights Are the Same
Under BC's Employment Standards Act:
- 5 paid sick days per year (after 90 days of employment)
- 3 unpaid sick days per year
- Job protection during legitimate illness
- No discrimination based on immigration status
Common Concerns for International Workers
"Will taking sick leave affect my work permit?"
No. Using your legal sick leave entitlements does not affect your immigration status.
"Can my employer threaten my LMIA if I call in sick?"
No. This is illegal. Employers cannot use immigration status as leverage against workers exercising their rights.
"Do I need a Canadian doctor for my sick note?"
Yes. Your note should be from a physician licensed in BC (CPSBC-registered). MedLetter physicians are all CPSBC-registered.
Barriers International Workers Face
- No family doctor (MSP coverage may be limited)
- Language barriers at walk-in clinics
- Fear of employer retaliation
- Unfamiliarity with BC healthcare system
How MedLetter Helps
MedLetter provides sick notes from CPSBC-registered physicians with no clinic visit required. Our simple online form is accessible regardless of language barriers, and we provide documentation that meets all BC legal requirements.
What Employers Need to Know
Canadian employment law balances employer interests with employee privacy:
- Employers can request confirmation of illness but not specific diagnoses
- The note should state: dates of absence, that the employee was/is unfit for duties, and expected return date
- Employers cannot contact the physician directly without employee consent
- Requiring a note for every single-day absence may constitute harassment in some jurisdictions
Cost Considerations for Employers
- Walk-in clinic notes cost employees $20-50 and require 2-4 hours away from work
- Virtual sick notes reduce time away from work to minutes
- Some employers reimburse sick note costs as a best practice
- The cost of replacing a sick employee for a day far exceeds the cost of documentation
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.