How Long Is a Sick Note Valid in Ontario?
A sick note in Ontario is valid for the specific dates stated on the document. There is no universal "expiry date" — the validity depends on what the physician wrote.
Key Rules About Sick Note Duration
The Note Covers Specific Dates
A sick note that says "unable to work from May 1-3" is valid only for those dates. If you need additional time off, you need a new note.
No Maximum Duration
There is no legal maximum for how long a sick note can cover. A physician can write a note for:
- 1 day
- 1 week
- 1 month
- Longer (for serious conditions)
The duration should be clinically appropriate for the condition.
Retroactive Notes
A physician can issue a note for dates that have already passed (retroactive). For example, if you were sick Monday-Wednesday but couldn't see a doctor until Thursday, the note can cover Monday-Wednesday.
MedLetter can issue retroactive notes for recent absences (typically within the past 7 days).
When Do You Need a New Sick Note?
You need a new note when:
1. Your absence extends beyond the dates on the original note
2. Your employer's policy requires periodic updates (e.g., weekly for extended absences)
3. You have a new, separate illness
4. Your return-to-work date changes
Can an Employer Require Ongoing Notes?
Yes, for extended absences, employers can reasonably request:
- Updated notes at regular intervals (weekly or bi-weekly)
- A return to work clearance note
- Functional abilities information for accommodation planning
However, these requests must be reasonable and not overly burdensome.
MedLetter for Follow-Up Notes
If you need an extension or follow-up note, MedLetter can provide:
- Extension notes for ongoing conditions
- Return-to-work clearance letters
- Updated documentation for extended absences
$49 per note | CPSO-registered physician | Within 6 hours
Ontario Employment Standards: Your Rights
Under Ontario's Employment Standards Act, 2000 (ESA), employees are entitled to 3 unpaid sick days per year (some employers offer paid days). Important provisions:
- Employers cannot require a doctor's note for ESA-protected sick days as of January 2024 (Working for Workers Act amendments)
- The Ontario Human Rights Code requires employers to accommodate medical conditions to the point of undue hardship
- Federally regulated employees in Ontario get 10 paid sick days under the Canada Labour Code
- Many Ontario employers still request notes as a matter of company policy (distinct from legal requirement)
Statistics: Healthcare Access in Ontario
According to Ontario Health and Statistics Canada (2025-2026):
- 2.3 million Ontarians lack a regular family doctor or nurse practitioner
- Average emergency room wait time in Ontario: over 4 hours for non-urgent cases
- Walk-in clinic wait times in the GTA: 1.5-3 hours on average
- Ontario has the lowest physician-to-population ratio of any large province
Practical Steps for Ontario Employees
1. Know the ESA - Your employer cannot penalize you for taking your 3 statutory sick days
2. Check your employment contract - Many Ontario employers offer 5-10 paid sick days beyond the ESA minimum
3. Unionized workers - OPSEU, CUPE, and Unifor contracts typically provide 12-18 paid sick days annually
4. Document everything - Keep a record of when you called in and who you spoke to
5. Accommodation requests - If you have a chronic condition, consider requesting formal workplace accommodation under the OHRC
When a Sick Note May Not Be Required
Under Ontario law, a sick note is generally not required for:
- Your 3 annual ESA sick days (Working for Workers Act, 2024)
- Family responsibility leave (up to 3 days)
- Bereavement leave (up to 2 days)
- Domestic or sexual violence leave
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 Ontario — Complete City Guide](/sick-note-ontario) | [Ontario Sick Note Cost 2026](/blog/ontario-sick-note-cost-2026)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a sick note online in Ontario?
Yes. CPSO-licensed physicians can assess patients through virtual consultations and issue legally valid sick notes accepted by all Ontario employers.
How much does an online sick note cost in Ontario?
MedLetter charges a flat $49 for a sick note with same-day delivery. This includes the physician assessment and official documentation.
Will my Ontario employer accept an online sick note?
Yes. The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario recognizes virtual care. Online sick notes are legally equivalent to in-person notes.
How long does it take to get a sick note from MedLetter?
Most sick notes are delivered within 2-6 hours of submission. Same-day delivery is standard.