Ontario Employment Standards: Sick Leave Rights in 2025
Ontario's Employment Standards Act provides 3 unpaid sick days per year. Understand your full rights and when employers can request documentation.
## Ontario Sick Leave Laws in 2025
Ontario's Employment Standards Act provides job-protected sick leave for all employees.
## Unpaid Sick Days in Ontario
Ontario employees are entitled to 3 unpaid sick days per year. Unlike BC (5 paid) or federally regulated workplaces, Ontario does not mandate paid sick days for provincially regulated employees.
## Documentation Requirements
Employers can request proof of illness, but:
- Cannot require disclosure of specific diagnosis
- Cannot require documentation for 1-day absences (generally)
- Must accept notes from any licensed physician
## Employer Retaliation Is Illegal
Ontario law prohibits employers from penalizing employees for taking legitimate sick leave — including termination, demotion, or reduced hours.
## Many Employers Offer More
While the ESA minimum is 3 unpaid days, many Ontario employers offer paid sick days through employment contracts or benefits packages.
## Getting Your Documentation
MedLetter provides same-day documentation from CPSO-registered physicians for $49.