Sick Notes for International Workers in Ontario (Work Permits & LMIA)
On a work permit in Ontario? You have the same sick leave rights as Canadian workers. Here's what you need to know.
## Sick Notes for International Workers in Ontario
If you're working in Ontario 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 Ontario's ESA:
- **3 unpaid sick days** per year (from day one)
- **No medical note required** for ESA sick days
- **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. Report this to the Ministry of Labour.
**"Do I need an Ontario doctor for my sick note?"**
Yes. Your note should be from a physician licensed in Ontario (CPSO-registered). MedLetter physicians are all CPSO-registered.
### Barriers International Workers Face
- No family doctor (OHIP coverage may have a waiting period)
- Language barriers at walk-in clinics
- Fear of employer retaliation
- Unfamiliarity with Ontario's healthcare system
### How MedLetter Helps
MedLetter provides sick notes from CPSO-registered physicians with no clinic visit required. Our simple online form is accessible regardless of language barriers.
**Get a sick note — [Start here](/get-started/sick_note)**