Canada's Sick Note Rules Are Changing - Province by Province
In 2025 and 2026, multiple Canadian provinces have dramatically changed their sick note requirements. Some have outright banned employers from requesting sick notes for short absences. Here's what's happening across Canada and how it affects Alberta workers.
What Changed in 2025-2026
#### British Columbia (November 2025)
BC became the most aggressive province on sick note reform. As of November 12, 2025, employers cannot request a sick note for a worker's first two health-related absences of five or fewer consecutive days per year. This effectively eliminates sick notes for most short-term illnesses.
#### Federal Workplaces (January 2026)
Federally regulated employees (banks, airlines, telecommunications, interprovincial transport) can only be asked for a sick note if they've been absent for at least five consecutive days. The request must be made in writing.
#### Nova Scotia (2025)
Nova Scotia introduced similar restrictions, limiting when employers can demand medical certificates for short absences.
#### Ontario
Ontario already prohibits employers from requiring a sick note for the first three days of an employee's entitlement to sick leave under the Employment Standards Act.
Where Does Alberta Stand?
Alberta has not banned sick note requests. Under current Alberta Employment Standards:
- Employers can include sick note requirements in workplace policies
- There is no minimum absence threshold before a note can be requested
- The request must be "reasonable" and consistently applied
- Employers typically request notes for absences of 3+ consecutive days
- Some Alberta employers still require notes for 1-day absences (this is legal)
Bottom line: If your Alberta employer asks for a sick note, you likely need to provide one. Unlike BC or federal workers, Alberta employees don't have legislative protection against sick note requests for short absences.
Why This Matters for Alberta Workers
The national trend is moving away from sick notes for short absences. Medical associations across Canada (including the CMA) have advocated against routine sick notes, calling them a waste of healthcare resources. However, until Alberta changes its legislation, employers here can still require them.
This creates a practical problem: Alberta's walk-in clinics are overwhelmed, family doctor shortages are severe, and getting a sick note for a 1-2 day absence can mean a 3+ hour wait at a clinic - when you're already sick.
The MedLetter Solution
MedLetter exists specifically for this gap. When your Alberta employer requires a sick note but you can't access a clinic:
- $49 flat fee - no surprise billing
- Same day delivery - most notes same day
- CPSA-registered physician - legally valid in Alberta
- Online review required - complete a 5-minute form from your phone
- Available 24/7 - including weekends and holidays
Will Alberta Change Its Rules?
There's growing pressure on Alberta to follow BC's lead. The Alberta Medical Association has expressed support for reducing unnecessary sick note requirements. However, no legislation is currently pending.
Until the law changes, Alberta workers who need a sick note have two options: wait 3+ hours at a walk-in clinic, or get one online through MedLetter in minutes.
Key Takeaways
| Province | Can employer request sick note for 1-2 day absence? | Minimum days before note required |
|----------|-----------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------|
| Alberta | Yes (if in policy) | No minimum |
| BC | No (first 2 absences/year) | 5+ days |
| Ontario | No (first 3 days of ESA entitlement) | 3+ days |
| Federal | No | 5+ consecutive days |
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Related: [Calgary Sick Note](/sick-note/calgary) | [Edmonton Sick Note](/sick-note/edmonton) | [Banff Sick Note](/sick-note/banff) | [All Services](/services)
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Medically reviewed by a Licensed Alberta Physician, CPSA-Registered
Last reviewed: May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a sick note online in Canada?
Yes. Licensed Canadian physicians can assess patients through virtual consultations and issue legally valid sick notes accepted by employers across all provinces.
How much does an online sick note cost?
MedLetter charges a flat $49 for a sick note with same-day delivery. No hidden fees, no clinic wait times.
Will my employer accept an online sick note?
Yes. All Canadian provincial medical colleges recognize 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.