BC's Employment Standards Act provides 5 paid sick days and 3 unpaid sick days per year. For the paid days, employers generally cannot require a doctor's note. However, they can request 'reasonably sufficient proof' for extended absences.
British Columbia provides one of Canada's most generous sick leave frameworks. After 90 days of employment, BC workers receive 5 paid sick days and 3 unpaid sick days per year. The BC government has stated that employers should not routinely require doctor's notes for these days.
BC's Employment Standards Branch has indicated that employers can request 'reasonably sufficient proof' of illness, but this should not be a routine requirement for short absences. Situations where a note may be requested:
BC has one of Canada's worst doctor shortages. The government explicitly discourages employers from requiring sick notes for short absences because it puts unnecessary strain on an already overwhelmed healthcare system. This is a practical consideration that works in employees' favour.
Many BC employers, especially in Vancouver, Victoria, and the Lower Mainland, have policies that go beyond the ESA minimums. Tech companies often offer unlimited sick days. Unionized workplaces may have 10-15 paid sick days with specific documentation thresholds.
If you're unsure whether your employer will accept your absence without documentation, a $49 sick note from MedLetter provides protection. Especially useful if you're new to a job, have had attendance discussions, or are taking 3+ consecutive days off.