British Columbia employers can no longer ask workers for sick notes for their first two short-term health absences each year under new employment standards rules that took effect Nov. 12.
The regulation change prohibits employers from requesting medical documentation for a worker’s first two health-related absences of five consecutive days or fewer in a calendar year. The restriction applies to all employees covered by the province’s Employment Standards Act.
“When you’re sick with the flu, or your child comes down with a cold, the last thing you should have to do is go to your doctor or a medical clinic to get a piece of paper saying you’re sick,” said Jennifer Whiteside, minister of labour.
Healthcare system impact
The changes target unnecessary administrative burdens on the healthcare system, according to the government. Health-care providers told the province that scientific evidence shows most minor adult illnesses such as colds and influenza resolve within five days.
The Canadian Medical Association estimates BC doctors wrote approximately 1.6 million sick notes in 2024. Removing unnecessary sick note requirements allows physicians, nurse practitioners, pharmacists and other healthcare professionals to focus on patient care rather than paperwork, according to the province.
Minimum standard across BC
The new regulation sets a minimum standard across the province. Health-related absences under the rule include when an employee or a member of their immediate family is ill or injured.
The restriction also removes the burden from workers of extra time and costs associated with obtaining medical notes, including transportation and child care expenses.
Medical community response
Dr. Katherine Bell, president of the BC College of Family Physicians, said family doctors spend hours daily on unnecessary administrative tasks.
“What’s really exciting is how the provincial government is listening to our community-based family physicians and putting the solutions we know will make a difference into action,” said Bell.
Dr. Lisa Gaede, a family physician and Doctors of BC representative on the Administration Burdens Working Group, said sick notes for short-term illness create enormous burdens on primary care providers.
“Setting limits on employers who require these notes means that someone with a cold can stay home from work and rest, and I can be more available for patients who need my help,” said Gaede.
Other jurisdictions
As of early November 2025, several other Canadian jurisdictions have similar restrictions in place: Saskatchewan, Ontario, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Northwest Territories and the federal government.
The Canadian Medical Association and Doctors of BC called for elimination of sick-note requirements for short-term absences in 2024.
