How Many Sick Days Are You Entitled to in Ontario?

Ontario\'s Employment Standards Act, 2000 (ESA) provides minimum sick leave entitlements for most employees. Understanding your rights prevents misunderstandings with your employer. Under the ESA, most Ontario employees are entitled to 3 unpaid sick days per calendar year (called \"sick leave\" or \"personal illness days\"). These days can be used for personal illness, injury, or medical emergency. Key details: you must have been employed for at least 2 consecutive weeks to qualify. Your employer may request evidence \"reasonable in the circumstances\" but cannot require a medical certificate for absences of 3 days or fewer. The ESA sets the minimum - your employment contract, collective agreement, or company policy may provide more than 3 days. Some employers offer paid sick days voluntarily or through benefits programs. The number of paid days varies by employer and is not mandated by the ESA for most private-sector workers. Federally regulated employees (banks, telecoms, airlines, etc.) are covered by the Canada Labour Code, which provides 10 personal leave days per year, with the first 3 paid after 30 days of employment. If you believe your employer has violated your sick leave rights, you can file a complaint with the Ontario Ministry of Labour. The ministry investigates ESA violations at no cost. *This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.*

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Content reviewed by licensed Canadian physicians. Last updated February 2026.