Short answer: it is not sick leave; it falls under family responsibility leave
Paid sick leave under BC's Employment Standards Act is for the employee's own illness or injury. When a child is sick or a family member needs care, the relevant entitlement is family responsibility leave: up to 5 days a year, unpaid, but protected, so an employer cannot dismiss an employee for taking it. [2]
Your own illness: 5 paid days plus 3 unpaid days
Employees get 5 paid sick days a year, plus 3 unpaid days, once they have worked 90 days. Part-time and casual workers are covered too. [1]
Sick notes: when an employer can ask
Under the rules the province announced in November 2025, an employer cannot require a medical note for the first two sick absences in a year if each lasts 5 consecutive days or fewer. A note from other licensed health professionals cannot be demanded either. From the third absence, or for a single absence longer than 5 consecutive days, the employer may ask for one. [3]
Longer leaves for a seriously ill family member
| Leave | Length | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Family responsibility leave | Up to 5 days a year | Unpaid; care of a child or other family member |
| Compassionate care leave | Up to 27 weeks | Family member at significant risk of death; medical certificate |
| Critical illness leave (child) | Up to 36 weeks | Medical certificate required |
| Critical illness leave (adult family member) | Up to 16 weeks | Medical certificate required |
These leaves are unpaid by the employer. Some may be paired with a separate federal EI benefit; check Service Canada for the conditions. [2]
Leaves related to having a child
BC pregnancy leave is 17 weeks and parental leave is up to 62 weeks, up to 78 weeks combined. Both are unpaid by the employer, and EI is applied for separately. [2]
Who these rules do not cover
- Employees in federally regulated industries such as banking, airlines and telecommunications are governed by federal law, not BC's Employment Standards Act.
- Self-employed people and independent contractors are outside these protections.