If you’re an employee in Ireland who’s fallen ill, understanding sick leave certificates and your rights under Irish employment law is crucial. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know in 2026.
Understanding Sick Leave Certificates in Ireland
A sick leave certificate is an official document from a registered medical practitioner confirming you’re unfit for work. Required by employers after certain periods of absence.
Legal Requirements
- Self-Certification: First 2 consecutive days
- Medical Certificate: From day 3 onwards
- Statutory Sick Pay: Entitled with proper certification
- 2026 Entitlement: 10 days per year at 70% wages
Ireland’s Sick Leave Legislation 2026
| Year | Days | Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 3 | 70% (€110 max/day) |
| 2024 | 5 | 70% (€110 max/day) |
| 2025 | 7 | 70% (€110 max/day) |
| 2026 | 10 | 70% (€110 max/day) |
How to Get a Sick Leave Certificate
Option 1: Traditional GP
- Cost: €50-€70
- Wait: 3-14 days
- Time: Half day
Option 2: Online Certificate (Recommended)
- Cost: €34.99
- Wait: 1-2 hours
- Time: 10 minutes
Get Your Certificate in 2 Hours – €34.99
✓ Irish-registered doctors
✓ Valid for statutory sick pay
✓ Accepted by all employers
Required Information on Certificates
- Doctor’s name and IMC registration
- Patient details
- Date of issue
- Period of incapacity
- Medical opinion
- Doctor’s signature
Employee Rights
- 10 days statutory sick pay by 2026
- Protection from unfair dismissal
- Privacy regarding diagnosis
- Choice of medical practitioner
Cost Comparison
| Method | Total Cost | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Private GP | €180+ | Half day |
| Online | €34.99 | 10 min |
FAQs
Can I get a certificate for 1 day?
Self-certify for 1-2 days. Certificate required from day 3.
Are online certificates legal?
Yes, fully legal and valid from Irish-registered doctors.
Can certificates be backdated?
No, medical ethics prohibit backdating.
Save €145+ Per Certificate
✓ 2 hour delivery
✓ Valid for statutory sick pay
✓ Only €34.99