I am on sick leave – what do I need to do?
5 tasks in suggested order
1. Contact a doctor. If they find that you are temporarily unfit for work, they will issue an e-ZLA and enter the address where you will stay during the sick leave.
When illness prevents you from working.
A doctor or an authorized medical entity.
Identification details, as well as information about insurance and the contribution payer.
The decision to grant sick leave rests with the doctor, not the employee or the employer.
Official source: ZUS
2. Inform your employer about your absence and its expected duration according to your employer's rules.
As soon as possible after the incapacity for work begins.
Your employer or HR department.
Information about the e-ZLA and any contact details required by the company.
An electronic sick note (e-ZLA) filed with ZUS does not always exempt you from the obligation to justify your absence to your employer.
Official source: ZUS
3. Check whether you are entitled to sick pay from your employer or a sickness allowance from ZUS for the period in question, and complete the required documents.
During the sick leave period and upon the payer's request.
The employer or ZUS, depending on the stage and the payer.
e-ZLA (electronic sick leave certificate), insurance details, bank account number, and forms required for your situation.
Sick pay and the sickness allowance are subject to different rules and timeframes.
Official source: ZUS
4. Use the sick leave for its intended purpose and stay at the address stated in the e-ZLA. If you change your place of stay during the leave, inform your employer and ZUS.
Throughout the sick-leave period. Report a change of stay address to your employer and ZUS within 3 days of the change.
At the address indicated for the sick leave; report any change through the proper procedure.
Current address and medical records.
Improper use of sick leave may result in the loss of benefits and employment-related consequences.
Official source: ZUS
5. Confirm your return with the employer after the sick leave ends; undergo follow-up medical examinations after a prolonged illness, if required.
Before the first day of return or as directed by the employer.
The employer and occupational health services.
Information regarding the end of the sick leave and a referral for medical examinations, if applicable.
Do not return to work while on sick leave or without the required fitness for work.
Official source: ZUS
