How to Get a Medical Leave Certificate in Saudi Arabia
A medical leave certificate is the official documentation issued by a healthcare provider confirming that a patient requires time off work to recover from an illness or medical procedure. This guide explains how to obtain a valid medical leave certificate and how it connects to your workplace sick leave process.
What a Medical Leave Certificate Confirms
A properly issued medical leave certificate documents the diagnosis category, the recommended rest period, and the treating physician’s authorization, forming the official basis for an employee’s sick leave request with their employer.
Step-by-Step: How to Get a Medical Leave Certificate
- Visit an authorized healthcare provider, whether a government hospital, private clinic, or telemedicine service recognized for issuing official certificates.
- Explain your symptoms and undergo any necessary examination for the physician to assess your condition.
- Request a formal medical leave certificate if the physician determines rest is medically necessary.
- Receive the certificate, either as a physical document or, increasingly, as a digital record accessible through Sehhaty.
- Submit the certificate to your employer according to their required notification procedure.
Digital Medical Leave Certificates Through Sehhaty
Many healthcare providers now issue digital medical leave certificates directly through Sehhaty, allowing employees to access and share their certificate electronically with their employer without needing a physical paper copy.
What Information the Certificate Should Include
- The date of examination and the treating physician’s details
- The recommended rest period, specifying start and end dates
- Confirmation that the patient requires leave from work duties
- An official stamp, signature, or digital verification code from the issuing facility
Using Your Certificate With Your Employer
Once obtained, submitting your medical leave certificate promptly to your HR department, following your company’s specific notification procedure, ensures your sick leave is properly recorded and processed according to labor law requirements.
What If You Need an Extended Medical Leave
For illnesses requiring an extended recovery period, your physician may issue an extension certificate or refer you to a medical committee for further evaluation, particularly if the leave period approaches the maximum allowed under standard sick leave provisions.
Related Guides
- Medical Leave Certificate Disputed or Rejected: What to Do
- Sick Leave Rules in Saudi Arabia: How Pay and Duration Work
- Browse all Healthcare guides
Conclusion
Obtaining a proper medical leave certificate from an authorized healthcare provider, whether in person or through digital services on Sehhaty, is the essential first step in formalizing your sick leave with your employer. Submitting this documentation promptly ensures your leave is processed smoothly under labor law protections.