Sick Leave Not Approved or Salary Withheld: What to Do
While sick leave is a protected entitlement under Saudi labor law, employees occasionally face situations where an employer disputes a medical certificate, delays approval, or withholds the pay tier the employee believes they are entitled to. This guide explains how to handle these situations.
Common Sick Leave Disputes
- Employer questioning the validity or authenticity of a medical certificate
- Disagreement over which pay tier applies based on cumulative sick leave taken during the year
- Delayed processing of sick leave pay alongside regular payroll
- Employer treating a legitimate sick leave absence as unauthorized
Step 1: Confirm Your Documentation Is Complete
Ensure your medical certificate comes from an authorized healthcare provider and includes all necessary details, such as the diagnosis period and recommended rest duration, since incomplete documentation is a common reason employers raise concerns about a sick leave claim.
Step 2: Clarify the Pay Tier Calculation
If there is disagreement about how much you should be paid during your sick leave, request a clear breakdown from HR showing how your cumulative sick leave for the year has been calculated and which pay tier applies to your specific absence.
Step 3: Raise the Issue in Writing
If your employer is disputing your sick leave or withholding pay you believe you are owed, submit a written request for clarification and resolution, referencing your medical documentation and the relevant labor law provisions.
Step 4: Request Medical Committee Review if Needed
In cases where an employer genuinely disputes the validity of a medical certificate, referring the matter to an authorized medical committee for independent review can help resolve the disagreement objectively.
Step 5: File a Labor Complaint
If the dispute remains unresolved after direct communication, filing a formal complaint through the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development provides a structured path to resolution, using your documentation as supporting evidence.
Protecting Yourself During Sick Leave
- Always obtain proper medical certification promptly when taking sick leave.
- Keep copies of all medical documentation and correspondence with your employer.
- Track your cumulative sick leave days used during the year for your own reference.
Related Guides
- Sick Leave Rules in Saudi Arabia: How Pay and Duration Work
- How to File a Labor Complaint in Saudi Arabia: Step-by-Step Guide
- Browse all Employment guides
Conclusion
Disputes over sick leave approval or pay are usually resolvable through clear documentation and direct communication, escalating to a formal labor complaint only if necessary. Keeping thorough medical records throughout your employment gives you the strongest foundation for resolving any disagreement quickly and fairly.