How long is sick leave in Belgium?

In Belgium, the duration and compensation for sick leave vary based on the classification of the employee:

White-collar employees:

• White-collar employees are entitled to take up to 30 days of sick leave at 100% pay.

Blue-collar employees:

• For the first 7 days of sick leave, blue-collar employees who have worked for their employer for at least 30 days prior to an illness or injury receive 100% of their normal salary.
• From the 8th to the 14th day of sick leave, they receive 85.88% of their normal salary.
• From the 15th to the 30th day of sick leave, the benefits are calculated based on the salary and the limits applied to health insurance benefits.

If an employee, regardless of classification, returns to work and experiences a relapse within 14 days, they are not entitled to an additional period of sick leave benefits. However, if the employee suffers a new illness or injury within 14 days of returning to work, additional sick leave benefits are available.

What is the process for applying for sick leave in Belgium?

In Belgium, the process for applying for sick leave involves several steps:

• A medical certificate from a doctor is required for all sick leave days.
• The medical certificate must be sent to the employer within 24 hours.
• The employer must be notified of the sick leave the same morning.
• Doctor appointments typically occur in the afternoon on the same day.