How to get a sick leave (L4) in Poland: Step-by-step instructions
A sick leave certificate (L4) is an official document confirming an employee’s temporary inability to work due to illness or other medical circumstances. In Poland, this document is required to apply for sick leave and receive sick pay. If you work in Poland, this article will help you understand how to apply for an L4 sick leave.
What is an L4 sick leave in Poland?
A sick leave certificate (officially called Zwolnienie lekarskie, or L4) is issued by a doctor and serves as a confirmation of an employee’s temporary disability. This document is the basis for:
- Exemption from work for the period of illness.
- Receiving financial compensation during the period of illness.
The L4 has an electronic form (e-ZLA), which is automatically sent to the employer through the ZUS (Zakład Ubezpieczeń Społecznych) system.
Steps to obtain an L4 sick leave
1. Make an appointment with a doctor
If you are experiencing symptoms of illness or need to be released from work for medical reasons, see a doctor. To do this, you can
- Visit a general practitioner (family doctor).
- See a specialist if it is related to a specific problem (e.g., an injury).
Tip: In case of an acute illness, you can make an urgent appointment for the same day.
2. Bring the necessary documents with you
Take to the doctor’s appointment:
- Passport or residence card.
- PESEL (personal identification number).
- Employer’sNIP number (may be required to fill in the document).
3. Undergo a medical examination
The doctor will examine you and decide whether there are grounds for issuing a sick leave. If your illness or condition makes it impossible to work, the doctor will issue an e-ZLA.
Duration of the sick leave:
- Depends on the nature of the illness or injury.
- The maximum period for receiving benefits is 182 days (or 270 days in the case of pregnancy or treatment of a serious illness).
4. Notify your employer
Although the e-ZLA is automatically sent to your employer via the ZUS system, you are advised to additionally notify your manager of your absence from work. This can be done by phone, e-mail or via the company’s internal system.
5. Check the status of your sick leave in ZUS
You can check the status of your sick leave via the PUE ZUS (Płatności Ubezpieczeń Elektronicznych) platform. This will help you avoid misunderstandings with your employer or ZUS.
How is L4 sick leave paid in Poland?
The financial assistance during your sickness depends on the duration of your sick leave and your employee status:
Who pays?
- The first 33 days of sick leave (or 14 days for people over 50):
- Paid by the employer.
- After the 33rd day (or 14 days for older employees):
- The payments are made by ZUS.
Amount of payments
- 80% of the average salary: In most cases.
- 100% of average earnings: If the sick leave is related to pregnancy, an accident at work or the need to care for a child.
Can I apply for L4 through a private doctor?
Yes, if the private clinic or doctor has the appropriate license and access to the ZUS system. In this case, the e-ZLA is also sent to the employer via the electronic system.
What should I do if the employer has not received the e-ZLA?
- Check the correctness of the data entered when applying for sick leave.
- Contact your doctor or ZUS to resolve the issue.
- If necessary, submit a paper copy of the sick leave to your employer.
Can they check the authenticity of the sick leave?
Yes, ZUS has the right to verify the accuracy of the information provided in L4. If false information is found, the employee may lose benefits and, in some cases, be held liable.
Tips for employees
- Do not delay making an appointment with a doctor: A sick leave is issued only for the period determined by the doctor, so do not postpone your visit.
- Keep in touch with your employer: Report your incapacity for work, even if the e-ZLA has already been sent.
- Use the ZUS platform: It is convenient for checking the status of your sick leave and receiving information about payments.
Obtaining a sick leave certificate (L4) in Poland is a fairly simple process if you know the basic steps and rules. It allows employees not only to restore their health without the risk of losing their jobs, but also to receive financial support during their illness. The main thing is to comply with all the requirements, visit a doctor in a timely manner and inform your employer about your situation.
