When you’re unwell and unable to work, a sick cert (medical certificate) is often needed to prove that you’re medically unfit for work.
But what happens when the original sick cert period ends and you’re still not feeling well enough to return to work?
In Ireland, many people need to extend or renew their sick cert through their GP or an approved online medical service.
This guide explains the step-by-step process of how to extend a sick cert in Ireland and provides some helpful tips so you don’t accidentally end up with gaps in your medical documentation.
What Does “Extending a Sick Cert” Mean?
Extending a sick cert simply means requesting additional medical certification because your current period of illness is continuing beyond the original end date.
Instead of returning to work, you obtain another cert from your GP, to show that you’re still unfit to work.
Extending your sick cert ensures your medical documentation stays continuous and valid.
When You May Need to Extend a Sick Cert?
You might need to extend your sick cert if:
- Your symptoms have not improved
- Recovery is taking longer than expected
- Your treatment plan has changed (referrals, medication changes, rest period)
- You are awaiting tests, results, or specialist care
- Returning to work would worsen your condition
How to Extend a Sick Cert in Ireland: Step-By-Step Guide
1. Check the End Date of Your Current Certificate
Many people forget to check the exact expiry date on their sick note. Try to review your cert a few days before it runs out so you have time to contact your GP.
Tip:
Set a reminder on your mobile phone to avoid gaps in your medical certification, especially if you’re receiving Illness Benefit.
2. Contact Your GP Practice Before it Expires
You can use phone, email, or online patient portal (if offered) to explain that you need your sick cert renewed.
Some GP practices may issue an extension remotely, while others may request an appointment or review.
Be ready to share:
- The original sick cert details
- Your current symptoms
- Whether anything has changed (improved or worsened)
- Any medication or hospital visit updates
Need a Faster Option?
At Sicknote.com you can get an online sick cert (sick note) after consultation and approval from an IMC registered doctor, valid in Ireland and many EU countries.
This is particularly useful if your regular GP is unavailable or you need quick documentation.
3. Attend a Medical Review (If Required)
Your GP may want to review your condition in-person or via telehealth before issuing another cert, especially if your illness is ongoing, long-term, or complex.
During the review, discuss:
- Your symptoms and daily limitations
- Any work-related factors (stress at workplace, physical tasks, hours, travel)
- Whether a phased or an alternative return-to-work option is available
Some GP practices may only issue short-term certs without appointments, but require a consultation for extensions beyond a certain duration. This depends on the clinic’s policy and your medical history.
4. Receive Your Extended Sick Cert
Once your GP decides an extension is appropriate, they will issue a new cert for a specified number of days or weeks.
Double check the dates and ensure the certificate clearly states the new period of unfitness for work.
5. Send the Updated Sick Cert to Your Employer or Relevant Department
Submit your renewed certificate as soon as possible to avoid confusion or unpaid days.
Many workplaces accept scanned or photographed certificates, but always follow your company’s policy.
If you’re on Illness Benefit, ensure the updated cert is also submitted to or recorded by the Department of Social Protection (DSP), depending on the method used.
Extending Your Sick Cert When You’re on Illness Benefit
If you’re on Illness Benefit, you only need to apply once for each illness period. After your initial application is accepted, you do not have to submit a new application every time your sick cert is extended.
Instead, you simply continue sending medical certificates to show you’re still unfit for work.
Why Do Continuous Certs Matter?
The Department of Social Protection (DSP) needs continuous certification to keep your Illness Benefit payments active.
If there is a gap (even one day), your payment may be delayed, paused, or stopped until a new cert is received.
Practical Tip:
Check your MyWelfare account to ensure each new certificate has been recorded correctly. If it isn’t showing, contact your GP or the DSP.
Can You Extend Your Sick Cert Without an Appointment?
In some cases, yes. Especially if your GP already has recent notes and your illness is part of an ongoing documented condition.
However, each clinic or online service has its own process, and medical professionals decide whether a review is needed.
How Long Can You Continue Extending?
There is no universal time limit, but extensions must be medically justified.
For long-term illnesses, many GP practices will issue extensions in blocks (for example, 2–4 weeks at a time) and ask you to attend regular reviews before renewing again.
For long-term illnesses, you may be:
- Referred to occupational health
- Asked to attend specialist treatment
- Reviewed for alternative workplace adjustments
- Directed towards long-term support or disability-related benefits
Learn more about long-term sick leave in Ireland.
Tips to Avoid Delays or Problems
- Contact your GP before your sick cert expires
- Before you contact your GP or online doctor, have this ready: PPS number, employer details, current symptoms, medications, hospital letters.
- Keep detailed records and copies
- Understand your employer’s sick leave policy (Learn more about sick notes and workplace policies)
- Ask about partial or phased return options
- Prioritise follow-up appointments when recommended
- Be honest and accurate about your symptoms
When to Seek Help
If you’re unsure, it’s always best to ask for help.
Contact your GP, public health service, or Citizens Information for further guidance and support, if:
- Your employer disputes your extended cert
- You feel pressured to return while unwell
- Your illness becomes long-term
- You may need disability or workplace accommodation support
Yes, if you recover earlier, you can return. But it’s best to confirm with your GP and employer policies.
They may request clarification or independent assessment in certain circumstances, but they can’t simply override a valid doctor’s sick cert.
If it’s a continuation of the same illness you generally do not need a new application. But you must keep your certification continuous.
Yes, online service with IMC-registered doctors can issue new or extended sick certs, after a digital consultation, provided your condition meets the criteria.
Quick Summary
- Check your sick cert expiry a few days before it ends
- Contact your GP early to request an extension
- Be ready to update them on symptoms, treatment, and test results
- Some extensions require a medical review, your GP will advise
- Review the new cert’s dates and send it promptly to your employer (or DSP if you’re claiming Illness Benefit)
- Keep copies, know your workplace policy, and seek help if your cert is disputed or your condition is long-term
Disclaimer: This blog provides general information only and is not medical or legal advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalised guidance.
