Being sick is already stressful, the last thing you want is to drag yourself to a GP clinic and wait for hours just to get a sick cert.
Thankfully, getting an online sick note in Ireland has become incredibly straightforward. Whether you’re down with a flu, stomach bug, migraine, or simply can’t make it to the clinic, online GP services now offer fast, legitimate, doctor-issued sick notes, straight to your inbox.
Here’s a practical guide to help you understand how online sick notes work, when you need one, and how to get one quickly and safely.
What is an Online Sick Note?
An online sick note (or a digital sick cert) is a medical certificate issued by a registered doctor following an online consultation or assessment.
A legitimate online sick note generally performs the exact same function as the traditional paper sick cert.
A valid Irish sick note must include:
- Your name and date of assessment
- A general reason you’re medically unfit for work (no detailed diagnosis needed)
- The recommended duration of time off
- The doctor’s name, IMC registration number, and digital signature or stamp of the doctor
A digital sick cert is fully legal and acceptable across Ireland.
However, employers may verify your online certificate. Here’s how employers verify an online sick cert.
When Do You Need A Sick Note?
You will typically need a sick cert if:
- Your illness lasts more than 2 to 3 consecutive days
- Your employer requests one earlier
- You’re applying for Illness Benefit
- Your symptoms impact your ability to perform work duties
Workplaces may have different policies regarding sick notes, so it’s always best to check in with your employer for their specific policies.
Learn more about sick notes and workplace policies.
Are Online Sick Notes Accepted By Employers in Ireland?
Yes, employers in Ireland usually accept online and emailed sick certs. Irish law does not specifically require a physical paper certificate.
According to the Irishstatutebook.ie, “An employee shall, in respect of a statutory sick leave day, provide his or her employer with a medical certificate in an official language of the State signed by a registered medical practitioner stating that the employee named in the certificate is unable to work.”
Employers usually accept:
- PDF certs
- Digitally signed notes
- Certificates emailed directly by a GP service
What to Do If Your Employer Rejects Your Online Sick Cert?
If your sick cert is rejected by your employer. Here’s what you can do:
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Check the Certificate is Complete and Valid:
Make sure your sick note includes your details, doctor’s information, the date, and confirmation that you’re unfit for work. Missing details is one of the common reasons certs are rejected.
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Provide Verification Information:
If your employer doubts the certificate, offer verification such as the clinic’s contact information or permission for them to confirm it with your GP.
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Reference Irish Law:
Remind your employer that under Sick Leave Act 2022, a valid medical certificate is the legal requirement for statutory sick pay. Sharing official guidance can help clear up confusion.
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Contact the Workplace Relations Commission WRC:
If your employer still refuses to accept a legitimate medical certificate, you can seek advice or file a complaint to the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC). You can file a complaint through their e-complaint portal.
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Consider an In-Person Follow Up (If Necessary):
If necessary, your doctor can reassess you in person and issue an updated certificate, especially if the first note was provided online.
How to Get an Online Sick Note in Ireland:
Generally getting a sick cert online in Ireland involves these steps:
Step 1: Choose a Trusted Platform
First, you need to choose a trusted GP or telehealth provider. Look for services that:
- Uses Irish Medical Council (IMC)-registered doctors
- Are GDPR-compliant
- Issue secure, verifiable PDF sick certs
- Shows clear pricing upfront
Step 2: Complete a Short Medical Questionnaire
You’ll typically need to provide:
- Your symptoms
- Your basic personal details
- Relevant medical history
- Employer details (optional)
This helps the doctor assess your condition ethically and safely.
Step 3: Attend a Phone/Video Consultation (If Required)
Some conditions require a brief 5-10 minutes consultation. It may be a phone or video call, depending on the clinical need.
It’s like a standard GP consultation, just done from your home.
Step 4: Receive Your Sick Cert by Email
Most people receive their online sick cert:
- Within 5 minutes to 2 hours for simple cases
- Up to 24 hours if a consultation is necessary
Online sick certs are sent as:
- A secure PDF
- A downloadable link
- Or directly to your employer (if requested)
For Illness Benefit cases, your GP submits an eCert electronically.
How Long Can an Online Sick Note Cover?
It depends on your condition and clinical guidelines. Typically it covers up to a maximum of 5–7 days, though this can vary by provider and is often determined by the doctor based on your specific illness.
Longer illnesses may require a follow-up consultation, so the doctor can reassess your condition.
Common Illnesses Suitable for Online Sick Notes
Online GP sick certs work well for:
- Flu or cold symptoms
- Sore throat or viral infections
- Mild COVID-19
- Headaches
- Migraine flare-ups
- Back pain
- Stress-related symptoms (depending on assessment)
Severe or complex conditions may require an in-person GP visit.
Learn more about common reasons for sick leave in Ireland.
How Much Does an Online Sick Note Cost in Ireland?
Prices for an online sick note vary, but generally most reputable services in Ireland cost between €25 and €45.
Online sick notes often cost less than traditional GP visits, and save travel time, clinic queues, and exposure to illness.
Is it Safe to Get a Sick Note Online?
Yes, as long as the doctor is IMC-registered and the service is reputable.
Choose platforms that clearly lists:
- IMC registration numbers
- Doctor credentials
- Clinical assessment process
- Secure payment methods
How to Spot a Fake or Unreliable Online Sick Note Service?
Here are some simple things you should be careful about:
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No IMC Registration Number Displayed
A registered Irish doctor must display their IMC-registration number. You can check it on the official Medical Council Register. If it’s missing or doesn’t match, avoid the service.
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No Consultation Required
Legitimate providers always ask health questions or provide a proper consultation. Instant certs without any assessment are a clear warning sign.
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Unrealistic Promises
Be cautious of claims like “ guaranteed approval” or “instant certs for any reason”. Genuine doctors can only issue a cert after assessing your condition.
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No Privacy Policy or GDPR Compliance
If the website doesn’t clearly explain how your data is protected under GDPR , your personal information may not be safe.
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Payment Methods That Can’t Be Traced
Avoid the services that only accept untraceable payments (such as gift cards). Trustworthy healthcare providers use secure, trackable payment methods.
Online vs In-Person Sick Note: Quick Comparison
|
Feature |
Online Sick Note | In-Person GP Visit |
| Legality | Fully valid | Fully valid |
| Speed | Fast | Depends on appointment |
| Convenience | High (home-based) | Requires travel |
| Cost | Cost effective | Higher (includes traveling cost) |
| Best for | Mild and short-term illnesses | Complex or serious illnesses |
Get a Sick Cert Online
Sicknote.com is a trusted online healthcare platform that provides fast, secure, and legally valid, same-day sick notes issued after medical consultation and approval by an IMC-registered doctor and accepted by employers in Ireland and other EU countries.
Sicknote.com provides full transparency, listing doctor credentials and ensuring medically responsible assessments.
We make getting sick notes simple—no travel, no waiting rooms, no stress.
