Sick leave

Sick leave in Chile is governed by the Labour Code and entitles employees to paid time off when they are unable to work due to illness or injury. The system distinguishes between common illnesses and work-related injuries or occupational diseases, each with different entitlements and funding mechanisms.

For common illnesses, employees are entitled to sick leave with full pay during the period they are medically certified as unfit for work. The first three days of absence may be justified by a declaration from the employer or a healthcare provider, while absences exceeding three consecutive days require a medical certificate issued by an authorized healthcare professional or institution. The employer covers the cost of the first three days of sick leave per year, after which the social security system (through the worker's health insurance fund) assumes responsibility for payment.

Work-related injuries and occupational diseases are covered separately under Chile's occupational health and safety framework. These absences are fully funded by the employer's workers' compensation insurance and do not count against the employee's annual sick leave entitlement.

The governing legislation is found in the Chilean Labour Code (Código del Trabajo), specifically Articles 67 through 71, and is administered by the Ministry of Labour and Social Security in coordination with health authorities and social security institutions.

Employers and payroll teams must maintain accurate records of all sick leave absences, ensure proper medical certification is obtained when required, and correctly allocate costs between employer liability and social security coverage. Failure to comply with sick leave regulations can result in significant penalties and legal disputes.