Sick leave is paid time off for illness, and like casual leave, it’s a state-level and company-policy matter in India rather than one national entitlement everyone gets by default.

Typical entitlement

Governed by state Shops and Establishments Acts, sick leave entitlement varies noticeably by state, commonly somewhere in the 7 to 12 days a year range, with real variation: Maharashtra has historically allowed fewer days than Karnataka or Tamil Nadu, for example. A medical certificate is commonly required once an absence extends beyond about 3 consecutive days, though the exact threshold is set by company policy.

Frequently asked questions

Does unused sick leave carry forward?

Policy varies; some companies allow a limited carry-forward, others let it lapse each year the way casual leave typically does. Check your specific leave policy rather than assuming.

Is sick leave encashable?

Usually not. Encashment is much more commonly associated with earned leave than with sick or casual leave.

What happens if sick leave runs out during a long illness?

Once sick leave is exhausted, further absence typically draws on earned leave if available, then becomes loss of pay, depending on company policy and how the absence is documented.

Track leave balances across categories with the Leave Balance Calculator.