Yes — You Can Get a Sick Note Online in the UK (And It’s Legal)

In 2026, getting a sick note online in the UK is not only possible — it’s fully legitimate when issued by a registered UK medical professional.

Online sick notes (often called digital fit notes) are now widely accepted by employers, schools, and universities, provided they meet the same legal standards as a traditional GP-issued note.

Services like Dr Sicks allow eligible patients to be assessed remotely by UK-registered clinicians, saving time and avoiding unnecessary GP appointments.

What Is an Online Sick Note?

An online sick note is a medical certificate issued after a remote consultation, rather than an in-person GP visit.

It confirms that: 

● You are not fit for work, or

● You may be fit for work with adjustments

Legally, it carries the same weight as a paper sick note if:

● It is issued by a GMC-registered doctor

● It includes required clinical details

● It is medically justified

The NHS itself uses digital fit notes, and many GP surgeries now issue them electronically.

Is an Online Sick Note Legal in the UK?

Yes. There is no UK law requiring sick notes to be issued face-to-face. UK guidance confirms:

● Sick notes can be issued digitally

● Employers must not reject a valid fit note simply because it was issued online

● Medical confidentiality rules still apply

What matters is who issued it, not how it was issued.

If the doctor is UK-registered and the assessment is genuine, the sick note is valid.

When Do You Actually Need a Sick Note?

Many people apply unnecessarily. In the UK:

● You do not need a sick note for the first 7 calendar days

● This includes weekends and non-working days

● This period is called self-certification

You need a sick note if:

● Your illness lasts more than 7 days

● Your employer specifically requests one after this period

● You are applying for Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) beyond self-certification

Common Conditions Accepted for Online Sick Notes

Online assessments are suitable for many non-emergency conditions, including:

● Cold, flu, and viral infections

● Migraines and severe headaches

● Back pain and musculoskeletal issues

● Stress, anxiety, and burnout

● Gastrointestinal illness

● Post-viral fatigue

Conditions that require physical examination (e.g. chest pain, neurological symptoms) are not appropriate for online sick notes and should be assessed in person.

A legitimate service will decline requests where remote assessment is unsafe — this is a key trust signal.

Will My Employer Accept an Online Sick Note?

In most cases, yes. Employers:

● Cannot legally discriminate against digital sick notes

● Cannot demand you visit a GP instead

● Cannot ask for your diagnosis details

They can verify:

● That the note is genuine

● That it comes from a registered clinician

This is why using a reputable UK service matters.

How Fast Can You Get a Sick Note Online?

This is where online services clearly outperform traditional routes.

Typical GP route

● Phone triage

● Wait days for appointment

● Delays during winter pressures

Online route

● Same-day assessment

● No waiting rooms

● Digital delivery

For short-term illness, this speed is often the deciding factor for workers who cannot afford unpaid leave.

What to Watch Out For (Very Important)

Not all “online sick notes” are legitimate. Avoid services that:

● Guarantee approval without assessment

● Do not name UK-registered doctors

● Offer downloadable templates

● Are unclear about regulation

Using a fake sick note can lead to:

● Disciplinary action

● Dismissal

● Fraud allegations

A legitimate service will always prioritise medical judgment over speed.

Can You Get Statutory Sick Pay With an Online Sick Note?

Yes — SSP rules are the same. As long as:

● You qualify for SSP

● Your sick note is valid

● The dates are covered correctly

Your employer must process SSP as normal.

Why More UK Workers Are Switching to Online Sick Notes

The rise of online sick notes is driven by:

● GP appointment shortages

● Remote work

● Better digital healthcare access

● Faster recovery without stress

For many people, it’s not about convenience — it’s about access.

Key Takeaways

● Online sick notes are legal in the UK

● Employers must accept valid digital fit notes

● You only need one after 7 days of illness

● Always use a UK-registered medical service

● Avoid “instant approval” or template-based sites

Get a Legitimate Sick Note Online

If you’re unwell and need medical certification without delays, Dr Sicks provides

UK-doctor-issued online sick notes following proper medical assessment. Always prioritise your health — and your employment security.