Operates Nationwide

Introduction

Vacation is meant for rest and recovery, but what if you get sick while on vacation? Many employees aren’t sure exactly what their rights and obligations are in such a situation. In this blog, we explain the rules that apply if you get sick while on vacation, how to properly report sick leave, and why a doctor’s note can be essential. This helps prevent misunderstandings with your employer and protects your vacation days.

Getting Sick on Vacation: What Are the Rules?

If you get sick while on vacation, the same rules apply as if you were sick while at work. You retain the right to continued pay and can keep your vacation days for the days you are unable to work.

The law stipulates that sick days may not, in principle, be counted as vacation days. As a result, these vacation days remain available, and you can still take them at a later date. This is especially important if you had carefully planned your vacation and are unexpectedly struck by illness.

For statutory vacation days (four times the number of weekly working hours), this right is established by law. For vacation days beyond the statutory minimum , different rules may apply. Employers may make other arrangements regarding these extra days in employment contracts or collective bargaining agreements. So always check what arrangements apply within your organization.

What should you do if you get sick while on vacation?

If you get sick, it’s important to take action as soon as possible. Follow the steps below to fulfill your obligations:

Reporting sick to your employer: Do this as soon as you realize you are sick, and follow the procedures in place at your organization. You are often required to call or report sick through an online portal.
Stay Reachable: Your employer or company doctor needs to be able to reach you—for example, to assess the severity of your illness. Keep an eye on your phone and email.
Notify Your Employer of Your Recovery: Are you feeling better? If so, let your employer know right away so that your return to work can be properly arranged.

Sick Abroad: Take Extra Precautions

If you get sick while abroad, it becomes even more important to take careful action. Communication is more difficult, and you’re farther away from your employer. Many employers require a doctor’s note if you get sick abroad. This note is intended to prove that you are actually sick and are therefore entitled to continued pay and the retention of your vacation days.

Please keep the following in mind when arranging a doctor’s note:

Be sure to consult a doctor in person as soon as you experience any symptoms.
Request a statement confirming that you are unable to work and specifying the effective date.
Do not share medical details: You are not required to disclose the nature of the illness or treatment. The focus is solely on the degree of work disability.

A statement like this helps prevent disputes with your employer upon your return and strengthens your legal position.

Conclusion

Getting sick while on vacation is unpleasant, but fortunately, the law offers protection to employees. As long as you take the right steps, you’ll retain your vacation days and avoid unnecessary disputes with your employer. Be proactive in your communication and make sure you can always provide a doctor’s note if you get sick while abroad.

This blog was written by Stijn Blom, Esq., an employment law attorney at Arbeidsadvocaat.nl B.V. Stijn has extensive experience in employment law and assists employers and employees on a daily basis with a wide range of employment law issues. From dismissal cases to drafting watertight agreements and policies—with his practical and personalized approach, he helps employers and employees move forward. Want to learn more? Visit Stijn’s page.

Arbeidsadvocaat.nl is happy to help you if you have any questions about getting sick while on vacation. Please feel free to contact us .

April 2025