What are Sick Leave and Family Responsibility Leave (FRL) Entitlements in South Africa?

In South Africa, both sick leave and family responsibility leave (FRL) are key employee benefits regulated under the Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA).
These leaves ensure that employees can take time off when needed for personal health or family-related matters without risking their job security.


Sick Leave:

  • First Six Months of Employment:
    During the first six months of employment, or for employees on fixed-term contracts of six months or less, employees are entitled to 1 day of paid sick leave for every 26 days worked. If additional sick leave is required beyond this entitlement, it will be provided as unpaid leave.

  • After Six Months of Employment:
    Beginning on the first day of the seventh month of employment, employees are entitled to 30 working days of sick leave for the next 36-month cycle. Sick leave is accrued at a rate of 1.25 days per month worked.

  • Medical Certificate Requirement:
    A medical certificate from a registered healthcare provider is necessary if an employee takes sick leave for more than 2 consecutive days. This certificate helps to confirm the need for the leave due to illness.

  • Availability:
    Sick leave is available as it accrues, with employees gaining access to their full entitlement starting from the seventh month of employment.


Family Responsibility Leave (FRL):

  • Entitlement:
    Employees are entitled to 3 days of family responsibility leave (FRL) per year.

  • Usage:
    FRL can be used for specific family-related situations, including:

    • The birth of a child.
    • The illness of a child.
    • The death of a close family member.

  • Eligibility:
    Employees must have completed at least 4 months of continuous service with the employer to qualify for FRL.

  • Availability:
    FRL is typically granted at the start of each year and is available on an annual basis, allowing employees to manage personal and family responsibilities without financial penalty.

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