Doctors online now
Get a fit to work certificate online
Recovered and ready to go back? Tell us what you were off with, speak to a doctor by video, and if it's medically appropriate they can confirm you're fit to return to work.
- Free to requestSubmitting doesn't book anything
- Doctors reply with a time and feeTiming depends on availability
- Pay only after you acceptYou choose which offer suits you
Three simple steps
- 1
Tell us what you were off with
Answer a few quick questions so the doctor knows what to ask you about.
- 2
Choose your doctor
Review the available consultation time and fee. Pay only after you accept.
- 3
Join your video consultation
Speak to the doctor online. If they judge you fit to return, a certificate can be issued after the consultation.
Fit to work certificates in Ireland, explained
What is a fit to work certificate?
It's a signed statement from a doctor confirming that you're well enough to return to work after an illness or injury. You may also hear it called a fit-to-return-to-work cert or a statement of fitness for work.
It's the opposite of a sick note. A sick note says you can't work for a period. A fit to work certificate says you're ready to go back.
When you might need one
- Your employer asks for confirmation before you return. This is more common after a longer absence, surgery or an injury.
- You've been off with stress, anxiety or low mood and your employer wants a doctor's confirmation that you're ready to return.
- HR or your manager asks for written proof as part of a return-to-work process.
- You'd simply like written confirmation from a doctor to give your employer.
Policies differ between employers, so check your contract or ask HR what they require.
What does it say?
A fit to work certificate typically confirms that you're fit to return to work, the date it applies from, the date it was issued, and the issuing doctor's details and signature. In some cases a doctor may note adjustments, such as a phased return.
It's issued only if the doctor decides it's medically appropriate after your consultation. Whether your employer accepts it is down to their own policy.
Sick note or fit to work certificate?
Sick note
- Says you're not well enough to work
- Covers the time you're off
- Used when you're ill now
Still unwell? Get a sick note online.
Fit to work certificate
- Says you're well enough to go back
- Applies from your return date
- Used when you've recovered
Is an online consultation right for you?
Online usually works well when
- You've recovered from a short illness such as a cold, flu or stomach bug
- You're returning after a minor injury or strain
- You'd like to talk through how you're doing before going back after stress or low mood
- Your employer just needs a doctor's confirmation
See a doctor in person if
- You're still unwell or your symptoms are getting worse
- You need a physical examination or tests before going back
- Your job needs an occupational health, pre-employment or safety-critical medical
- You're in crisis or having thoughts of self-harm. Contact your GP or a crisis service straight away
Time Medics is not an occupational health service. If your employer requires a specific occupational health assessment or form, check with them first.
Know what happens before you commit.
- Registered, verified clinicians
- Online video consultation
- See the time and fee before paying
- Certificate only when medically appropriate
Quick answers
Is a fit to work certificate the same as a sick note?
No. A sick note says you're not well enough to work. A fit to work certificate says you're well enough to return, and may note adjustments such as a phased return.
Is the certificate guaranteed?
No. The doctor decides whether it's medically appropriate after assessing you. If they think you're not yet ready, they'll explain why and what to do next.
Can I get one for days I was already off?
The doctor will tell you what they can and can't confirm based on your consultation. They can only certify what they're able to properly assess.
Will my employer accept it?
A certificate from a registered doctor is what most employers ask for, but each employer sets its own policy. Some also require an occupational health assessment. If you're unsure, ask HR before your consultation.
When do I pay?
Submitting a request is free and doesn't book an appointment. You'll see the doctor's time and fee first, and you're only charged if you accept an offer.
What happens on the video call?
You speak to the doctor about how you've been and how you feel about returning to work, the same way you would at a GP appointment, but from wherever you are. You'll need a phone, tablet or computer with a camera and a decent connection.
Ready to go back? Start your request.
It's free to submit. You'll see the doctor's time and fee before you pay.
Request my certificate