Yes, sick leave is paid in Serbia, but the amount and duration of payment depend on the reason for the illness and the length of absence. Serbian labor law provides clear rules to protect employees who are temporarily unable to work due to health reasons.
Who Is Entitled to Paid Sick Leave in Serbia?
All employees who are legally employed and registered for social insurance in Serbia are entitled to paid sick leave. This includes:
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Serbian citizens
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Foreign workers with valid work and residence permits
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Full-time and part-time employees
Freelancers or informal workers who are not registered in the social security system are not entitled to paid sick leave.
How Much Is Paid During Sick Leave?
The amount of sick pay depends on the cause of the illness:
1. Ordinary Illness or Injury (Not Work-Related)
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Paid at 65% of the employee’s average salary
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Paid by the employer for the first 30 days
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After 30 days, payment is covered by the Serbian Health Insurance Fund
2. Work-Related Injury or Occupational Disease
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Paid at 100% of the employee’s salary
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Covered from the first day of absence
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Funded through the national health insurance system
How Long Can Sick Leave Last?
There is no fixed maximum duration, but:
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A medical certificate is required from the first day
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Long-term sick leave must be reviewed and approved by a medical commission
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Extended sick leave may lead to reassessment of work ability
Employers cannot terminate employment simply because an employee is on approved medical leave.
Medical Documentation Requirements
To receive paid sick leave, employees must:
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Visit a licensed doctor
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Obtain an official medical certificate
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Submit the certificate to the employer within the required time
Failure to provide documentation may result in unpaid leave.
Employer Responsibilities
Employers in Serbia must:
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Pay sick leave compensation on time
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Report sick leave to social insurance authorities
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Maintain the employee’s job position during approved leave
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Respect medical recommendations and work restrictions
Failure to comply can result in penalties or legal action.
Employee Rights and Protection
Employees on sick leave are protected by Serbian labor law. During this period:
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Termination due to illness is generally prohibited
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Health insurance coverage remains active
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The employee retains employment rights and seniority
Abuse of sick leave, however, may result in disciplinary measures.
Final Thoughts
Yes, sick leave in Serbia is paid, provided the employee is legally employed and follows medical and legal procedures. The system ensures financial protection during illness while balancing employer and employee responsibilities.
If you are a foreign worker in Serbia, always confirm that your employment is officially registered and that social contributions are being paid on your behalf.