How to Write a Sick Leave Application (2025 Guide & Examples)

Application for Sick Leave: A Complete Guide with Samples

A sick leave application formally informs your employer of your absence due to health issues. Knowing how to draft a precise and professional sick leave application can help ensure a smooth approval process and keep your work responsibilities on track.

In this guide, we’ll explain how to write a sick leave application, providing templates and examples for different situations.

What Is a Sick Leave Application?

A sick leave application is a formal document sent to an employer or manager requesting time off due to illness. This application helps the company prepare for your absence and arrange temporary work coverage. Commonly, sick leave applications include:

• The reason for leave (illness)
• Specific dates for the leave period
• Arrangements for work handover, if necessary

Related: How to Write an Office Leave Application

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Sick Leave Application

Writing a sick leave application is straightforward if you follow these steps:

Step 1: Add a Subject Line

Start your email or letter with a clear subject line indicating the purpose of the leave. Mentioning "sick leave" and the dates makes it easy for your manager to understand your request quickly.

Examples of Subject Lines:

• "Sick Leave Application – February 5, 2025, to February 10, 2025"
• "Leave Request Due to Illness – March 12, 2025"

Related: Leave letter for fever

Step 2: Use a Formal Salutation

Address your application to the relevant authority, usually your immediate supervisor or HR manager. Use a respectful salutation, such as "Dear [Manager’s Name]" or "Respected [Designation]."

Example Salutations:

• "Dear Mr. Singh,"
• "Respected Manager,"

Related: Student application for sick leave

Step 3: State the Reason for Leave

Briefly explain why you are requesting leave. This can be as simple as stating that you are unwell or providing a general reason like "due to health reasons." Be concise but precise, and include the type of illness if you feel comfortable sharing.

Example Reasons:

• "I am writing to request leave due to a sudden illness."
• "I have been experiencing health issues and require a few days of rest."

Related: How To Write a Leave letter after taking leave

Step 4: Specify the Duration of Leave

Mention the start and end dates of your leave. Specify the exact number of days so your manager understands the period of absence and can plan for temporary work coverage.

Example Duration Statements:

• "I request leave from February 5, 2025, to February 10, 2025, for five working days."
• "I anticipate returning to work on March 13, 2025."

Related: How to Write a Casual Leave Application

Step 5: Offer Work Handover Details

If applicable, mention your arrangements for someone to cover your responsibilities. Let your manager know the colleague's name who will handle any urgent tasks or if you’ve briefed them on ongoing projects.

Example Handover Details:

• "I have briefed Mr. Raj on my current projects, and he will manage any urgent tasks in my absence."
• "I have updated my team on all pending work and assigned Ms. Sharma to handle any immediate issues."

Related: How to Ensure Smooth Handover of Work Responsibilities

Step 6: Request Approval and Close Formally

End your application by politely requesting approval of your leave. Restate the duration for quick reference, and thank your manager or HR for their consideration. This shows professionalism and respect for their time.

Examples:

• "I kindly request your approval for my sick leave from February 5, 2024, to February 10, 2024."
• "Thank you for considering my application for sick leave. I look forward to your approval."

Related: What are the Supporting documents required for a sick leave

Step 7: Add Your Signature

End with a formal closing, including your name, job title, and other relevant contact details. This ensures the application looks complete and professional.

Example Signature:

• "Regards,
• Anita Desai
• Senior Marketing Executive"

Related: Best Practices for what to include in your sick leave letter

Formats for sick leave application

1. Sick leave application for office 

Subject: Sick Leave Application – January 15, 2025, to January 18, 2025

Dear Mr. Sharma,

I am writing to request short-term sick leave due to an illness that requires immediate attention and rest. I would like to request leave from January 15 to January 18, 2025, and I anticipate being able to return to work on January 19.

To ensure my responsibilities are covered, I have discussed my ongoing tasks with Ms. Ritu, who has kindly agreed to oversee my projects and manage any urgent matters in my absence. I will also ensure all my pending work is updated and shared with her to minimize disruptions.

Please let me know if any additional documentation or information is required for my leave request. Thank you for your consideration and understanding.

I am looking forward to your approval.

Best regards,

Rajeev Gupta

Casual Leave Application: The Secret to a Guilt-Free Day Off

2: leave application for cough and cold

Subject: Request for Sick Leave Due to Cough and Cold

Dear [Recipient's Name],

I am writing to inform you that I am experiencing a severe cough and cold and am unable to attend [work/school] as I need time to rest and recover. I am therefore requesting leave from [Start Date] to [End Date] and expect to return on [Return Date], provided I am feeling better.

To support my request, I have attached a doctor’s note that provides the necessary medical documentation regarding my health condition. I kindly request a leave of absence from [start date] to [end date] to allow for a full recovery and prevent the potential spread of this illness.

I have arranged for my responsibilities to be managed in my absence to minimize any disruption. Please let me know if any further information is required.

I would greatly appreciate your understanding and support during this period.

Regards

Also read our comprehensive blog with formats on how to apply for leave application from office

3. Sick Leave Application to Care for a Family Member

Subject: Sick Leave Application to Care for Family Member – [Start Date] to [End Date]

Dear [Mr./Ms. Last Name / Manager’s Name],

I am writing to request a leave of absence from [Start Date] to [End Date] to care for my [relation, e.g., parent/spouse/child], who is currently unwell and requires immediate medical attention. Given the circumstances, I will be assisting them with their care and ensuring they receive necessary support.

To ensure a smooth workflow in my absence, I have briefed [Colleague's Name] on my current responsibilities, and they have agreed to manage any urgent matters. I will also make sure all pending tasks are up-to-date before my leave begins.

Thank you for your understanding and support during this time. I look forward to your approval of my leave request.

Warm regards,

11 Maternity Leave Application Formats to Make the Process Easier!

4. Extended Sick Leave Application

Subject: Extended Sick Leave Application – [Start Date] to [Tentative Return Date]

Dear [Mr./Ms. Last Name / Manager’s Name],

I am requesting an extended leave of absence due to a medical condition that requires comprehensive treatment and recovery time. My doctor has advised me to take time off work to focus on my health, and I anticipate needing leave from [Start Date] to [Tentative Return Date].

During my absence, I have coordinated with [Colleague’s Name] to oversee my responsibilities and manage any pressing tasks. I will also ensure that all current projects and assignments are up-to-date before leaving to minimize disruptions.

If needed, I will provide medical documentation regarding my condition and any updates on my expected recovery timeline. Please feel free to email me with any important matters during my leave.

Thank you for your consideration and support. I look forward to returning to work as soon as my health permits.

Sincerely,

5 Samples to help you Ace your One Day Leave Application

5. Medical Leave Application for Office

Subject: Medical Leave Application for Office

Dear [Manager's Name],

I hope you are doing well. I am writing to request a medical leave from work due to a health issue that requires immediate attention. After consulting with my doctor, it has been recommended that I take time off to undergo treatment and fully recover. Consequently, I must take leave starting from [start date] and expect to return on [return date].

To support my request, I will provide a medical certificate from my doctor, which details my condition and the necessity of this leave. I understand the importance of my responsibilities, so I have coordinated with [colleague’s name] to ensure a smooth transition of my duties. They are well-briefed on my ongoing projects and will manage them during my absence.

During this period, I may be limited in my ability to respond, but I will try to remain accessible via email for any urgent matters. Please let me know if there is anything specific you would like me to address before my leave begins.

Thank you for your understanding and consideration. I appreciate your support and look forward to your approval of my medical leave application for office.

Sincerely

No need to stress for fever, read and download for more than 10 formats on leave application for fever 

6. Medical Leave Application for School

Subject: Medical Leave Application for School

Dear [Principal's Name]/[Teacher's Name],

I am writing to inform you that I must take medical leave from school due to a health condition requiring treatment and rest. After consulting with my doctor, I have been advised to take time off to recover. Therefore, I kindly request leave from [start date] to [end date].

To support my medical leave application for school, I will submit a medical certificate from my doctor detailing my condition and the recommended duration of leave. I understand the importance of keeping up with my studies, so I will try to catch up on any missed work when I return to school.

During my leave, I would appreciate it if you could inform me of any crucial assignments or exams I should be aware of. I will do my best to stay on track academically, even while away.

Thank you for your understanding and support during this time. I look forward to your approval and hope to return to school as soon as I am well enough.
Sincerely,
[Your Class/Grade]
[Your Roll Number]

7. Leave Application for Medical Emergency

Subject: Application for Sick Leave Due to Severe Back Pain

Subject: Leave Application for Medical Emergency

Dear [Manager's Name],

I am writing to inform you that my [family member's relationship] is currently facing a medical emergency and I urgently need to take leave from work. Due to the unexpected nature of this situation, I request immediate leave starting from [start date]. I am uncertain about the exact duration, but I will keep you updated and provide a return date as soon as possible.

Given the circumstances, I may be unable to fulfill my duties during this time. However, I have already spoken to [colleague’s name], and they have kindly agreed to handle my responsibilities in my absence. They are well-informed about my current projects and will ensure everything runs smoothly.

Once the situation stabilizes, I will provide any necessary documentation to support my leave application for a medical emergency. I deeply appreciate your understanding and prompt attention to this request. Your support during this difficult time means a lot to me, and I am grateful for it.

Please contact me via phone or email if you have any urgent matters that require my attention. I will assist remotely whenever possible.

Thank you for your consideration. I hope to return to work soon and will update you once I have more information.

Sincerely

8. Sick leave application for school (application to the principal)

To the Principal

Subject: Leave application for school

I hope this letter finds you well. My child, [Child's Name], who is a student in [Grade and Class] at your school, will be unable to attend school for two days due to [illness].

The doctor has recommended that [he/she] take time off to recover, and we will be following [his/her] advice. I have attached a copy of the doctor's note for your reference.

Please let me know if there is any work or assignments that [Child's Name] can complete at home during [his/her] absence. Additionally, If your school offers online class during sick leave, please let me know the process to follow.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or concerns.

Thank you for your understanding.

Sincerely,

Also read our blog on how to apply to principal for sick leave for your child with 8+ formats

Also read how to write a resignation letter

10. Sick leave Out of office message

Subject: Out of Office: Sick Leave

Hello,

Thank you for reaching out. I am currently out of the office due to illness and will be on sick leave until [return date]. During this time, I will have limited access to my email and may not be able to respond immediately.

For urgent matters, please contact [colleague's name] at [colleague's email address] or [colleague's phone number]. They will be able to assist you in my absence.

I appreciate your understanding and will get back to you as soon as possible upon my return.

Best regards,

11 : Leave application for sick child

Subject: Request for Sick Leave to Care for My Child
Dear [Manager's Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I’m writing to inform you that my child has fallen ill, and I need to take some time off to care for them. Given the circumstances, I would like to request [number of days] of sick leave, starting from [start date] to [end date].

Understanding the importance of my responsibilities, I will ensure that any urgent tasks are completed before my leave begins. I’ll be available via email or phone if any critical issues arise during my absence. Additionally, I will coordinate with [colleague's name] to cover essential duties, ensuring a smooth transition.

I appreciate your understanding and support during this time. Please let me know if there are any further steps I need to take to formalize this request or if additional information is needed.

Best regards,

12. leave extension request letter due to medical treatment

Subject: Request for Extension of Medical Leave

Dear [Manager's Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to request an extension of my current medical leave, as my treatment requires additional time for recovery. Initially, I had planned to return to work on [original return date], but my doctor has advised that I need more time to fully recuperate.

My medical condition, which initially led to my leave, still necessitates ongoing treatment and rest. The extension is crucial for ensuring I recover completely before resuming my duties. I am attaching my doctor's updated medical certificate outlining the recommended extension period.

During this extended leave, I will remain in contact and can provide any necessary updates. I have coordinated with [colleague's name] to ensure that my responsibilities remain managed efficiently. Thank you for your understanding and support during this time.

Regards

The Importance of Sick Leave for a Healthy Workplace

Sick leave is crucial for maintaining a healthy and productive workplace. Effective sick leave policies benefit both employees and employers, highlighting the importance of prompt action and teamwork, especially in handling medical emergencies.

Quick Action Helps

Responding quickly to sick leave requests, especially within the first two weeks, helps employees recover and return to work faster. (Vargas-Prada et al., 2016).

Teamwork Works Best

Collaboration between managers, health professionals, and coworkers during sick leave improves outcomes and reduces long-term absences.  (Carroll et al., 2010).

Stick to the Sick Leave Rules

Sticking to sick leave policies, especially during flu season, is crucial for preventing illness spread and ensuring smooth operations (Edwards et al., 2016).

Wellness Programs: More Than Just Health

While wellness programs enhance well-being, they should be part of a broader health strategy as they don’t always reduce sick leave (Proper et al., 2004).

Summing up

Crafting a well-structured application for sick leave ensures that your absence is appropriately recorded and reflects your professionalism. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can submit a leave request that is clear, concise, and compliant with your company’s policies.

 

Remember to include all necessary details, avoid common mistakes, and provide supporting documentation when required. This approach will help you secure your sick leave and maintain good relations with your employer.

Read our blogs for other formats of leave applications

Links to download samples

• Leave application due to fever
• Leave application for maternity
• Leave application for office
• Leave application for marriage
• Half day leave application