Ukraine Implements Stricter Sick Leave Controls

A new Ukrainian law takes effect on April 1, 2026, to increase oversight on disability certificates. Territorial authorities will implement enhanced verification processes to ensure sick leave is justified. The measure aims to regulate how companies and individuals utilize medical leave documentation. Medical institutions or doctors have 10 days to either compensate for improperly paid amounts or appeal a demand for repayment. Territorial bodies of the Pension Fund of Ukraine are authorized to verify the validity of issued and extended sick leave. The Pension Fund may involve authorized doctors, approved by its board, to confirm the medical necessity of the leave. The Pension Fund of Ukraine (PFU) is implementing new oversight measures regarding sick leave documentation. Authorized doctors must provide justifications to ensure the accuracy of medical motives. If the PFU determines sick leave was issued without valid grounds, it will notify the medical facility or doctor within five days of the violation. The PFU may suspend insurance payments and demand compensation for incorrectly paid amounts.