Medical Certificates (MCs) are a staple of life in Singapore. Whether you are a student, employee, or caregiver, there will come a time when you need an MC to justify time away from school or work. This guide answers the most common questions we receive at DigitalHealth.sg so you can rest, recover, and return to your responsibilities without confusion.
In Singapore, MCs are for patients who are genuinely unwell
Doctors can issue an MC after assessing that you are medically unfit for school or work. Minor illnesses such as coughs or gastroenteritis often improve with rest, hydration, and targeted symptom relief. Teleconsults are ideal for mild conditions because you can speak to a Singapore-registered doctor within minutes and avoid crowded waiting rooms.
Trying to obtain an MC when you are well is against the law. Doctors rely heavily on your history and self-reported symptoms—especially for headaches, insomnia, or gastrointestinal discomfort where imaging may not reveal much. Exaggerating symptoms to obtain leave can damage the trust between patients and doctors and may prompt additional reviews by regulators.
Why faking symptoms is a bad idea
A small number of patients may attempt to malinger. Common motives include securing time off, obtaining restricted medications, or avoiding legal obligations. Doctors are trained to look for warning signs such as inconsistent stories, symptoms that do not match examination findings, or repeated requests for unnecessary documentation. If a clinician suspects abuse, they may refuse the MC or provide a shorter duration while recommending an in-person review.
How many days of MC can you get via teleconsult?
The number of days granted depends on the type and severity of illness, your work environment, and the risk of spreading infections. For most mild conditions seen via teleconsult, doctors usually provide 1–3 days of rest and schedule a review if symptoms persist. Infectious diseases such as COVID-19 or hand-foot-mouth disease may require longer MCs based on public health guidance.
| Condition | Typical teleconsult MC duration* |
|---|---|
| Diarrhoea & vomiting | 1–2 days. Seek an in-person review if symptoms last beyond 3 days or you notice blood in stools. |
| Headaches or migraines | 1 day. Return if pain escalates suddenly, appears after exertion, or is accompanied by neurological changes. |
| Respiratory infections (cough, cold, fever) | 1–3 days. Visit a clinic if fever persists > 3–4 days, breathing becomes difficult, or chest pain develops. |
| Hand, Foot & Mouth Disease | 7–10 days. You are considered infectious while fluid-filled blisters remain. |
| Chickenpox | About 7 days, until all vesicles have crusted over. |
| Insomnia / poor sleep | 1 day. Doctors will also provide sleep hygiene advice to prevent recurrence. |
| Acute low back pain | 1–2 days with mobility advice. Seek urgent care if you develop numbness or bladder issues. |
| Gout flare | 1–2 days. Consider long-term uric acid management after recurrent attacks. |
| Menstrual cramps | 1 day, typically around the start of menstruation. Consult a GP for persistent or severe symptoms. |
*Always based on the doctor’s professional assessment.
Are digital MCs valid in Singapore?
Yes. Digital MCs carry the same legal weight as paper certificates provided they are issued by a Singapore Medical Council (SMC) registered doctor. DigiMCs are generated via the official mc.gov.sg platform and include a QR code plus verification link. Each certificate lists your name, identification number, the doctor’s name and MCR number, serial number, date of issue, and the exact duration of leave. Employers who are unfamiliar with DigiMCs can review GovTech’s reference page for more information.
Why MCs matter for workplaces and schools
MCs protect workplaces and schools by reducing the spread of contagious illnesses and keeping productivity stable. Employees are empowered by the Employment Act, which guarantees paid sick leave for eligible staff. Staying home when unwell helps you recover faster and prevents outbreaks that might disrupt entire teams or classes.
Consulting from Malaysia or overseas
Many cross-border workers live in Johor Bahru but work in Singapore. You can arrange a teleconsultation from overseas, although any MC issued remains valid only within Singapore and medications can only be delivered to local addresses. If you already hold a Malaysia-issued MC, our doctors may issue a fresh Singapore MC after verifying your condition during a video consult. MCs cannot be backdated.
Common questions our doctors receive
“Can I get an MC if I am perfectly well?”
No. Doctors must assess you through a consultation—physical or video—before issuing an MC, and they cannot provide one if you are fit for duty.
“Can I extend my MC if I’m still unwell?”
Your doctor will reassess whether symptoms justify a longer break. Follow-up consults may be required. Administrative fees apply if an MC extension is issued without a full video consult.
“Can I buy a Medical Certificate?”
Buying or selling MCs is illegal. Always consult a licensed doctor to document your illness properly.
“Do I always need medication with an MC?”
Not necessarily. Many conditions resolve with rest and symptomatic relief. Your doctor will tailor treatment recommendations to your needs.
Frequently asked questions
Are digital medical certificates (e-MCs) valid?
Absolutely. As long as the certificate is issued by an SMC-registered doctor, DigiMCs are fully recognised. Check for a serial number, doctor’s details, and the official mc.gov.sg link for verification.
Can I get an MC if I’m well?
No. Doctors are required to certify that you are unfit for duty before issuing an MC.
How many days of MC can I get during a teleconsult?
Typically 1–3 days depending on your symptoms. Longer durations are granted only when clinically necessary.
Can my MC be extended?
Possibly. The doctor will reassess your condition; a follow-up consult may be required and admin fees may apply.
Do I need to see a doctor to get an MC?
Yes—every MC must be issued after a proper consultation, whether in person or via secure video call.
