The proposed changes reflect a broader trend in Russian healthcare policy aimed at managing the costs associated with sick leave benefits.
The initiative may face pushback from workers who rely on longer sick leave periods for recovery, particularly those with chronic illnesses or caregiving responsibilities.
The exemption of sick leave payments from personal income tax could significantly impact the financial landscape for many workers, potentially increasing disposable income during periods of illness.
If implemented, the new sick leave regulations may lead to increased scrutiny of sick leave claims, potentially affecting employee morale and trust in the system.
The proposed tax exemption for sick leave payments could encourage more individuals to take necessary time off without the fear of financial repercussions, leading to better health outcomes in the long run.
The Russian Ministry of Health has proposed a new procedure for issuing sick leave certificates, set to take effect from September 1, 2025. This initiative aims to limit the duration of sick leave for employees who have taken sick leave four times within a six-month period, restricting future sick leaves to a maximum of three calendar days, with certain exceptions. These exceptions include caring for sick relatives, medical rehabilitation, and treatment for significant diseases requiring renal replacement therapy.
Legal experts suggest that this measure is intended to reduce the potential for abuse of sick leave benefits, particularly in light of increasing sick leave payments. The maximum sick leave payment is projected to nearly double over the next three years, rising from 4,000 rubles per day in 2025 to 7,900 rubles by 2027.
Additionally, the State Duma is considering a bill to exempt sick leave payments from personal income tax, arguing that these benefits should be viewed as compensation rather than income. This proposal comes amid reports that Russians received 600 billion rubles in temporary disability benefits in 2023, which were subject to income tax.
