Overview
- Deputies approved a maximum of 30 days for an initial sick-leave prescription and two months for a renewal during the first reading of the 2026 Social Security budget.
- Physicians may exceed the limits if they justify the extension on the prescription based on the patient’s situation.
- The government’s original proposal to set shorter limits by decree was replaced by a Socialist amendment that inscribes the cap in law.
- Health Minister Stéphanie Rist cited roughly €11 billion in sick-leave payouts growing about 6% annually over five years, and a budget report expects the cap to increase medical consultations for closer follow-up.
- Left and independent lawmakers warned of difficulties in areas short on doctors and of a presumption of mistrust, and the Assembly also removed a plan to lower some long-term condition indemnity ceilings and declined to make the post‑maternity return‑to‑work check optional.