Domestic or Sexual Violence Leave in Ontario

Ontario's Employment Standards Act gives eligible employees domestic or sexual violence leave if they, or their child, experience domestic or sexual violence or the threat of it.

Who can take it

Employees employed for at least 13 consecutive weeks, if they or their child experience domestic or sexual violence, or the threat of it.

How much leave

• Up to 10 days in a calendar year, the first 5 days paid.
• Up to 15 weeks in a calendar year.

What it can be used for

• Seeing a doctor or getting counselling.
• Getting help from a victim services organization.
• Moving, temporarily or permanently.
• Getting legal help or attending court.

Your protections

• Your job is protected while you are on leave.
• Your employer must keep information about the leave confidential, sharing it only as needed.
• You can't be punished for taking the leave.

Your safety comes first

If you are in danger, call 911. Ontario's support services, such as victim services and assaulted women's helplines, can help you plan for safety.

Sources

• Employment Standards Act, 2000
• Ontario: your guide to the Employment Standards Act

Read next: Is Your Employer Watching? Electronic Monitoring Rules in Ontario

General Ontario legal information, not legal advice for your matter, and reading it does not create a retainer. Sources checked 15 October 2026: check the current law, forms and dates before you act.

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This article is general information for people in Ontario, not legal advice. Rules, forms and deadlines change, and every situation is different. Check the current rule or speak to a licensed legal professional before you act.