Virginia does not require paid sick leave. Not required for most workers in 2026; only home health workers are covered. A 2026 law expands paid sick leave to most private and public employees, phasing in from July 1, 2027 for employers with 50 or more workers. Some employers still offer it as a benefit, and cities in some states set their own rules.
Paid sick leave in Virginia
Required by state law
No
Typical accrual
Set by the employer, if offered
The rule
Not required for most workers in 2026; only home health workers are covered. A 2026 law expands paid sick leave to most private and public employees, phasing in from July 1, 2027 for employers with 50 or more workers.
Good to know
Paid sick leave and paid vacation are different things. This page covers sick leave. For whether unused vacation must be paid when you leave a job, see Virginia PTO payout rules. This is general information, not legal advice.