A digital medical certificate is easier to share than a paper slip, but a screenshot can lose the feature that makes the document easy to check: its original verification link. DigiMC, the government digital-MC service, gives each certificate a unique mc.gov.sg address.
Use the steps below for a DigiMC issued through that service. Other legitimate digital certificates also exist. DigiMC’s employer guidance says legitimacy depends on issuance by an SMC-registered doctor; a non-mc.gov.sg document should be checked using the issuer’s stated verification process.
Start with the original link, not a forwarded image
DigiMC explains that patients receive an SMS containing the unique link after the issuing doctor creates the certificate. Open that link directly and check that the address uses the mc.gov.sg domain. Keep the original SMS or save the link somewhere private so you can return to it later.
If the clinic says a DigiMC was created but no SMS arrived, contact the issuing healthcare institution. DigiMC cannot resend a certificate it did not distribute to you directly. Check that the clinic has the correct mobile number before assuming the document itself is missing.
Sources: DigiMC: accessing and sharing your digital medical certificate
Check the patient, dates and issuing doctor
Read the name, identification details and certified leave period on the online document. DigiMC states that a wet-ink signature is not required: the doctor’s name in block letters and Medical Council registration number identify the issuer.
A verification check confirms what was issued; it does not correct an error. If the patient details, date of issue or leave period do not match what the clinic intended, contact the clinic. Do not edit the PDF, image or screenshot yourself.
Sources: DigiMC: accessing and sharing your digital medical certificate
Compare a downloaded or printed copy with the online version
DigiMC’s employer guidance says downloaded and printed copies include a link and QR code. Open the link or scan the code, then compare the online certificate with the copy presented. This helps an employer check that dates and details have not been changed after issuance.
Treat the QR code as another route to the original document, not as proof by appearance alone. A picture of a QR code can be copied. The useful step is opening the destination and checking the official record it displays.
Sources: DigiMC: how employers verify a digital medical certificate
What to do if the link fails or the MC is questioned
If the link does not load, try a reliable connection or another device and confirm the address was copied completely. DigiMC provides a support route for a technical link problem. Questions about why the MC was issued, its dates or the patient record belong with the issuing healthcare institution.
For work, document verification is only one part of the process. MOM confirms that employers must recognise teleconsultation MCs from appropriately registered practitioners under the Employment Act, while eligibility for paid sick leave and consultation-fee reimbursement have separate conditions. Ask HR which of those questions it is trying to resolve.
Sources: DigiMC: accessing and sharing your digital medical certificate; MOM: recognition of teleconsultation MCs
Sources & editorial note
- DigiMC: accessing and sharing your digital medical certificate
- DigiMC: how employers verify a digital medical certificate
- MOM: recognition of teleconsultation MCs
Sources checked on 24 September 2026. This original guide provides general information. It does not replace a consultation. Follow your clinician’s advice for your situation.
