Edublog - Minimum Wage In Canada - 2025

Learn English with NETOL
Nov 7
3 min read

Updated: 4 days ago

What Is Minimum Wage?

Minimum wage is the lowest legal pay that an employer must pay an employee. Workers must not be paid less than the minimum wage. This includes full-time workers, part-time workers, and casual workers. It also includes workers who are paid by the hour or by commission. Minimum wage helps ensure that workers receive a basic income for their work.

Employees Must Pay Their Employers Minimum Wage

Employers must follow minimum wage laws. They must pay employees at least the minimum wage for the province or territory where the employee works. This rule protects workers and prevents unfair pay. If an employer pays less than the minimum wage, the employee can make a complaint to the local labour office.

***If you or someone you know is paid less than the minimum wage in your province or territory, contact your local labour office. They can tell you how to file a complaint.

Minimum Wages Across Canada's Provinces & Territories

Canada has 10 provinces and 3 territories. The provinces and territories across Canada have different wages. Each province and territory sets its own minimum wage. This is because the cost of living is different in each province and territory.

Take a look at the map of Canada, which shows the current minimum wages across the country:

When Does The Minimum Wage Increase Across Canada?

There is no single date when the minimum wage is increased in Canada. Most provinces and territories review the minimum wage once a year. Governments look at prices and the economy, and they raise the minimum wage when costs rise.

Minimum Wage In Ontario, Canada

In Ontario, the minimum wage rate changes every year on October 1st. Ontario sets its own minimum wage by provincial law. The government looks at housing, food, and other costs when deciding how much to raise the Ontario minimum hourly wage.

There are three minimum wage categories in Ontario that apply to different types of workers.

General Minimum Wage:
This is the standard minimum wage that applies to most employees in a province or territory. It is the lowest hourly rate that employers can legally pay their workers. Each province or territory sets its own rate. It is designed to make sure that workers receive a basic level of income for their labor.

Student Minimum Wage:
Not all provinces or territories set a student minimum wage. Ontario does set a student minimum wage. Student minimum wage is a set hourly wage that is given to young workers or students who work in the summer or part-time during school. In Ontario, this rate is lower than the general minimum wage. The student minimum wage is there to help students get jobs, learn work skills, and gain work experience.

Homeworkers Minimum Wage:
The Homeworkers minimum wage is for people who work at home. They may sew, assemble products, or do piecework. This wage is often higher than the general minimum wage. It helps cover extra costs. It makes sure homeworkers get fair pay. Homeworkers may not have the same workplace protections and benefits as other employees.

Concluding Thoughts About Minimum Wage In Canada

In conclusion, minimum wage gives people a basic, steady pay for their work. It helps workers and their families pay for food, housing, and bills. The rules and rates are different in each province and territory and can change when costs go up. Knowing the rules can help you get fair pay and protect your rights.