Minimum Wage Across Canada
Starting October 1, 2024, three Canadian provinces are raising the minimum wage per hour. The Federal government along with other provinces and territories increased the minimum wage earlier this year. Time to have a look at the minimum wage across Canada! The following table shows the current minimum wage across Canada and its respective effective date:
| Province / Territory | Current Minimum Wage | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|
| Federal | $ 17.30 | April 1, 2024 |
| Alberta | $ 15.00 | October 1, 2018 |
| British Columbia | $ 14.40 | June 1, 2024 |
| Manitoba | $ 15.80 | October 1, 2024 |
| New Brunswick | $ 15.30 | April 1, 2024 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | $ 15.60 | April 1, 2024 |
| Northwest Territories | $ 16.70 | September 1, 2024 |
| Nova Scotia | $ 15.20 | April 1, 2024 |
| Nunavut | $ 19.00 | April 1, 2024 |
| Ontario | $ 17.20 | October 1, 2024 |
| Prince Edward Island | $ 15.40 | April 1, 2024 |
| Quebec | $ 15.75 | May 1, 2024 |
| Saskatchewan | $ 14.00 | October 1, 2023 |
| Yukon | $ 17.59 | April 1, 2024 |
Federal Minimum Wage
The federal minimum wage is what an employee should be paid at the very least. Every year on April 1, the federal minimum wage is adjusted by inflation per the Consumer Price Index (CPI). If the minimum wage of the province or territory where the employee usually works is higher than the federal minimum wage, the employer is to pay the higher minimum wage. Otherwise, the federal jurisdiction includes specific labour market sectors under federal authority, such as international and interprovincial transportation, telecommunication and banking. In some jurisdictions, there are different minimum wage rates for young workers, like students under the age of 18, and specific occupations, such as live-in or domestic workers, or employees who usually receive gratuities.
Workers' Rights in Canada
As a newcomer to Canada, it can be challenging to find a job that pays well and is safe. To prevent exploitation, the Canadian government has implemented measures to protect the rights of foreign workers. The Canada Labour Code defines workers' rights, which states that all workers, including citizens, permanent residents, foreign workers, and international students, are entitled to compensation for their work and a safe workplace. It also specifies key entitlements of newcomers to Canada such as job training, reasonable healthcare services, and receiving a copy of their employment agreement by the first day of work. Employers also have a duty to accommodate their employees to prevent workplace discrimination. The Canadian Human Rights Act recognizes 11 grounds of discrimination, including race, national/ethnic origin, colour, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, family status, disability and a conviction (for which a pardon/record suspension has been granted).
Reporting Workplace Issues and Abuse
If foreign workers encounter any issues in the workplace, they can report them to the appropriate provincial/territorial office. Employees can contact the employment standards office if they believe that their compensation or employment agreement is unfair. Workers can report unsafe conditions or injuries to the workplace health and safety office. Additionally, workers who have been injured or fallen ill on the job may apply for workers' compensation benefits. If you're being abused or at risk of being abused in relation to your job in Canada, you may be eligible for an open work permit for vulnerable workers. By knowing their rights and the reporting measures available to them, newcomers to Canada can protect themselves from exploitation and work towards a better future.
