Overview

The minimum wage in Ontario, Canada, in the year 2023 is $15.50 per hour. This wage is the lowest that employers can legally pay their employees in this province. The general minimum wage applies to the vast majority of workers, but there are some exceptions based on the type of work and the age of the worker, which we will discuss later.

  • For students under the age of 18 who work less than 28 hours a week, the minimum wage is $14.95 per hour.
  • Liquor servers have a minimum wage of $13.05 per hour due to the potential for earning tips.
  • Hunting and fishing guides earn a minimum of $77.50 for less than five consecutive hours in a day and $155 for five or more hours in a day whether or not the hours are consecutive.

Are there Plans to Increase the Minimum Wage in Ontario

As of now, there are discussions within the provincial government regarding further increases to the minimum wage. However, no specific plans have been officially announced. The government typically reviews the minimum wage annually and adjusts it based on several factors:

  • Inflation rate
  • Economic conditions
  • Average wages of workers

It’s important to stay informed about these updates, as they directly impact both employers and employees.

Overtime Minimum Wage in Ontario

In Ontario, overtime pay is 1.5 times the employee’s regular rate of pay, often referred to as “time and a half.” This applies to most employees after they have worked more than 44 hours in a week. Here are a few key points:

  • Overtime pay is calculated on a weekly basis, even if the employee is paid on a daily, biweekly, semi-monthly, or monthly schedule.
  • Some employees have jobs that are exempt from the overtime rules.

Ontario Minimum Wage Exemptions

There are certain exemptions to the Ontario minimum wage rules. Here are some of the categories of workers who might be exempt:

  • Students under 18 years of age who work not more than 28 hours per week or during a school holiday.
  • Workers who do homework for an employer, such as sewing, knitting, assembling, or finishing work.
  • Employees who serve liquor in licensed establishments.
  • Hunting and fishing guides.
  • Some computer professionals.

It’s essential for workers to understand these exemptions and for employers to be careful to follow the rules.

FAQ for Minimum Wage in Ontario

  • Can employers pay less than the minimum wage? No, employers cannot pay less than the minimum wage, except for the specific categories of workers who are exempt.
  • Does the minimum wage apply to casual labor? Yes, the minimum wage applies to casual labor.
  • What can I do if I’m not receiving the minimum wage? If you think you’re not receiving the minimum wage, you can file a claim with the Ontario Ministry of Labour, Training, and Skills Development.
  • Is the minimum wage the same for part-time workers? Yes, the minimum wage is the same for part-time, full-time, and temporary workers, with the exception of specific exempt categories.