Labour Legislation

THE EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS ACT ESTABLISHES MINIMUM STANDARDS THROUGHOUT THE PROVINCE OF ONTARIO.

minimum wage

As of October 1, 2022, the minimum wage for employees in Ontario is $15.50 per hour and $14.60 per hour for students.  Details.

hours of work

Normal working limits for most workers in Ontario are 8 hours a day and 48 hours a week. The Employment Standards Act provides means for employers and employees to agree to work more hours to meet business needs.

vacation pay

Most employees earn at least 2 weeks of vacation time after every 12 months of employment. Employees are entitled to be paid at least 4% of their total wages earned in that 12-month period as vacation pay.

Ontario Employees are entitled to nine public holidays with pay:

  • New Years Day (January 1)
  • Family Day (3rd Monday in February)
  • Good Friday
  • Victoria Day (3rd or 4th Monday in May)
  • Canada Day (July 1)
  • Labour Day (1st Monday in September)
  • Thanksgiving Day (2nd Monday in October)
  • Christmas Day (December 25)
  • Boxing Day (December 26)

Employees working a public holiday are entitled to time and a half the regular rate for all hours worked in addition to the regular day’s pay.

leaves of absence

Eligible employees are entitled to four types of leaves of absence: pregnancy leave, parental leave, emergency leave and family medical leave. 


For further information on employment standards

The Ministry of Labour also regulates Occupational Health & Safety for all workplaces.