Are you under 18 and curious about how much you should earn at work in Ontario? Whether you’re picking up your first part-time job, working summer shifts, or juggling school and work, understanding Ontario’s minimum wage rules is essential. Knowing what you are legally entitled to helps you avoid underpayment and protect your rights.
Ontario has specific minimum wage rates for students under 18, and they are updated regularly to reflect inflation and the rising cost of living. Many young workers are unaware that these wages apply across different industries, from retail jobs to summer camps.
This blog will help you understand exactly how minimum wage works for students, what your rights are, and what to do if you suspect you’re not being paid fairly. Let’s break it down for you step by step.
What Is the Minimum Wage for Under 18 in Ontario?
In Ontario, the student minimum wage applies specifically to workers under 18 who work 28 hours a week or less during the school term or who work during holidays like March break or summer.
As of October 1, 2024, the student minimum wage is $16.20 per hour, increasing to $16.60 per hour on October 1, 2025. This rate is slightly lower than the general minimum wage for most workers, which is $17.20 per hour (2024) and will rise to $17.60 per hour (2025).
Here’s why the student rate exists:
- It’s designed for part-time students balancing work and school.
- It recognizes that under-18 workers typically have limited hours and responsibilities.
- It applies regardless of how you’re paid, hourly, salary, commission, or flat rate.
Importantly, employers must ensure your total pay equals at least the minimum wage, even if you’re paid by piece rate or commission. If you’re unsure, use the Ontario government’s Employment Standards Self-Service Tool to check your pay.
In short, if you’re under 18, you should earn at least $16.60/hour (2025), whether you’re stocking shelves, delivering pizza, or helping at summer camp.
Who Qualifies for the Student Minimum Wage?
Not every young worker qualifies for the student minimum wage. There are clear eligibility requirements you need to know.
To qualify:
- You must be under 18 years old.
- You must work 28 hours per week or less when school is in session.
- You can work during school holidays, like summer, March break, or Christmas, and still receive the student minimum wage.
If you’re a student working full-time (more than 28 hours/week) during the school year, your employer must pay you the general minimum wage, not the student rate.
This wage applies across sectors, whether you are:
- Working part-time in retail, restaurants, or hospitality
- Helping at summer camps or youth programs
- Delivering goods or providing services
However, some roles are excluded, like unpaid internships under official school programs, federally regulated jobs, or specific junior sports roles. Always check whether your job falls under Ontario’s minimum wage laws or another set of rules. Knowing if you qualify helps ensure you’re paid fairly and understand your rights from the start.
When Does the Student Wage Apply and Not Apply?
Understanding when the student minimum wage applies is essential to avoid underpayment. Here’s what you need to know before you start your next job.
The student wage applies when you are under 18 and:
- Working part-time (28 hours or less) during school.
- Working any number of hours during school breaks or summer holidays.
School Term vs. Holidays
During the school term, the student wage only applies if you keep your hours at 28 or fewer per week. Once school is out—like over the summer—you can work full-time at the student wage. If you exceed 28 hours during the term, you switch to the general minimum wage.
Part-time vs. Full-time Roles
If you’re working full-time during the school year (over 28 hours), your employer must pay you the general minimum wage. Part-time jobs, like weekend shifts or evening roles, qualify for the student wage.
Remember:
- If you’re working fewer than three hours but were called in, the three-hour rule ensures you get at least three hours’ pay.
- Public holidays and vacation pay apply to student workers, so you’re entitled to the same protections as adults.
Being aware of when the student wage applies ensures you and your employer stay compliant with Ontario’s rules.
How Does Ontario’s Minimum Wage Compare Nationally?
Ontario’s minimum wage is among the higher rates in Canada, but how does the student wage compare with other provinces? Here’s an overview to give you context. Ontario’s student minimum wage (as of October 2025) will be $16.60/hour, while the general minimum wage is $17.60/hour.
Quick Comparison With Other Provinces
| Province | General Minimum Wage | Student/Youth Wage |
| Ontario | $17.60 | $16.60 |
| British Columbia | $17.40 | No student rate |
| Alberta | $16.00 | $13.00 (under 18, first 28 hrs/week) |
| Quebec | $15.75 | No student rate |
| Manitoba | $15.30 | No student rate |
Some provinces offer separate youth rates (like Alberta), while others apply the general wage to everyone, regardless of age. Ontario’s student wage ensures teens have job access but still get reasonable pay.
Nationally, Ontario sits near the top for minimum wage. Remember, annual increases are tied to inflation, so wages typically rise each October. By comparing wages across provinces, you can better understand Ontario’s strong position in protecting young workers.
What Are Your Rights as a Teen Worker in Ontario?
As a teen worker, you have important rights under Ontario law, ensuring you’re treated fairly and paid properly.
Breaks and Hours
You can’t work more than five hours in a row without a 30-minute eating break. This break is unpaid but required. You also must get at least 11 consecutive hours off between shifts and at least 24 consecutive hours off each week.
Overtime Rules
Overtime kicks in if you work more than 44 hours in a week, at 1.5 times your regular pay. Even if you’re under 18 and part-time, if you cross 44 hours, you’re entitled to overtime.
Tips and Deductions
Your employer can’t use your tips to meet minimum wage. Deductions can only be made for things like room and board (with strict limits) or meals if you actually consume them. For example, a private room counts as $31.70/week and each meal as $2.55, but only if agreed to.
If you’re a teen worker, you have just as many legal rights as adults, and knowing them helps protect your hard-earned pay.
How Often Does the Minimum Wage Change?
In Ontario, the minimum wage adjusts annually to keep up with inflation and the cost of living. The rate change is usually announced by April 1 and takes effect on October 1 each year.
The 2024–2025 rates are:
- General minimum wage: $17.20/hour
- Student minimum wage: $16.20/hour
From October 1, 2025, the rates will rise to:
- General minimum wage: $17.60/hour
- Student minimum wage: $16.60/hour
These increases are linked to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) to ensure wages match economic changes. If a change occurs mid-pay period, employers must treat it as two separate periods and pay accordingly. Stay updated each year because these rates impact your paycheck directly.
What Should You Do If You’re Underpaid?
If you think you’re being underpaid, here’s what you should do.
How to Check Your Pay?
First, review your pay stubs and compare your hourly rate to the legal minimum wage. Use online tools like Ontario’s Employment Standards Self-Service Tool for guidance.
Where to Report Issues?
If you confirm underpayment, raise the issue with your employer. If that doesn’t work, you can file a claim with the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development.
Resources for Help
- Ontario Ministry of Labour website
- Employment Standards Information Centre: 1-800-531-5551
- Free legal clinics or employment lawyers for advice
Remember, it’s illegal for employers to fire or punish you for asking about your wage rights. You’re entitled to back pay and, if terminated, possibly severance.
Conclusion
Understanding the minimum wage for under-18 workers in Ontario isn’t just about the numbers. It’s about knowing your rights, standing up for fair treatment, and ensuring you get paid what you deserve.
Whether you’re working part-time during the school year or full-time in the summer, knowing the student minimum wage, when it applies, and how to handle pay issues protects you.
Ontario offers some of the strongest wage protections in Canada, but they only work if you know how to use them. Keep informed, stay confident, and make sure your work is always respected.
FAQs
What is the current student minimum wage in Ontario?
As of October 1, 2024, it is $16.20 per hour, increasing to $16.60 per hour in October 2025.
Does the student wage apply to full-time workers?
No, if you work over 28 hours per week during school, you qualify for the general minimum wage.
Are student workers entitled to public holiday pay?
Yes, student workers get public holiday pay and vacation pay, like regular employees.
How often does Ontario adjust minimum wage rates?
Ontario reviews minimum wages annually, announcing changes by April 1 for October 1 implementation.
Can employers count tips toward minimum wage?
No, tips cannot be used to meet minimum wage obligations; they are extra.
What if my employer pays me below minimum wage?
You can file a complaint with the Ministry of Labour to recover unpaid wages.
Who can help me if I have wage issues?
You can contact the Employment Standards Information Centre or a local legal clinic.
