THE EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS ACT ESTABLISHES MINIMUM STANDARDS THROUGHOUT THE PROVINCE OF ONTARIO.
minimum wage
As of October 1, 2024, the minimum wage for employees in Ontario is $17.20 per hour and $16.20 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.