CanadaWhat is the federal minimum wage in Canada?
There is no single federal minimum wage set in the Canada Labour Code — it defers to provincial/territorial minimum wages for most workers, and the Governor in Council sets the federal rate only for federally regulated employees.
What the Law Says
The Canada Labour Code does not specify a dollar amount for the federal minimum wage. Instead, it authorizes the federal Cabinet (the Governor in Council) to set the rate — and that rate is typically aligned with the highest provincial or territorial minimum wage in effect.
Section 177 of the Canada Labour Code states that every employee under federal jurisdiction is entitled to be paid 'a minimum wage as fixed by the Governor in Council.' This means the federal government does not set a permanent, standalone wage — it makes periodic orders to establish or adjust the rate.
Federally regulated industries include banking, interprovincial transportation (e.g., airlines, railways), telecommunications, and federal Crown corporations. Workers in these sectors are covered by this provision — not most Canadian workers, who fall under provincial or territorial employment standards laws.
As of 2024, the Governor in Council has set the federal minimum wage at $16.65/hour, effective April 1, 2024 — matching the highest provincial minimum wage (in Manitoba). This rate is updated annually based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and provincial benchmarks.
Statutory TextEvery employee is entitled to be paid a minimum wage as fixed by the Governor in Council.
— Canada Labour Code, s. 177 — Minimum wage
What to Do
Confirm whether your job falls under federal jurisdiction (e.g., bank, airline, telecom, federal government)
Check the latest federal minimum wage order on the Government of Canada’s Labour Program website
Compare with your province’s minimum wage — if higher, you’re entitled to the provincial rate under some interpretations and enforcement practices
File a complaint with Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) if you’re paid less than the applicable federal minimum wage
Sources
Same Question, Other Jurisdictions
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US-New YorkNot legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.