For newcomers and job seekers, starting work in Canada is not just about finding a job—it’s also about knowing your rights as an employee. Canada has strong labor laws that protect workers and ensure fair treatment in the workplace. Whether you’re working part-time, full-time, or on a temporary contract, understanding these rights helps you avoid exploitation and build a secure career.
Here’s a guide to the key employment rights in Canada.
1. Standard Work Hours and Overtime
Most provinces and territories set the standard workweek at 40 hours (usually 8 hours per day).
Any hours worked beyond the standard are considered overtime, usually paid at 1.5 times your regular wage.
Exceptions exist in certain industries, so always check your province’s labor laws.
2. Minimum Wage
Every province and territory sets its own minimum wage, which employers must legally pay.
As of 2025, the federal minimum wage is $17.30/hour, but provincial rates vary (for example, Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia each have slightly different rates).
Employers cannot pay you less than the legal minimum wage, regardless of your immigration status.
3. Breaks and Rest Periods
Employees are entitled to rest breaks and meal periods.
For example, in many provinces, workers must receive a 30-minute unpaid meal break after 5 consecutive hours of work.
Daily and weekly rest periods also apply to ensure work-life balance.
4. Vacation and Paid Leave
Employees typically earn at least 2 weeks of paid vacation per year after one year of employment.
After 5 years of service, this often increases to 3 weeks or more.
You may also be entitled to public holidays with pay, depending on the province.
5. Protection from Discrimination and Harassment
Under the Canadian Human Rights Act and provincial laws:
Employers cannot discriminate against you based on race, gender, religion, age, disability, or other protected grounds.
You have the right to a safe, harassment-free workplace.
If you face discrimination, you can file a complaint with your provincial Human Rights Commission or the Canadian Human Rights Commission.
6. Health and Safety at Work
Employers must follow workplace safety standards under the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) laws.
You have the right to:
Know about workplace hazards.
Participate in health and safety discussions.
Refuse unsafe work without fear of losing your job.
7. Termination and Severance Pay
Employers must give notice of termination or pay in lieu of notice when ending your employment, except in cases of serious misconduct.
The notice period depends on your length of service and provincial laws.
In some cases, employees may also be entitled to severance pay.
8. Rights for Temporary Foreign Workers
Temporary foreign workers have the same rights as Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
Employers cannot take away your passport, charge illegal fees, or refuse to pay your wages.
Support programs exist to help temporary workers report abuse and access resources.
Final Thoughts
Knowing your employment rights in Canada is essential for protecting yourself and ensuring fair treatment. Whether it’s wages, safety, or workplace equality, Canadian labor laws are designed to support workers and maintain professional standards.
At Jobs Connect, we’re committed to helping newcomers and workers stay informed about their rights while pursuing career opportunities in Canada. When you know your rights, you can work with confidence and build a stronger future.
