Increasing the federal minimum wage starting April 1, 2025

Press Release

From: Employment and Social Development Canada

Strong economies invest in their workforce and the hard-working people that make them run. Resilient economies ensure that workers have the tools and supports they need to not only get ahead, but stay there.

That’s why, today, the government is increasing the federal minimum wage to $17.75 per hour on April 1, 2025—a 2.4% increase.

This increase will ensure salaries for workers in federally regulated private sectors are keeping pace with year-over-year cost of living increases and help Canadians working in part-time, temporary and low- or minimum-wage jobs earn more.

Employers will be required to adjust their payroll information accordingly to ensure that these employees are paid at least the new hourly wage starting April 1. Should the provincial or territorial minimum wage rate exceed the federal rate, employers must pay the higher of the two.

Quotes

“The federal minimum wage brings stability and certainty to Canadian workers and businesses alike and helps reduce income inequality across the board. Today’s increase brings us one step closer to building a more fair economy.”

– Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour, Steven MacKinnon

Quick facts

• The federal minimum wage is adjusted annually on April 1 based on Canada’s annual average Consumer Price Index relative to the previous calendar year (2.4% in 2024) and is rounded up to the nearest $0.05. Since its introduction in 2021, it has steadily increased:
  • 2021: $15.00
  • 2022: $15.55
  • 2023: $16.65
  • 2024: $17.30
  • 2025: $17.75
• The Government of Canada is growing the economy in a way that helps every generation get ahead. This includes recent legislative changes to support employees working in federally regulated workplaces when it comes to accessing the benefits and protections they are entitled to, maintaining a healthy work-life balance and having the time they need for health challenges or becoming a parent. For more news related to federally regulated workplaces, please subscribe to receive the latest updates from the Labour Program, such as The Labour Bulletin, directly in your inbox.

Contacts

For media enquiries, please contact:

John Fragos
Senior Communications Advisor and Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour
john.fragos@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca

Media Relations Office
Employment and Social Development Canada
819-994-5559

ILR4