As of 2023, the minimum wage in Alberta is $15.00 per hour. This rate applies to most employees in the province, but there are certain exceptions:

  • Students under 18 years of age who work less than 28 hours per week earn a minimum wage of $13.00 per hour.
  • Salespersons (other than route salespersons) have a minimum wage of $598 weekly.
  • Domestic employees living in their employers’ homes receive a minimum wage of $2,848 monthly.

Are there Plans to Increase the Minimum Wage in Alberta

Currently, there are no officially announced plans to increase the minimum wage in Alberta. However, the Alberta government typically reviews the minimum wage annually, considering factors like:

  • Inflation rate
  • Economic conditions
  • Average wages of workers

Staying informed about these updates is crucial for both employers and employees.

Overtime Minimum Wage in Alberta

In Alberta, overtime pay is calculated as 1.5 times the employee’s regular rate of pay after 8 hours of work in a day or 44 hours in a week. 

Here are the key points:

  • Overtime is paid on whichever calculation gives the employee the most pay.
  • Some jobs are exempt from overtime rules.

Alberta Minimum Wage Exemptions

There are a number of exemptions to the Alberta minimum wage regulations:

  • Salespersons (other than route salespersons) and domestic employees living in their employers’ homes are paid different minimum wages.
  • Certain professions, such as architects, engineers, lawyers, and psychologists, are exempt from minimum wage laws.
  • There are exceptions for certain categories of students.

Employers and workers alike should understand these exceptions to ensure they comply with the rules.

FAQ for Minimum Wage in Alberta

  • Can employers pay less than the minimum wage? Except for certain exempt categories, employers cannot pay less than the minimum wage.
  • Does the minimum wage apply to casual labor? Yes, the minimum wage applies to casual labor.
  • What can I do if I’m not receiving the minimum wage? If you suspect you’re not receiving the minimum wage, you can file a complaint with the Alberta Employment Standards.
  • Is the minimum wage the same for part-time workers? Yes, part-time, full-time, and temporary workers all receive the same minimum wage, barring specific exempt categories.