B.C. Minimum Wage in 2025: Rates, Changes, and What You Need to Know

The minimum wage in British Columbia is the lowest amount an employer can legally pay an employee for their work. Whether you’re a worker or employer, understanding the latest minimum wage rules in B.C. is crucial to staying compliant and informed.

Minimum Wage Rates in B.C. (2025)

This rate is part of the B.C. government’s commitment to annual adjustments to the minimum wage, ensuring it aligns with inflation and other economic factors.

How much is minimum wage in B.C. expected to rise in 2025?

The B.C. government has announced plans to increase the minimum wage on June 1, 2025. The exact amount of the increase hasn’t been determined yet. This annual adjustment is part of the government’s initiative to provide predictable and fair wage increases for workers across the province.

What jobs are covered under B.C.’s minimum wage?

Most employees in British Columbia, including liquor servers, farm workers, and seasonal workers, are entitled to the general minimum wage of $17.40 per hour. Some exemptions or special rates may apply for specific industries.

Minimum wage laws do not apply to certain jobs and employment situations:

• Federally Regulated Employees: Those working in industries like airlines, banks, federal civil service, post offices, radio and TV broadcasting, fisheries, and inter-provincial transportation are covered by the federal minimum wage.
• Certain Professions: Some professions have different wage structures or exemptions under the B.C. Employment Standards Act.

A Look Back: B.C.’s Minimum Wage Journey (2019-2025)

Here’s a quick overview of how the general minimum wage in B.C. has changed in recent years:

Why does B.C.’s minimum wage increase annually?

British Columbia’s minimum wage is adjusted annually to reflect changes in the cost of living. This approach ensures that workers’ wages keep up with inflation, helping to maintain their purchasing power and reduce income inequality across the province.

Do Salaried Employees Receive Minimum Wage?

Yes. Salaried employees in B.C. must receive at least the minimum wage for the hours they work. Employers are required to ensure that an employee’s salary meets or exceeds what they would earn at the minimum wage rate.

Does Minimum Wage Apply if I’m Paid on Commission?

Yes. If you are paid on commission and your income falls below the minimum wage for the number of hours you work, your employer must top up your pay to meet the minimum wage. This applies whether you are paid entirely on commission or a mix of commission and hourly wages.

Fired from a Minimum Wage Job? Know Your Rights

All non-unionized employees in B.C., including those earning minimum wage, are entitled to full severance pay if they are terminated without cause. This applies to both full-time and part-time workers.

LEARN MORE
• Severance Pay in B.C.
• Wrongful Dismissal in B.C.
• Use the B.C. Severance Pay Calculator

What to Do If Your Employer Isn’t Paying Your Wages

The B.C. Employment Standards Act requires employers to pay wages at least twice per month. If your employer fails to pay your wages:

• File a Complaint: Contact the Employment Standards Branch to investigate your claim.
• Consult an Employment Lawyer: You may have grounds for a constructive dismissal claim. A B.C. employment lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP can review your situation and determine if you have been terminated, and how much severance you are owed.

Additional Resources

• Statutory Holidays: Dates and entitlements in Ontario, Alberta, B.C., Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, P.E.I., New Brunswick
• Minimum Wage Guides: Information for Canada, Alberta, and Ontario workers
• CPP Payment Dates: Canada Pension Plan Payment Schedule
• Vacation Entitlements: Vacation Time and Vacation Pay in B.C.
• Minimum Legal Working Age: Regulations in B.C., Alberta, and Ontario

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Wage in B.C. Now?

As of June 1, 2024, the minimum wage in B.C. is $17.40 per hour.

Are Employers Required to Give Pay Raises Beyond Minimum Wage Increases?

Employers are not legally required to provide pay raises beyond complying with minimum wage laws. However, many employers offer raises based on performance or tenure.

READ MORE
• Are B.C. Employers Required to Give Pay Raises?
• Fired After Asking for a Raise in B.C.