British Columbia Minimum Wage 2024: Everything You Need to Know

The general minimum wage in British Columbia (B.C.) is currently $17.40 per hour, as of June 1, 2024. B.C. continues to have the highest minimum wage among Canada’s 10 provinces.

What Is the Minimum Wage in B.C.?

Minimum wage is the lowest hourly pay rate that an employer can legally pay their employees in British Columbia. It applies to most provincially regulated workers, including full-time, part-time, and hourly employees, as well as bartenders, liquor servers, and students.

Current Minimum Wage Rates in B.C. (2024-2025)

Note: Future increases will be announced by the B.C. government.

Is the Minimum Wage in B.C. Tied to Inflation?

Yes. British Columbia is the first province in Canada to tie its minimum wage to inflation. Each year, the minimum wage increases based on the previous year’s inflation rate, ensuring that workers’ earnings keep pace with the cost of living. The rate will never decrease, even if there is deflation.

SEE ALSO
• Are B.C. employers required to give pay raises?
• Fired after asking for a raise in B.C.
• Consumer Price Index data tables for B.C.

For example, B.C.’s inflation rate in 2023 was 3.9%. Therefore, the minimum wage increased by 65 cents to $17.40 on June 1, 2024.

B.C.’s Minimum Wage Timeline (2019-2025)

Who Is Exempt from Minimum Wage in B.C.?

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.

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 B.C., Alberta, and Ontario
• Minimum Wage Guides: Information for Federal, 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.

Will the Minimum Wage in B.C. Increase Again?

Future increases will be announced by the B.C. government, typically in February or March each year, based on the previous year’s inflation rate. Any changes to the minimum wage after June 1, 2024, have not yet been announced.

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.