Your First Job in Ontario: 10 Rights Every Worker Has

Most workers in Ontario are covered by the Employment Standards Act, 2000 (ESA), which sets minimum standards your employer must meet, whatever your contract says. Some jobs have special rules, so check what applies to yours.

The 10 rights

1. Minimum wage, which rises each October, with some different rates for certain jobs.
2. A pay statement every payday showing your hours, pay and deductions.
3. An eating period of at least 30 minutes after no more than five hours of work.
4. Overtime pay of at least 1.5 times your regular rate after 44 hours in a week, for most jobs.
5. Public holiday pay for Ontario's public holidays, if you qualify.
6. Vacation: at least two weeks a year after each 12 months of work (three weeks after five years), plus vacation pay.
7. No unauthorized deductions from your pay, with some exceptions such as taxes.
8. A safe workplace, including the right to refuse unsafe work under the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
9. Freedom from discrimination and harassment under the Human Rights Code.
10. Notice or pay if you are let go after three months, in most cases.

Speak up safely

Your employer can't punish you for asking about your ESA rights or making a complaint.

Keep records

Keep your own record of hours worked, pay stubs and schedules.

Sources

• Employment Standards Act, 2000
• Ontario: your guide to the Employment Standards Act
• Occupational Health and Safety Act

Read next: Unpaid Trial Shifts and Training: Is It Legal in Ontario?

General Ontario legal information, not legal advice for your matter, and reading it does not create a retainer. Sources checked 15 October 2026: check the current law, forms and dates before you act.

Photos from Pexels: A team meeting in a modern office · A job interview in an office.

This article is general information for people in Ontario, not legal advice. Rules, forms and deadlines change, and every situation is different. Check the current rule or speak to a licensed legal professional before you act.