Minimum wage in Canada in 2025: a complete guide for Brazilians

Canada has just announced a significant change that directly benefits those who dream of studying and working in the country. In April 2025, the federal minimum wage rose to $17.75 per hour, representing an increase of 2.4% over the previous year. This news is particularly relevant for Brazilians seeking opportunities for professional and academic growth in Canadian lands.

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The new Canadian federal minimum wage

The Canadian government has officially announced an increase in the federal minimum wage to $17.75 per hour, effective April 1, 2025. This increase represents a continuity in the labor force valuation policy in the country, which has shown consistent annual increases since 2021. The measure aims to ensure that the salaries of workers in private sectors regulated by the federal government keep pace with the increase in the annual cost of living.

For Brazilians interested in programs of Public College in Canada, this news is extremely positive, as it means that part-time jobs during studies will have a more attractive remuneration. This minimum wage applies to federally regulated sectors, which include banks, postal services, telecommunications, and interprovincial transportation.

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Canadian Federal Minimum Wage History

Canada established a pattern of consistent annual increases to the federal minimum wage, demonstrating the country's commitment to valuing workers. See the evolution of the federal minimum wage in recent years:

• 2021: $15.00 per hour (initial implementation)
• 2022: $15.55 per hour (3.7% increase)
• 2023: $16.65 per hour (7.1% increase)
• 2024: $17.30 per hour (3.9% increase)
• 2025: $17.75 per hour (2.4% increase)

This history of increases reflects the Canadian policy of adjusting the minimum wage annually based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI), ensuring that the purchasing power of workers is preserved in the face of inflation.

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Regional minimum wage variations in Canada

The Canadian federal system allows each province and territory to set their own minimum wage. In some cases, these provincial values may be higher than the federal one - when this occurs, the higher value prevails. This is crucial information for those planning an exchange, as compensation can vary significantly depending on the region chosen.

Nunavut leads with the highest minimum wage in the country: $19.00 per hour, reflecting the high cost of living in this territory in the far north. At the other end, Alberta and Saskatchewan hold the lowest value, at $15.00 per hour. These variations are fundamental when choosing the region for your program of Private College in Canada - Co-op, as they directly impact the earning potential during the paid internship period.

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The most attractive provinces for Brazilian exchange students

For Brazilians seeking the best ratio between salary and cost of living in Canada, some provinces stand out as particularly advantageous options. These analyses consider not only the amount of the minimum wage, but also the cost of living and the opportunities available:

1. British Columbia: With a minimum wage of $17.40 (increasing to $17.85 in June 2025), this province offers an excellent balance between compensation and quality of life. Vancouver, its largest city, is a technological hub with numerous opportunities for international students.
2. Ontario: The minimum wage of $17.20 (which will increase to $17.60 in October 2025) is complemented by a diversified labor market. Toronto, the largest city in the country, concentrates opportunities in virtually every sector.
3. Yukon: With a minimum wage of $17.94 as of April 2025, this less populated territory offers competitive salaries and low competition for vacancies in various sectors.
4. Manitoba: With a current value of $15.80 (increasing to $16.00 in October 2025), it has one of the lowest living costs among large provinces, making it an economically interesting option.
5. Quebec: Despite the relatively lower minimum wage ($15.75, increasing to $16.10 in May 2025), the affordable cost of living in cities like Montreal and the vibrant cultural scene make this province a popular choice among Brazilians.

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International minimum wage comparison

When we compare the Canadian minimum wage with other countries, we realize how attractive the job market in Canada is for students and international workers. In an approximate conversion to Brazilian reais (April 2025), the Canadian federal minimum wage of $17.75 is equivalent to approximately R$73.84 per hour, considering an average exchange rate of R$4.16 per Canadian dollar.

This compensation is considerably higher than the Brazilian minimum wage and also exceeds that of several European countries. For a Brazilian student working part-time (24 hours a week, permitted by a student visa), this represents a monthly earning potential of approximately CAD$1,704 (about R$7,089), enough to cover basic living, food, and transportation expenses in most Canadian cities.

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Additional benefits of working in Canada

In addition to the attractive minimum wage, working in Canada during your exchange provides several other benefits that go beyond financial compensation. These aspects complement the experience and enrich your personal and professional development:

• Work-life balance: Canadian culture values work-life balance, with well-defined working hours and respect for rest periods
• Multicultural environment: Working in Canada means being in contact with people of different nationalities, expanding your international network of contacts
• Valued professional experience: Canadian work experience is highly valued in the curriculum, opening doors in the global market
• Robust labor protections: Even for part-time workers, Canada offers strong legal protection and benefits guaranteed by law
• Language development: Constant practice of English or French in a professional environment significantly speeds up learning

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Process for working legally during the exchange

To take advantage of the opportunities offered by the Canadian minimum wage, it's essential to understand the process to work legally during your exchange. The Canadian government establishes specific rules for international students:

1. Suitable student visa: Your visa must allow work activities (most study visas allow)
2. Time limitation: During the term of office, 24 hours a week of work are allowed
3. Vacation period: During academic vacations, it is possible to work full time without time limitations
4. Required Documentation: Social Security Number (SIN) is required to work legally
5. Tax return: Even as an international student, it will be necessary to declare the income earned in Canada

Navigating these regulations may seem complex, but with proper support, the process becomes much simpler and safer.

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Perspectives for those seeking permanent immigration

The consistent increase in the minimum wage in Canada reflects the country's economic health and its labor valuation policy, factors that continue to make Canada an extremely attractive destination for those seeking not only a temporary experience, but also a possible permanent immigration.

International students who complete study programs in Canada at a public college have easy paths to permanent residence, especially through Express Entry and the Canadian Experience Class. The work experience acquired during the studies, combined with the qualification obtained at Canadian institutions, places candidates in a privileged position in the immigration selection process.

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Be Easy

A Be Easy offers full support for you to make the most of Canadian labor market opportunities. Our exchange programs include guidance on available vacancies, preparation for interviews, and assistance with documentation necessary to work legally. We transform your dream of studying and working in Canada into reality, with personalized support at every stage of the process. Get in touch today and discover how we can help you build your future in Canada!

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