Ontario minimum wage 2025: what has changed and how it affects workers

On October 1, 2025, Ontario implemented a new minimum wage adjustment that directly impacts thousands of workers in the province. The overall amount went from $17.20 to $17.60 per hour, an increase of 2.3% that accompanies the consumer inflation index. For international students seeking work during the exchange in Canada, this change represents an even more attractive opportunity to balance living costs while studying.

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What does the new minimum wage represent

The adjustment to $17.60 per hour places Ontario among the Canadian provinces with the best basic compensation. For those who work 24 hours a week during their study period, this means approximately $1,689.60 monthly before taxes. During academic vacations, when you are allowed to work 40 hours a week, this amount can reach around $2,816 per month.

These amounts make a significant difference in an exchange student's budget. Considering that many essential expenses can be covered with this income, students are able to considerably reduce their dependence on resources brought from Brazil. The combination of study and work allows for a more complete immersion in Canadian culture while developing valuable professional skills.

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Ontario: strategic location and economic diversity

Located in east-central Canada, Ontario is the country's most populous province and home to some of the most dynamic cities in North America. Bordering the United States to the south, especially the states of Michigan, New York, and Minnesota, the province offers a privileged geographical position for business and professional opportunities.

The region is known for its four well-defined seasons, with pleasant summers and severe winters that can reach -20°C. This climatic characteristic shapes not only the local lifestyle, but also creates specific demands in various sectors of the economy.

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Ontario's main cities and their characteristics

Toronto, the provincial capital and largest city in Canada, has the largest number of professional opportunities. With approximately 3 million inhabitants in the urban area and almost 6 million in the metropolitan area, Toronto is a global financial center that houses the Canadian stock exchange and headquarters of large corporations.

Ottawa, the country's federal capital, has about 1 million inhabitants and stands out for the strong presence of the public sector, technology and research. The city offers excellent quality of life and opportunities in areas related to the federal government.

Mississauga and Brampton, cities neighboring Toronto, form important urban centers with diversified economies and slightly lower living costs than the provincial capital.

Hamilton, known as the “city of waterfalls”, has experienced growth in the areas of technology, health and advanced manufacturing. London and Kitchener-Waterloo complete the group of medium-sized cities with robust economies and a growing presence of technology companies.

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Sectors with high professional demand in Ontario

The province offers opportunities in multiple sectors, which benefits different profiles of international students. Work part-time during an exchange allows you to explore these areas while supplementing your academic background.

Information Technology

The IT sector in Ontario has been growing exponentially. Toronto and the Waterloo region form one of the largest technological centers in North America, with the presence of giants such as Google, Microsoft, Amazon and hundreds of innovative startups. Software development, data analysis, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence professionals find a wide market.

Financial Services

As Canada's financial center, Toronto is home to the five largest Canadian banks, insurance companies, investment firms, and fintechs. Opportunities exist from customer service to financial analysis and risk management.

Hospitality and tourism

With millions of annual visitors, the hospitality industry remains heated. Hotels, restaurants, coffee shops, and tourist attractions are constantly looking for professionals. This area is particularly accessible to international students who are improving their English.

Retail and customer service

Large retail chains, supermarkets, and specialty stores offer ideal entry-level positions for those starting out in the Canadian market. Experience in this sector develops important communication and teamwork skills.

Health and care

The Ontario health system requires professionals at various levels. Nurse assistants, caregivers, technicians, and administrative support professionals find stable and well-paying opportunities.

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How the minimum wage helps with living costs

For students who choose to Do an exchange in Canada in 2025, financial planning is fundamental. With the new minimum wage of $17.60, working 24 hours a week while studying, it is possible to cover a significant part of the monthly costs.

A typical monthly budget in Toronto includes:

• Shared accommodation: $700-900
• Food: $300-400
• Public transportation: $130 (monthly student pass)
• Personal expenses: $200-300

Totaling approximately $1,400 to $1,800 monthly, earnings from part-time work can cover these basic costs or at least a substantial part of them. Smaller cities such as London, Hamilton or Windsor have even more affordable costs, allowing students to save more.

During academic vacations, when it is allowed to work 40 hours a week, many students are able to not only cover all monthly expenses, but also save for trips around Canada or save for the next few months of study.

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Important regulations for international students

The Canadian government sets clear rules for international students to work legally. Those who have a valid study permit and are enrolled in a designated institution can work up to 24 hours a week during the academic period. During the holidays scheduled by the educational institution, it is allowed to work full time without limitation of hours.

These regulations apply to students from programs such as private college in Canada with co-op, where in addition to the hours allowed during studies, there are specific periods of paid internship integrated into the academic program.

It is essential to respect these rules, as working beyond what is allowed can result in serious consequences, including the loss of a student visa and the impossibility of returning to Canada.

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Benefits other than salary

Working in Ontario offers advantages that go beyond direct compensation. The Canadian system guarantees employment rights even for part-time positions, including proportional paid vacation, contribution to the Canada Pension Plan, and Employment Insurance.

Canadian professional experience in the curriculum adds significant value to future opportunities, both in Canada and internationally. Employers value the adaptability, fluency in English, and experience in a multicultural environment that you develop while working in the country.

The professional networking built while working can open doors to more advanced career opportunities. Many students are able to transition to full-time positions after graduating from the same companies where they worked during their studies.

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Outlook for 2025 and beyond

The Ontario labor market remains warm with positive projections. The province faces labor shortages in various sectors, which benefits workers and creates more opportunities for those starting their careers in Canada.

The provincial government has indicated that it will continue to adjust the minimum wage annually based on inflation, ensuring that the purchasing power of workers is maintained. This policy of regular adjustments offers predictability for those who are planning exchange in Canada in 2025.

For international students, prospects include not only job opportunities while studying, but also paths to permanent residence through provincial and federal immigration programs. Ontario has the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP), which offers specific routes for international students who wish to remain in the province after completing their studies.

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Be Easy

Planning an exchange that combines study and work in Canada requires specialized guidance and knowledge of the best opportunities. Be Easy is ready to help you turn that dream into reality, offering full support from choosing the ideal program to adapting it to the country. Contact us and discover how we can make your Ontario experience unforgettable and successful.