BC’s Minimum Working Age Raised to 16

New changes to the Employment Standards Act introduced today will raise the minimum working age for British Columbians.

Previously, the minimum age had been 12, but beginning today most employees will need to be at least 16 to find work.

Some exceptions can be made for light or appropriate work for those aged 14 or 15, and you can find a list at this link.

The new legislation brings the province more in line with the rest of the country, as well as International Child Labour Standards.