Your Rights Under the Employment Standards Act

This information sheet summarizes your rights as a foreign national employed in Ontario under the Employment Standards Act, 2000 (ESA).

The ESA is a law that sets minimum standards in most Ontario workplaces. Special rules and exemptions apply to certain employees.

Topics included in this sheet are:

  • Regular payment of wages and wage statements
  • Limits on hours of work and eating periods
  • Overtime pay
  • Minimum wage
  • Vacation with pay
  • Public holidays and public holiday pay
  • Leaves of absence
  • Termination notice

It is important to remember that you cannot be punished for asking about your ESA rights.

Last updated: August 2, 2024 4006039