Employment Standards in Canada

Although the Constitution of Canada protects human rights, each province and territory must set its own minimum employment standards. Standards that apply to your work as a live-in Caregiver will depend on where you will be living and working in Canada. Click here to read about the standards for each province and territory.

Your Rights
You should expect your Employer to ensure you have reasonable working conditions, and to treat you fairly and with respect. Your Employer should provide you with a private room. You should also be given a key to the Employer’s home. Your Employer cannot require you to do work that is not specified in your contract. Your Employer cannot tell you how to spend your off-duty time… this time is yours to spend doing whatever you want. 

Unreasonable Hours and Overtime
Most provincial legislation prohibits an Employer from refusing to pay you for overtime hours you have worked, and forcing you to work excessive hours. If your Employer does something like this, you can complain to your Employer or to government authorities. Your Employer is not allowed to penalize you or deport you if you make a complaint.

Labour Standards
Most provincial legislation stipulates maximum amounts your Employer can deduct from your salary for room and board. In addition, most provincial legislation ensures requirements for days off, minimum wage, overtime pay, paid vacation time, paid public holidays, and notice for termination of employment. The terms and conditions of your contract with your Employer cannot violate any of the standards set out in provincial legislation. Canada is a great country and protects workers from unfair labor practices. Canada has enacted legislation and created agencies to protect workers and their rights.

 Deductions From Your Salary