Minimum wage in Nova Scotia
The general hourly rate, when it started, what the official page says comes next, and where to read it.
General minimum wage
$17.00 per hour
In effect since October 1, 2026.
Source: Government of Nova Scotia: Minimum wage official. Last checked October 28, 2026.
Next change
The page gives no next change.
novascotia.ca official
Exceptions and more detail
Listed only as the official page states them. The page, and the law behind it, have the full detail.
Not covered by the general order
The page lists: certain farm workers, registered apprentices, people in government-approved training, non-profit playground or summer camp staff, real estate and car salespeople, licensed insurance agents, fishing boat employees and athletes. Logging and construction workers are covered by separate minimum wage orders.
novascotia.ca official
Official sources
Cross-check: the Government of Canada’s table of general minimum wage rates lists $16.75 from April 1, 2026, then $17.00 from October 1, 2026. It is a federal page, not Nova Scotia’s own, so we keep the page above as the main source. minwage-salairemin.service.canada.ca official
General information only, not legal advice. If your pay is in question, the official page and the labour standards office of Nova Scotia govern. Rates can change: see how we check.