8 Things to Know If You’re Looking for Work in Ontario

Do you know your rights as a job seeker?  Or your duties as an employer? Each Canadian province or territory, and various state and regional governments around the world will have their own laws and regulations.  In Ontario, the Employment Standards Act (ESA) protects employees by setting out clear rules and expectations.

Here are 8 key things every student job seeker should know:

1. AI or Human
Is a human or AI reviewing your application? Starting January 1, 2026, employers must include a notice in publicly advertised job postings if artificial intelligence will be used during the hiring process.

2. “Apply Here” for a Fee
Did you know this is illegal? The ESA prohibits employers from requiring payment from job applicants as part of the hiring process.

3. Do I get a Lunch Break?
Yes! You must get a 30-minute meal break after 5 hours of work. It can be split into two shorter breaks if both you and your employer agree. Meal breaks are unpaid, unless your contract says otherwise.

4. Is There Really a Job?
Also starting January 1, 2026, employers must say whether a job posting is for an actual vacancy.

5. Know the Minimum Wage
Make sure you know the current minimum wage in Ontario.  Check the latest rates on the Government of Ontario webpage.

6. No Canadian Experience? No Problem
As of January 1, 2026, employers can no longer require Canadian work experience in publicly advertised job postings or any related application forms.

7. It’s Time for Training
Training time counts as work time if it’s required by the employer or by law—like for new hires or to keep your job. Training time does NOT count as work time if it’s optional—like when you take a course to qualify for a promotion.

8. Will I Hear Back?
Starting January 1, 2026, employers must inform interviewed applicants whether a hiring decision has been made for any publicly advertised job posting. For details on the required timeline, review the Employment Standards Act guide.

Know your rights and whether the job you are applying for is covered by the ESA – because not all are.  If you’re applying elsewhere, please ensure you know your rights and the law.  For further info in Ontario, check out the ESA website.