Employment Rights

This guide helps immigrant and temporary workers understand their rights at work in Québec. It covers work standards, pay equity, health and safety, and how to make a complaint.

Personnes immigrantes : Vos droits et responsabilités au travail - Immigrant Québec (Only available in French)

Can I work? 

YES. A person who has applied for asylum and is awaiting a hearing can obtain a work permit and work.

What is minimum wage? 

A worker is entitled to receive at least minimum wage. They cannot be paid less than the rate in effect. The employer must pay the worker a wage equal to or more than minimum wage.

Click here to check the current minimum wage

Can I file a complaint against my employer if my working conditions are unfair?

YES. The government agency regulating minimum labour standards (the Commission des normes de l’équité de la santé et de la sécurité du travail - CNESST) accepts complaints regardless of the worker’s immigration status. This includes complaints about not being paid fairly, being discriminated against, working in unsafe conditions, and not receiving adequate time off.

Click here to see how to file a complaint

Report a dangerous situation

You can contact the an inspector by calling 1 844 838-0808, option 1. You will remain anonymous.

Am I entitled to financial compensation as a result of a work accident that prevents me from working temporarily or permanently? 

YES, if an asylum seeker works with a work permit, the government agency that is responsible for occupational health and safety (the the Commission des normes, de l’équité de la santé et de la sécurité du travail CNESST) will study the application for work accident benefits. 

Am I entitled to financial compensation if I lose my job?

YES. Asylum seekers who have been working with a work permit are eligible for Employment Insurance (EI), administered by Service Canada, which replaces up to 55% gross income (before tax) for a certain period. If the EI application is accepted, the claimant must be available to work during the benefits period meaning having a valid work permit or having applied for the renewal of the permit.