Working in a new country comes with both excitement and uncertainty. Most employers in Alberta are fair and responsible, but unfortunately, some are not. That’s why understanding your rights is one of the best ways to protect yourself at work/

Your workplace rights do not depend on your immigration status. Whether you are a permanent resident, international student, refugee claimant, or temporary foreign worker, Alberta has legislation in place to protect you.

Your Basic Rights at Work in Alberta

Alberta’s employment rules apply to almost all workers in the province (note: there are some exceptions for certain types of work). Employment rules are for all people working in Alberta, irrespective of ethnic origin or languages spoken.

Your Right to Fair Pay

• You must be paid at least the provincial minimum wage of $15/hour (Note: students under the age of 18 may be paid as low as $13/hour, but only under certain conditions).
• You must be paid for every hour you work, including overtime hours, if applicable.
• Employers cannot delay your pay or take money from your wages unless it is legally allowed and clearly explained to you.

Your right to a safe workplace

• Employers must provide a safe and healthy work environment.
• You must receive proper safety training and equipment for your job.
• You have the right to refuse unsafe work without punishment
• Employers must take steps to prevent workplace violence and harassment.

Your right to breaks, rest, and time off work

• You are entitled to breaks if your shift is longer than 5 hours.
• You cannot be required to work continuously without the breaks required by Alberta Employment Standards.
• Eligible workers have the right to take unpaid job-protected leaves to heal from illness or injury or care for sick family members. This means that you can take time off work without the fear of losing your job. You may qualify for financial support during the time you are off work.

Your right to respect and fair treatment

• Employers cannot discriminate against you based on race, nationality, religion, gender, age, disability, or other protected grounds.
• You have the right to fair treatment in hiring, scheduling, promotions, and discipline.

Your Right to a Clear Job Agreement

• Your job duties, pay, hours, and working conditions should be explained clearly.
• For temporary foreign workers, your employment contract must match what was approved for your work permit.

What Employers Are Not Allowed to Do

Some actions are illegal—no matter what an employer tells you.

Employers cannot:

• Take your passport, work permit, or other personal documents.
• Threaten you with deportation.
• Force you to work unpaid hours or under abusive conditions.
• Withhold or steal your wages.
• Punish you for asking questions or raising concerns.
• Fire you for making a complaint about your rights.
• Force you to work excessive hours without proper pay.
• Use threats, intimidation, or lies to control you.

There are consequences for employers who engage in this type of conduct. If any of this is happening, you are allowed to ask for help.

If you think your rights are being violated, it’s important to act early.

1. Keep Records

Even simple notes can make a big difference down the road. It is a important to keep written or typed records of:

• Hours worked
• Pay received
• Work schedules
• Messages or instructions from your employer
• Any incidents of threats, abuse, harassment or discrimination. Include the names of any witnesses who were present.

Make sure to record the dates, and times of incidents, if possible.

2. Get Help from a Trusted Organization

You do not have to navigate issues with your work alone. And you do not need your employer’s permission to seek support from a trusted organization. The Workers’ Resource Centre provides free, confidential support to workers across Alberta and can help them understand their options. We help newcomers understand their rights, ensure they have what they need to make informed decisions, and support them take action if they choose to file complaints against their employers.

You may be able to:

• File a complaint with Alberta Employment Standards
• Report discrimination to the Alberta Human Rights Commission
• Report unsafe work to your employer or to Occupational Health and Safety

To book an appointment with the Workers’ Resource Centre, click here to tell us a bit about what is going on.

Remember: reaching out for assistance does not affect your job or immigration status.

A Final Word for Newcomers

Canada and Alberta’s labour laws are designed to protect workers. Employers who take advantage of people can face serious consequences. You deserve safety, dignity, and fairness at work.

1. Knowing your rights gives you confidence.
2. Asking questions is okay.
3. Seeking help is a sign of strength.

If something feels wrong, trust yourself and reach out—support is available.