Hiring young workers in Saskatchewan

In Saskatchewan, the minimum age of employment is 16 years of age. However, 14 and 15 year olds can work if they have both:

• The written permission of one of their parents or guardians; and
• A Certificate of Completion from the Young Worker Readiness Certificate Course.

If you are an employer and hire 14- or 15-year-olds, you must have and keep on file:

• Proof of your youth worker’s age.
• Written consent allowing the youth to work from their parent or guardian.
• A copy of their Young Worker Readiness Certificate of Completion.

14 and 15 year olds cannot work:

• More than 16 hours in a week in which school is in session;
• After 10:00 p.m. on a day preceding a school day; and
• Before classes begin on a school day.

These restrictions apply in any week where there is a school day. During holidays, and school breaks 14- and 15-year-olds can work the same hours as other employees. 

Young people under the age of 14 cannot work unless the employer has a special permit from the Director of Employment Standards.

CFIB hopes the above rules and regulations will help your business provide meaningful and positive work experiences. Employers offering summer-time jobs play a huge part to instill positive values these young workers will carry throughout their careers.