As students begin to enter the workforce for the vacation period, the Ministry of Economy and Labour reminds employers of their statutory obligation to remunerate students in accordance with established minimum wage provisions. 

Employers are required to ensure that students are paid an hourly rate that, on average, is not less than 70 per cent of the statutory minimum hourly wage rate. 

The minimum hourly wage is currently set at $17.13 per hour, and as such, students must be remunerated at a rate of no less than $11.99 per hour. 

Employers are further reminded that any time worked that is less than a full hour must be calculated on a pro-rata basis and compensated accordingly. 

Pursuant to the Employment Act 2000 and section 1(3) of the Contributory Pensions Act 1970, a student is defined as a person in full-time education who is employed on a Saturday or a public holiday or a period of vacation, including a half-term holiday. Individuals in full-time education whose employment extends beyond these specified periods do not meet the definition of a student for wage entitlement and must be paid the full minimum hourly wage rate. 

Employers, employees and students are encouraged to familiarise themselves with their rights and obligations under the Employment (Minimum Hourly Wage Entitlement) Act 2022. 

Persons requiring further information or wishing to report potential contravention may contact the Department of Labour on (441) 297-7716 or via email at departmentoflabour@gov.bm or visit the Department’s offices located on the 3^rd Floor of Sophia House, 48 Church Street, Hamilton HM 12 between 8:45am and 5:00pm, Monday through Friday.