Minimum Wage in Ireland 2026: What Employers and Employees Need to Know

The national minimum wage in Ireland is one of the most important protections for low-paid workers. It sets the floor below which employers cannot pay employees — regardless of what is written in an employment contract. This guide explains the current minimum wage rates in Ireland in 2025, who is entitled to it, and what both employers and employees need to know.

Current Minimum Wage Rates in Ireland 2025

As of 1 January 2025, the national minimum wage in Ireland is €13.50 per hour for experienced adult workers (those aged 20 and over with at least two years experience in the job). This represented a significant increase from the €12.70 rate in 2024, continuing the phased increase towards a living wage target of 60% of median wages.

Sub-Minimum Rates

Different rates apply to younger workers and those in their first two years of employment:

  • Aged under 18: 70% of the minimum wage (€9.45 per hour)
  • Aged 18: 80% of the minimum wage (€10.80 per hour)
  • Aged 19: 90% of the minimum wage (€12.15 per hour)
  • First year of employment (any age over 20): 80% (€10.80 per hour)
  • Second year of employment (any age over 20): 90% (€12.15 per hour)

These sub-minimum rates cannot apply to workers over 20 who have two or more years of experience in their current employment.

Who Is Entitled to the Minimum Wage?

The National Minimum Wage Acts 2000–2015 apply to most employees in Ireland, including part-time, temporary, casual, and agency workers. The following are excluded: close family members of the employer working in the family home or farm, and registered apprentices in their first two years of apprenticeship.

What Counts as Pay for Minimum Wage Purposes?

Pay includes basic salary plus certain allowances and benefits in kind, including board and lodging (at prescribed rates). It does not include overtime premium, unsocial hours supplements, tips and gratuities, expenses, or certain benefits.

What Can Employees Do If Underpaid?

If you believe you are being paid below the minimum wage, you can: request a written statement of your average hourly rate from your employer; refer a complaint to the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) within 6 months; or bring a claim to the WRC for arrears of pay. The WRC can order the employer to pay any shortfall plus compensation.

Employer Obligations

Employers must: display the current minimum wage rate in the workplace; keep records of hours worked by employees for 3 years; and provide employees with a written statement of their average hourly rate if requested within 4 weeks of request.

Need employment law advice for your business? Our Employment Contract service ensures your contracts are compliant with current legislation. Book a 30-minute consultation for specific queries.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.