Working Hours 2026
Complete guide to working hours, public holidays, and annual leave in Canada for 2026
Standard Work Week
- 8 hours per day
- 5 days per week
- 40 hours per week
Under the Canada Labour Code (s.169), federally regulated employees may work a maximum of 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week, with overtime payable thereafter. Most employees are governed by provincial labour standards, which set similar limits but vary by province.
Annual Leave Entitlement
10 - 15 days
10 days minimum federally (2 weeks). Varies by province. Increases to 15 days after 5 years.
Monthly Averages
- 20.9 working days/month
- 167.3 working hours/month
Monthly Working Hours Goals 2026
Expected working hours per month based on 8-hour workday, excluding weekends and public holidays.
| Month | Working Days | Monthly Goal |
|---|---|---|
| January 2026 | 21 | 168.00 |
| February 2026 | 20 | 160.00 |
| March 2026 | 22 | 176.00 |
| April 2026 | 21 | 168.00 |
| May 2026 | 20 | 160.00 |
| June 2026 | 22 | 176.00 |
| July 2026 | 22 | 176.00 |
| August 2026 | 20 | 160.00 |
| September 2026 | 20 | 160.00 |
| October 2026 | 21 | 168.00 |
| November 2026 | 20 | 160.00 |
| December 2026 | 22 | 176.00 |
| Total | 251 | 2008.00 |
Public Holidays in Canada 2026
Canada has 12 public holidays in 2026, with 10 falling on weekdays. See full public holidays list
Understanding Holiday Types
Different countries use different terminology for non-working days. Here is what each term means for workforce planning.
Public Holidays
Official days off recognized by a country's government. Most employees are entitled to paid leave, and businesses may close or operate with reduced staff.
Federal Holidays
Holidays established by a national government, primarily affecting government offices and federally-regulated employers. Private companies may choose whether to observe them.
Bank Holidays
Days when banks and financial institutions are closed. In the UK, this term is synonymous with public holidays. Important for payroll processing and payment schedules.
Observances
Notable dates that are not official days off. Examples include Earth Day or Mother's Day. These do not affect work schedules unless an employer chooses to recognize them.
| Date | Day | Holiday | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thu, Jan 1 | Thursday | New Year's Day | |
| Fri, Apr 3 | Friday | Good Friday | |
| Sun, Apr 5 | Sunday | Easter Sunday | Weekend |
| Mon, May 18 | Monday | Victoria Day | |
| Wed, Jul 1 | Wednesday | Canada Day | |
| Mon, Aug 3 | Monday | Civic Holiday | |
| Mon, Sep 7 | Monday | Labour Day | |
| Wed, Sep 30 | Wednesday | National Day for Truth and Reconciliation | |
| Mon, Oct 12 | Monday | Thanksgiving Day | |
| Wed, Nov 11 | Wednesday | Remembrance Day | |
| Fri, Dec 25 | Friday | Christmas Day | |
| Sat, Dec 26 | Saturday | Boxing Day | Weekend |
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