Question 1

What must a Canadian employment contract include?

Accepted Answer

At minimum: job title, start date, compensation, work hours, benefits, probation period, termination provisions with notice periods compliant with provincial ESA, and statutory deductions (CPP, EI, income tax).

Question 2

Can I include a non-compete clause?

Accepted Answer

In Ontario, non-compete clauses are banned for most employees under the Working for Workers Act, 2021 (ESA s.67.2). Exceptions exist for C-suite executives. Other provinces allow reasonable non-competes.

Question 3

What is the probation period in Canada?

Accepted Answer

Probation periods vary by province: Ontario allows up to 3 months before ESA termination notice applies, BC allows 3 months, Alberta allows 90 days.

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