Minimum wage Ireland changes in 2025 & 2026

As of 1 January 2026, the national minimum wage in Ireland is €14.15 per hour for workers aged 20 and over. Almost every worker in Ireland is entitled to the National Minimum Wage (NMW), and some employers also offer the higher rate living wage. In this article, you’ll learn what the minimum wage is, how it’s decided and how minimum wage affects workers depending on their age. 

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The NMW is the minimum wage per hour a worker is entitled to earn in Ireland by law. The minimum wage you receive depends on your age and your professional sector. For instance, the national minimum wage if you're 20 and over is €14.15 per hour, while the minimum wage for 19-year-olds is €12.74 per hour. 

The hourly rate a worker receives is determined by both their age and whether or not that worker is an apprentice. You’re only entitled to the NMW if you’re of school leaving age, which is 16. The government of Ireland sets the minimum wage rates, applying them to all employees. This includes those who work full-time, part-time, in a small start-up business and those completing essential training for their job.

Yes, you might still be taxed on your income even if you earn minimum wage, with different thresholds applicable based on how much you earn and whether you are single, married or in a civil partnership, or are widowed or a surviving civil partner.

It’s worth noting that some parts of your pay don’t count towards your minimum wage. This includes tips, overtime payments, a loan from your employer and a pay advance. Commission, on the other hand, is included. An employer can take certain deductions from your pay, but only for things such as tax, pension payments, trade union fees and any charges for accommodation they provide. An employer cannot use the cost of tools, uniforms, travel or training courses to reduce your pay.

A varying scale of minimum wage exists so that more people of various ages and experience levels can find employment. This was put in place by the government in light of evidence that younger workers were being priced out of jobs. 

While younger workers usually receive lower wages than older workers, a couple of reasons for that might be because they often lack the experience and have a higher training cost than older and more experienced employees. Overall, the aim of minimum wage is to ensure a higher percentage of employment for younger people. 

You may have seen the term 'basic pay' on your payslip. This is your basic salary, not including extra payments such as overtime.

The Living Wage is a guide, rather than a law, that employers can follow. The aim is to give all employees an income that reflects minimum living costs, which some people argue that minimum wage doesn’t do. The Living Wage is increased each year to reflect changes in the cost of living.

If you find you’re able to save part of your wages, you could consider opening a savings account that would allow you to plan for your future. To quickly and easily open savings accounts online, consider using our marketplace with 30+ partner banks. Register for a Raisin Account, deposit your savings for free, and watch them grow.