The legal working age is the minimum age required by law for a person to work, in each country or jurisdiction. Usually, the working age ranges from 14 to 16.

Some types of labor are commonly prohibited even for those above the working age, if they have not reached yet the age of majority. Activities that are dangerous, harmful to the health or that may affect the morals of minors fall into this category.

In most countries, the work of children and adolescents in the entertainment and fashion industries is allowed without age restrictions.

International standards

The International Labor Organization (ILO), through its Convention nº 138, recommends the age of 15 as a general term for member countries.

The UNICEF considers that, from age 12 to 14, the work that does not negatively affect health and development or interfere with education, can be positive.

Working age by country

• Canada- 14 to 16(varies between provinces).

See also

• Age of majority
• Child labor / Right-to-work
• Emancipation of minors
• Labour and employment law

Law | Social issues