The United Kingdom (UK) has one of the most structured wage systems in the world, with different minimum wage rates based on age and apprenticeship status. This ensures that workers receive fair pay according to their skill level and experience. If you’re planning to work in the UK, you must know the current minimum wage rates to understand your legal rights as an employee.

Minimum Wage Rates in the UK (2025)

As of 1 April 2025, the UK government has updated the National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage rates:

• National Living Wage (21+ years): £12.21 per hour

• Ages 18–20: £10.00 per hour

• Ages 16–17: £7.55 per hour

• Apprentices: £7.55 per hour

? The National Living Wage applies to all workers aged 21 and above. This is the highest legal hourly pay rate and is reviewed annually by the government.

Apprentice Wage in the UK

The apprentice wage applies if you are:

• Aged under 19, or

• 19 and over but in your first year of apprenticeship.

After completing the first year, apprentices are entitled to the regular minimum wage for their age group.

How Is the Minimum Wage Enforced?

UK employers are legally required to pay at least the minimum wage. The government’s HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) monitors compliance, and employers who fail to pay can face:

• Heavy fines

• Public “naming and shaming”

• Back payment orders to employees

Why Is the Minimum Wage Important?

• Protects workers from exploitation

• Ensures fair pay for younger employees and apprentices

• Supports a decent standard of living

• Increases gradually with inflation and cost of living

Key Takeaways

• From April 2025, workers aged 21+ in the UK must be paid at least £12.21/hour.

• Minimum wage varies by age group and apprenticeship status.

• Employers must comply, or risk fines and legal consequences.

• Workers should always check their payslips to ensure correct payment.