Jamaica Minimum Wage 2026
Current minimum wage rates for Jamaica, including all worker categories. See how statutory deductions (PAYE, NIS, NHT, Education Tax) affect take-home pay for minimum wage employees.
Current Minimum Wage Rates (40-Hour Work Week)
| Category | Per Hour | Per Week | Per Month | Per Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Workers | J$325 | J$13,000 | J$56,333 | J$676,000 |
| Security Guards | J$350 | J$14,000 | J$60,667 | J$728,000 |
| Industrial Security Guards | J$400 | J$16,000 | J$69,333 | J$832,000 |
Based on a 40-hour work week. Monthly calculated as weekly × 52 ÷ 12. Rates set by the Ministry of Labour and Social Security.
Statutory Deductions on Minimum Wage
Even at minimum wage, employers must make the following statutory deductions and contributions:
Employee Deductions
- PAYE: Not applicable — minimum wage falls below the J$1,902,360/year threshold
- NIS: 3% of gross pay
- NHT: 2% of gross pay
- Education Tax: 2.25% of statutory income (gross minus NIS)
Total employee deductions: 7.25% of gross
Employer Contributions
- NIS: 3% of gross pay
- NHT: 3% of gross pay
- Education Tax: 3.5% of statutory income (gross minus NIS)
- HEART/NSTA: 3% of gross pay
Total employer cost: 12.5% above gross wages
Example: General Worker Minimum Wage Payslip
Use our free payroll calculator to run exact calculations for any salary amount.
Key Facts About Jamaica's Minimum Wage
Who sets the minimum wage?
The Ministry of Labour and Social Security sets Jamaica's minimum wage through the National Minimum Wage Advisory Commission. Rates are reviewed periodically and announced via gazette.
Does minimum wage apply to all workers?
Yes — the national minimum wage applies to all employees in Jamaica, regardless of industry or contract type. Some categories (security guards) have higher minimum rates due to the nature of their work.
What about overtime for minimum wage workers?
Overtime for minimum wage workers must be paid at the premium rate (typically 1.5× for weekdays, 2× for Sundays and public holidays). The overtime premium is calculated on the minimum wage hourly rate and is fully subject to all statutory deductions.
Penalties for paying below minimum wage
Employers who pay below the minimum wage face penalties under the Minimum Wage Act. Employees can report violations to the Ministry of Labour and Social Security.
Calculate payroll for any salary
Whether minimum wage or executive salary — our free calculator shows exact PAYE, NIS, NHT, and Education Tax deductions instantly.