New National Minimum Wage Rates

The National Minimum Wage (Amendment) Regulations 2025 have come into effect as of 1 April, bringing significant changes to both the National Living Wage (NLW) and the National Minimum Wage (NMW) rates. These updates impact workers across various age groups, as well as apprentices.

The key changes are as follows:

  • The NLW, which now applies to those aged 21 and over, has increased from £11.44 to £12.21 per hour.

  • The NMW for 18- to 20-year-olds has risen from £8.60 to £10.00 per hour.

  • The NMW for 16- and 17-year-olds has increased from £6.40 to £7.55 per hour.

  • The apprentice rate, applicable to apprentices under 19 or those aged 19 and over in the first year of their apprenticeship, has also risen from £6.40 to £7.55 per hour.

  • The accommodation offset rate has been increased from £9.99 to £10.66 per day for each day that accommodation is provided during the pay period.

These changes reflect the government’s commitment to ensuring fair pay and improving wages for workers across the UK. Employers must ensure compliance with the updated rates to avoid penalties and ensure fair compensation for their workforce.

If you need legal guidance on wage compliance or employment law matters, our expert team is here to help.

The contents of this article are intended for general information purposes only and shall not be deemed to be, or constitute legal advice. We cannot accept responsibility for any loss as a result of acts or omissions taken in respect of this article.