In 2026, Scotland will see a rise in minimum wages, effective April. The National Living Wage for those aged 21 and over will increase to £12.71, while 18-20 year olds will receive £10.85, and 16-17 year olds will earn £8.00. The adjustments aim to boost pay for low-paid workers.

Minimum wages, paid by employers, will rise across the UK in April. Following today’s budget, it means: The separate apprentice rate which applies to eligible people under 19 – or those over 19 in the first year of an apprenticeship – will also increase from £6.40 an hour, to £7.55.