The UK government has officially released the updated National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage rates for 2026, confirming the minimum hourly pay for apprentices and workers across different age groups. The new rates, published on the official UK government page, took effect in 2026 and apply to all eligible employees nationwide.
Key 2026 Minimum Wage Rates
According to the official UK government publication, apprentices are now entitled to £8 (approximately ₦16,600) per hour, which is the same rate as workers under 18 years old. Workers aged between 18 and 20 years old receive £10.85 (roughly ₦22,500) per hour, while those aged 21 and over are entitled to the National Living Wage of £12.71 (approximately ₦26,400) per hour.
These figures represent a significant adjustment from previous years, reflecting the government's commitment to ensuring fair compensation for all workers, including those in apprenticeship programmes.
Who Qualifies for the Apprentice Rate
Not every apprentice automatically receives the lower rate. The £8 (roughly ₦16,600) hourly minimum applies specifically to apprentices who are either under 19 years old, or who are aged 19 and over but are still within the first year of their apprenticeship programme.
For example, an apprentice aged 21 who is in their first year of training is still entitled to only £8 (roughly ₦16,600) per hour. However, once that same apprentice completes the first year, they become eligible for the full minimum wage applicable to their age group, which at 21 and over amounts to £12.71 (roughly ₦26,400) per hour.
Historical Rate Changes
The government's published figures show a steady upward trajectory in minimum wage rates over the years. Between April 2025 and March 2026, the rate for workers aged 21 and over stood at £12.21 (roughly ₦25,300) per hour, while apprentices received £7.55 (roughly ₦15,700) per hour during that same period.
Going further back, the April 2024 to March 2025 period saw workers aged 21 and over earn £11.44 (roughly ₦23,700) per hour, with apprentices on £6.40 (roughly ₦13,300) per hour. In April 2021, the equivalent rate for those aged 23 and over was £8.91 (roughly ₦18,500) per hour, while apprentices received just £4.30 (roughly ₦8,900) per hour.
Changes in Age Threshold
It is worth noting that the age threshold for the National Living Wage has also shifted over time. Before April 2021, it applied only to workers aged 25 and over. It was later extended to those aged 23 and over, before being lowered again to cover workers aged 21 and over from April 2024.
This change means that more workers are now eligible for the higher National Living Wage rate, which is a positive development for younger employees.
Checking Your Pay
Workers who believe they are not being paid the correct minimum wage can contact Acas for guidance, and the government also provides a minimum wage calculator to help individuals verify whether they are receiving the correct amount.
It is essential for both employers and employees to stay informed about these rates to ensure compliance with UK labour laws.
