Businesses and employers across Omagh and the surrounding area are being reminded that the National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage rates will increase from Thursday 1 April 2027.
The changes will apply to eligible workers throughout Northern Ireland, including those employed by local businesses.
Employers should be aware that minimum wage rates are reviewed and increased on 1 April each year. The upcoming changes will affect all National Minimum Wage rates, the National Living Wage and the accommodation offset.
New Minimum Wage Rates from April 2027
From 1 April 2027, all minimum wage rates will increase by 3.9%.
The table below outlines the current rates for 2026–27 and the new rates that will take effect in April 2027.
| Minimum Wage Category | Current Rate | New Rate from 1 April 2027 |
|---|---|---|
| National Living Wage (aged 21 and over) | £12.71 | £13.21 |
| National Minimum Wage (aged 18–20) | £10.85 | £11.27 |
| National Minimum Wage (aged 16–17) | £8.00 | £8.31 |
| Apprentice rate | £8.00 | £8.31 |
| Accommodation offset (per day) | £11.10 | £11.53 |
All five rates will increase by 3.9%.
What Does This Mean for Omagh Businesses?
For employers across Omagh, the changes mean that eligible workers must receive the new minimum wage rates from 1 April 2027.
The National Living Wage, which applies to workers aged 21 and over, will increase from £12.71 to £13.21 per hour.
Workers aged between 18 and 20 will see their minimum hourly rate rise from £10.85 to £11.27.
For younger workers aged 16 and 17, the minimum rate will increase from £8.00 to £8.31 per hour. The apprentice minimum wage rate will also rise to £8.31.
The accommodation offset, which is calculated on a daily basis, will increase from £11.10 to £11.53.
These changes are relevant to businesses of all sizes across the Omagh area that employ workers covered by the National Minimum Wage or National Living Wage.
Preparing for the April 2027 Changes
With the new rates taking effect on Thursday 1 April 2027, local employers should familiarise themselves with the updated figures ahead of their introduction.
Businesses employing workers across different age groups, including apprentices, should pay particular attention to the rates that apply to their employees.
The increases apply across Northern Ireland, meaning Omagh employers will be subject to the same minimum wage requirements as businesses elsewhere in the region.
Further Information
Employers and businesses looking for additional guidance can find further details about the National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage rates on the nibusinessinfo.co.uk website.
Find out more: National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage Rates
