Updated: April 2025  |  bremo.io financial guides

Retirement Age in Canada 2025 — When Can You Retire?

There is no single mandatory retirement age in Canada. In fact, mandatory retirement was abolished in most provinces — you can work as long as you choose. But the age at which you can access government benefits, pension plans, and personal savings all vary. Here is a complete breakdown of the key ages and what becomes available at each one.

Is There a Mandatory Retirement Age in Canada?

No. Mandatory retirement was eliminated in most provinces between 2006 and 2009, and federally regulated industries followed. Employers cannot force you to retire simply because you have reached a certain age. The exception is certain occupations with bona fide age-based requirements — such as some military and emergency services roles.

Key Retirement Ages in Canada

Age 55 — Early Access for Some Pensions

Many defined benefit pension plans allow reduced early retirement at 55, especially public sector plans. LIRA (Locked-In Retirement Account) funds may also be unlocked starting at age 55 in some provinces. Some group benefit plans end at 65, so health coverage is a consideration.

Age 60 — CPP Early Start

You can begin receiving a reduced CPP retirement pension at age 60 — but only if you have stopped working or are earning below the maximum pensionable earnings. The reduction is 7.2% per year before 65 (36% total at age 60).

Age 65 — The Traditional Retirement Age

Age 65 is the standard retirement age in Canada. At 65:

• OAS begins at the full rate
• CPP begins with no reduction
• GIS becomes available (if income is low enough)
• Pension income tax credit applies to eligible pension income
• Pension income splitting with a spouse becomes available

Age 71 — RRSP Must Be Converted

By December 31 of the year you turn 71, your RRSP must be converted to a RRIF, used to buy an annuity, or collapsed (triggering full taxation). Most people convert to a RRIF and begin mandatory withdrawals the following year.

Average Actual Retirement Age in Canada

According to Statistics Canada, the average age at which Canadians actually retire has been rising. As of recent data, the average retirement age is approximately 64 for paid workers. Many Canadians plan to retire earlier but end up working longer due to financial necessity or enjoyment of work.

Retiring Before 65 — The Bridge Period

Retiring before 65 creates a "bridge period" where you must fund your living costs without CPP (at full rate) or OAS. Strategies for bridging include:

• Drawing from RRSP or RRIF early at low tax rates
• Taking CPP at 60 with a reduced amount
• Part-time or contract work
• Pension bridge from a DB plan
• Using non-registered savings

Provincial Differences

Provinces have different rules for pension plan access, LIRA unlocking ages, and provincial senior benefit programs. Quebec residents access the QPP (Quebec Pension Plan) instead of CPP, with similar rules. British Columbia, Ontario, and Alberta all have their own supplementary senior benefits alongside federal programs.

Health Insurance After Retirement

If you retire before 65, group benefits from your employer typically end. You will need to bridge health and dental coverage through a private plan or provincial programs until provincial benefits kick in at 65. OHIP, MSP, and other provincial health plans cover medically necessary care, but prescription drugs, dental, and vision are additional expenses until age 65 in most provinces.