A major labor reform in Colombia is set to take another step forward this year, with the country continuing its gradual reduction of maximum weekly working hours.
Effective July 16, 2026, the maximum legal workweek will be reduced from 44 hours to 42 hours. This change is part of a gradual reform aimed at improving work-life balance while maintaining employee compensation.
What this means for clients:
No change to employee salaries or benefits – monthly compensation remains the same.
Increase in hourly cost – as the total monthly working hours decrease, the value of each hour increases.
Overtime eligibility – any work beyond 42 hours per week will now be considered overtime.
Higher surcharges – work performed on Sundays and public holidays will increase to a 90% surcharge starting July 1, 2026.
No changes to leave policies, social security contributions, or employment contracts (no addendum required).
Recommended actions:
Review employee schedules and shift structures to align with the new 42-hour limit.
Plan for potential increases in overtime and surcharge-related costs.
Communicate updated working hours internally to ensure compliance.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to your Customer Success Manager.
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