Key Points
- The Colombian Government has enacted Law 2101 of 2021, which will gradually reduce the workweek from 48 hours to 42 hours for employed persons over the age of 17.
- The gradual reduction of workweek hours will take place through the years 2023 to 2026. The schedule will take place as follows:
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July 15, 2023 – 47 Hours (Maximum Weekly Work Hours)
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July 15, 2024 – 46 Hours (Maximum Weekly Work Hours)
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July 15, 2025 – 44 Hours (Maximum Weekly Work Hours)
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July 16, 2026 – 42 Hours (Maximum Weekly Work Hours)
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- The reduction of working hours may not entail a reduction in employees’ salaries or social benefits.
- The maximum daily working hours will be 9 hours instead of 10.
Overview
The Government of Colombia recently signed into law a new measure to reduce the workweek from 48 hours to 42 hours. The reduction of work hours will take effect gradually from 2023 to 2026. Salaries and social benefits will not be affected or reduced under this new law.
What Are the Changes?
Currently, the maximum number of hours an employee may work per week is 48 hours. In accordance with the new law just signed by the Colombian Government, the workweek hours will gradually be reduced over the course of a four-year period between 2023 to 2026.
Looking Ahead
Although the changes do not begin until 2023, employers should begin to prepare for the gradual reduction in workweek hours and plan for how it may affect their current business practices.
Source: Congress of the Republic of Colombia
