Promoted by the Colombian government and approved by the Congress of the Republicthe labor reform raises important changes in the Substantive Labor Code in order to modernize the legislation and adapt it to the current challenges and priorities of the labor market, such as fighting informality and precariousness. Among these is the working hours and before this, the doubt arises when the “night surcharge” begins.
Among the most significant modifications proposed by the reform, the expansion of the night surcharge, which Now he will apply from 7:00 p.m. and not from 9:00 p.m., as was the case until now.
This means that every hour worked after that strip should be compensated with a salary increase of 35%, directly benefiting thousands of employees who fulfill evening and nocturnal shifts.
The change applies to all companies, regardless of their size, and represents additional recognition to the effort of those who work outside the usual schedules.
This benefit adds to the increase in payment by Sundays and holidays, which will go from 75% to 100%, strengthening the entry of formal workers.
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Night work
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The reduction of the working day: a key point
Among the most debated reform items in the legislative fieldthe new legislation also establishes a progressive reduction of the weekly workday, which will go from 48 to 42 hours in 2026, without reducing the salary of workers. This measure aims to improve the balance between working and personal life, in line with international standards that recommend shorter and more human days, in order to increase productivity in the long term.
In this context, the Ministry of Labor launched an information campaign in its official media and networks to remind citizens that, among other advantages, the labor reform establishes an important modification in the night surcharge and that they must take into account to fight for their rights.
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The 6 main benefits of labor reform
The initiative promoted by the National Government includes a wide range of measures that seek to balance labor relations and protect employees in historically most vulnerable sectors:
1) Strengthening job stability: Make more expensive layoffs without just cause for companies.
2) Increased night and Sunday surcharges: greater financial compensation for work after 6 pm and on holidays.
3) Formalization of informal work: Inclusion of distributors and drivers of digital platforms in the formal labor regime.
4) Reduction of the working day: From 48 to 42 hours per week in 2026, without salary reduction.
5) Improvements for rural workers: Creation of mechanisms that attend precariousness in the field.
6) Women’s protection and gender equity: Salary equality, more opportunities for participation and measures against discrimination.
