Mexico’s Historic Shift: The 40-Hour Workweek Is Finally Coming

For decades, the 48-hour workweek has been a cornerstone of Mexican labor law. That era is officially ending. In a landmark move, the Mexican government has set a definitive course to reduce the legal maximum workweek to 40 hours, aligning the country with global standards and responding to overwhelming public demand for a better work-life balance. This isn’t just a policy change; it’s a cultural revolution for the Mexican workforce, promising more personal time, increased productivity through technology, and a fundamental rethinking of how work fits into life.

The plan, announced in late 2025, outlines a gradual, phased reduction to minimize economic disruption. While the final timeline is being solidified in Congress, the direction is clear: Mexico is moving towards a shorter, more modern workweek. This reform is part of a broader package that includes a significant minimum wage increase for 2026, signaling a government focus on improving living standards for millions of workers.

The Phased Transition: From 48 to 40 Hours

The core of the reform is a gradual reduction of the standard workweek. The most detailed proposal suggests cutting two hours from the workweek each year. This measured approach aims to give businesses—from large corporations to small tiendas—time to adapt their operations, potentially through increased efficiency and technology adoption.

It’s crucial to note that the legislative process is ongoing. A bill to enact this change has been sent to Congress. While some reports indicated a start in 2027, others point to the 2030 completion date. The final schedule will be confirmed once the law passes the Senate and is published in the Official Gazette.

Why Now? The Driving Forces Behind the Change

This push didn’t emerge from a vacuum. It’s the result of sustained pressure and changing societal values.

Overwhelming Public Support

A recent survey by WeWork revealed that a staggering 89% of Mexican workers favor a shorter workweek. This demand is deeply linked to a desire for flexibility, better mental health, and more time for family and personal pursuits. The mantra “Life isn’t just about work” has become a powerful rallying cry.

Economic and Productivity Arguments

Analysts, like those at BBVA Research, suggest this reduction could catalyze a significant structural shift. The idea is that fewer hours will force a greater reliance on technology, automation, and AI to maintain output, ultimately boosting long-term productivity. It’s a move from quantity of hours to quality of work.

Political Momentum and Related Reforms

The workweek reduction is part of a wider labor reform agenda. In December 2024, the Chamber of Deputies unanimously approved a major labor reform that includes rights for app-based workers, passing with 462 votes in favor. This creates positive momentum for the 40-hour week bill. Furthermore, there are parallel discussions about expanding mandatory paid holidays from 9 to 15 days, all pointing to a national reevaluation of workers’ rights.

Implications for Businesses and the Economy

The transition presents both challenges and opportunities. Employers will need to scrutinize operational efficiency, scheduling, and potentially invest in tools that allow teams to do more in less time. The key will be managing this shift without reducing employee pay, as the reform is about reducing hours, not wages. The concurrent minimum wage increase adds another layer for businesses to consider in their 2026-2030 planning.

“The reduction of the workweek in Mexico from 48 to 40 hours could represent a significant structural shift for the economy, in line with the adoption of more technology and AI.” – BBVA Research Analysis

For the broader economy, the goal is to improve overall well-being, which can lead to a more engaged, healthier, and ultimately more innovative workforce. The success of this policy will hinge on a collaborative transition between government, private sector, and workers.

What Comes Next? The Legislative Path

The proposal is now in the hands of Mexico’s Congress. The bill will be debated and potentially amended in the Senate. Given the overwhelming cross-party support shown for the recent app-worker reform, the political will for this change appears strong. Stakeholders across Mexico are watching closely, as this reform will redefine the standard Mexican work life for generations to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the 40-hour workweek officially start in Mexico?

The reform is currently a bill in Congress. The most common proposal outlines a gradual reduction starting potentially in 2027, cutting two hours per year until reaching a 40-hour week by 2030. The exact start date will be finalized when the law is passed and published.

Will my salary be reduced when the workweek is shortened?

No. The labor reform is designed to reduce the number of working hours, not the total pay. Employees’ salaries should remain the same for the shorter workweek. This is a key principle of the legislation.

Does this affect all workers in Mexico?

The reform applies to employees governed by the Federal Labour Law. It sets the new legal maximum for the standard workweek. Certain professions or roles with special regimes may have different provisions, but the 40-hour week will become the national standard.

What other labor changes are happening alongside this?

This is part of a broader push. The government has already announced a minimum wage increase for 2026. Congress is also considering expanding mandatory paid holidays from 9 to 15 days, and has recently passed a major reform granting new rights to app-based platform workers.