Colombia has increased the pay surcharge for employees working on Sundays and holidays to 90% of the basic salary [1].
This change represents a significant shift in labor costs for employers and a boost in income for millions of workers across the country. By increasing compensation for rest-day labor, the government aims to align wages with worker wellbeing and productivity goals.
The new rate became effective on July 1, 2026 [1]. This adjustment is a direct result of Law 2466 of 2025, a labor reform approved last year to modernize the country's employment framework [1].
Before this increase, the surcharge stood at 80% of the basic salary [1]. Older regulations had previously set the rate at 75% until June 30, 2025 [2]. The transition to 90% ensures that those working during traditional periods of rest receive higher financial compensation.
Companies operating in Colombia must now adjust their payroll calculations to meet these legal requirements. The reform seeks to create a better balance between the demands of productivity, and the rights of the workforce [3].
While some reports previously suggested the increase depended on further congressional approval, the implementation of the 90% surcharge is now scheduled as part of the established law [1]. Employers are expected to apply the new calculation to all applicable holiday and Sunday shifts starting this month [2].
“The Sunday and holiday work surcharge will rise to 90% of the basic salary.”
The increase in the Sunday and holiday surcharge is a key pillar of Colombia's 2025 labor reform, signaling a policy shift toward stronger worker protections. For businesses, this represents a rise in operational costs, which may lead to changes in staffing schedules or a reduction in holiday shifts to mitigate expenses. For the labor market, it increases the opportunity cost of working on rest days, potentially incentivizing more employees to take their scheduled time off.
