El June 25, 2025 marks a milestone in Colombian labor legislation with the official sanction of the New labor reforma project promoted and approved by the Congress of the Republic and supported by the National Government. The sanction ceremony was held in an event open to the public in the Plaza de Armas of Bogotá, where President Gustavo Petro signed the new law and directed a speech about its importance and scope.
One of the most relevant and debated points of the reform is the adjustment in the night day and the increase in work and holiday surcharges. Traditionally, the night day in Colombia began at 9 p.m., but with the new law, this schedule is ahead at 7 at night. In addition, surcharges are increased for those who work in Sundays and holidays, which will now receive the additional 100% on the ordinary value of the hour worked.
When do these changes enter into force?
Despite the presidential sanction and the immediate promulgation of the law, the national government has clarified that changes in the night day and the increase in surcharges will not be immediately applied. This means that there will be a transition period before employers must adjust their payment systems and schedules according to the new regulations.
The National Government must regulate the implementation of these changes, defining the deadlines and mechanisms for companies to adapt their internal processes. It is expected that in the coming months circulars and guides will be issued that clarify doubts about the application of the new night day and the Sunday and holiday surcharges.
The sanction event: a symbolic and political act
The signing of the labor reform was accompanied by a symbolic act in the Plaza de Armas, attended by representatives of unions, businessmen, workers and members of the government. President Gustavo Petro took the opportunity to highlight the importance of the new law in the protection of labor rights and the dignification of work in Colombia.
Petro stressed that the reform seeks to balance labor relations and guarantee better conditions for workers, especially in relation to remuneration for night work and on mandatory rest days.
Implications for workers and employers
- Workers: Employees who work after 7 at night will see a greater income for night surcharges. Those who work on Sundays and holidays will receive more fair compensation, by duplicating the value of the time worked these days.
- Employers: Companies must adjust their payroll systems and work schedules to comply with the new legislation. This could imply an increase in labor costs, especially for sectors that depend on work at extended schedules or during weekends.
