Reform to the Mexican Constitution: Introduction of the 40-Hour Work Week

After years of discussion and legislative debate, Mexico has officially taken a historic step toward reducing working hours. On March 3, 2026, a special evening edition of the Diario Oficial de la Federación (DOF) published the reform to Article 123, Section A of the Mexican Constitution, establishing the transition to a 40-hour work week.

Gradual Implementation (2027–2030)

The reform introduces a phased reduction of the work week, designed to allow employers and workers to adapt progressively while maintaining current wage levels.

The schedule for implementation is as follows:

2027: Work week reduced to 46 hours
2028: Work week reduced to 44 hours
2029: Work week reduced to 42 hours
2030: Full implementation of the 40-hour work week

This gradual approach reduces working hours by two hours each year, ensuring a smoother transition for businesses and the labor market.

Historic Constitutional Change

This reform marks a significant milestone in Mexican labor history. When the Constitution of 1917 was enacted, Mexico became the first country in the world to constitutionally establish a 48-hour work week. More than a century later, the country once again updates its labor framework to reflect modern working conditions and international trends favoring shorter work weeks.

Conclusion

The shift toward a 40-hour work week represents a major reform aimed at improving work-life balance while maintaining economic stability. With its gradual implementation beginning in 2027 and full adoption by 2030, Mexico enters a new chapter in the evolution of its labor rights.