Colombians will lose their much sought-after LABOR LAW: you can still use it

Take advantage of your right to take a paid day off to spend time with family, friends or the quiet of your home.

Starting in July 2026, Colombian workers will lose their right to “Family Day,” a work perk that allowed them to enjoy time with their loved ones.

This measure is consequential gradual implementation of Act 2101 of 2021which establishes a reduction of working hours to a maximum of 42 hours per week. The law aims to improve the quality of life and productivity of workers, but it also provides that employers will no longer be required to give two days every six months to share with family.

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“Family Day” was established by Law 1857 in 2017which allows employees to take paid time off every six months. However, with the gradual reduction of working hours, this right will be affected.

The first phase of this reduction began in 2023, when the working day was reduced to 47 hours per week; It will later be reduced to 46 hours in July 2025 and finally to 42 hours in July 2026.

Since the completion of this transition, Employers will be exempted from providing “Family Day”, which has caused workers to worry about work-life balance.

The cancellation of “Family Day” also implies that other benefits related to entertainment and cultural activities will be eliminated or proportionally adjusted.

This led to a discussion about implications for family well-being and work productivity. While some argue that the reduced hours can allow for a better work-life balance, others worry that missing out on a special day will have a negative impact on family dynamics.

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What happens if your company denies you a family day?

If your company denies you Family Days, there are several considerations and actions you can take to ensure your right is preserved. According to Law 1857 of 2017, all employers in Colombia are obliged to give their employees two days off per year to share with their families, one in each semester. This law is designed to promote family integration and work-life balance.

Obligations of the employer

The law clearly states that employers must promote this day, and they have three options to fulfill this obligation:

  • Organize a training day so that workers can spend time in the company of their families.
  • Manage the event through the family compensation fund to which the employees belong.
  • Provide paid days off without affecting rest days.

If the employer cannot manage these days, he must allow the workers to spend this time with their families without affecting their normal rest time.

What to do if you were denied a day

If your company denies you Family Days, you can do the following:

  • Inconsistency of documents– Record communication with the employer about the day requested and any negative responses.
  • Consult the Ministry of Labour: If you believe that your right is being violated, you can file a formal complaint with the responsible institution, as this institution supervises the implementation of labor regulations.
  • Review your employment contract: Make sure there are no clauses in your contract that contradict what the law says.
  • Seek legal advice: If the situation persists, consider obtaining legal advice to better understand your rights and possible next steps.

Consequences for the employer

If an employer fails to comply with this obligation, it may face sanctions, including fines, imposed by the Ministry of Labour. In addition, it is important to note that employers cannot demand proof of the use of this day off, as it is an employee’s right.

If your company denies you Family Days, then legal resources at your disposal to enforce your right. The law protects workers in this regard, and it is important to know your employment rights in order to act accordingly.

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