Brazil has enacted a major labour reform that will gradually reduce the maximum working week from 44 hours to 40 hours, while guaranteeing two paid rest days per week without salary cuts. The constitutional amendment was approved by the Senate and formally promulgated by Congress in October 2026.

The reform ends the standard six-days-on, one-day-off work schedule, commonly known as the 6x1 system. It is expected to affect millions of workers, particularly those employed in retail, hospitality, food services, and other sectors where six-day schedules have been common.

What Changes Under Brazil’s New Workweek Rules?

Under the reform, employers will transition to a five-day workweek with two days of paid rest. The change will be implemented in stages rather than taking effect all at once.

The initial transition begins 60 days after enactment, when the maximum working week falls from 44 to 42 hours. The limit will then reduce to 40 hours after a further 12 months, completing the transition over approximately 14 months.

The reform maintains salaries despite the reduction in working hours. Certain alternative schedules may still be permitted through collective bargaining arrangements, subject to the rules established under the amendment.

How Many Workers Could Benefit?

Estimates vary depending on which groups are included. Brazil’s Ministry of Labour and Employment reported that around 14.7 million formal-sector workers currently follow the six-day work schedule and will need to adapt to the new rules.

A separate estimate from the Inter-Union Department of Statistics and Socioeconomic Studies (DIEESE) suggests that reducing the working week and ending the 6x1 schedule could benefit approximately 26.8 million formal and informal workers. Broader estimates reported by other outlets put the potential number above 30 million.

Workers in retail, hospitality, tourism, transport, and personal services are likely to experience some of the most significant scheduling changes.

Why Brazil Is Making the Change

The reform is intended to improve work-life balance, give employees more time for family and personal responsibilities, and reduce the strain associated with extended working schedules.

Supporters argue that additional rest can improve workers’ well-being and may contribute to productivity by reducing fatigue and work-related absences. The government has also highlighted the potential for employment growth as businesses reorganise shifts and staffing.

However, the economic effects will depend on how individual industries adapt. Businesses that require continuous customer service or around-the-clock operations may need to recruit additional employees, reorganise shifts, or invest in automation.

What It Means for Employers and HR Teams

The change will require employers to review working schedules, staffing levels, payroll processes, and workforce planning.

HR teams will need to identify employees affected by the transition, ensure compliance with the new limits, and coordinate with unions where collective agreements apply. Businesses with tight staffing models may also need to assess whether existing teams can maintain service levels under the shorter schedule.

For HR technology providers, the reform highlights the importance of workforce management tools that support shift planning, attendance tracking, payroll accuracy, and labour-law compliance.

Conclusion

Brazil’s transition to a 40-hour workweek marks a significant change in the country’s labour framework. By introducing two paid rest days and gradually reducing weekly working hours without salary cuts, the reform aims to improve working conditions for millions of people.

Its longer-term impact will depend on how employers manage the transition, maintain productivity, and balance operating costs with employees’ right to rest.