Working hours in Mexico

Working hours and overtime laws in Mexico

Mexico regulates employee working hours and overtime through federal labor legislation. Different rules apply according to shift type and include restrictions for maximum hours and overtime compensation.

Standard working hours

The maximum number of hours depends on the type of shift. Employers and employees must agree in advance to the specific hours worked.

• Day shift (6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.): 8 hours per day, up to 48 hours per week
• Night shift (8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.): 7 hours per day, up to 42 hours per week
• Mixed shift (includes both day and night hours, with fewer than 3.5 hours at night): 7.5 hours per day, up to 45 hours per week

Hours worked beyond these limits qualify as overtime, except under approved extraordinary circumstances.

Overtime regulations

Overtime is permitted within legal limits. There are specific rules for hours, compensation, and employer obligations.

• No more than 3 extra hours per day and no more than 3 times per week
• First 9 overtime hours per week must be paid at double the regular wage
• Overtime beyond 9 hours per week must be paid at triple the regular wage

Employees cannot be required to work overtime regularly, except under extraordinary circumstances. Employers must record and compensate all authorized overtime hours.

Rest periods and breaks

Employees in Mexico are entitled to breaks and regular days of rest as outlined by law.

• Minimum daily break of 30 minutes during the workday
• At least one full paid day off after every six days of work
• Sundays worked require an extra premium of at least 25 percent above the normal daily wage

Employment contracts or collective bargaining agreements may provide additional rest entitlements. In continuous operations, the employer and employee must agree on which days will serve as rest days.

Work on rest days and holidays

Employees cannot be obliged to work on designated rest days or vacation days unless absolutely necessary. If work is performed on these days, special compensation applies.

• Double the regular wage for hours worked on rest days, in addition to base pay
• Extra compensation for work done on recognized holidays or vacation days, as established by labor law

Employer obligations

Employers must comply with all legal requirements for recording hours, paying overtime, and ensuring adequate rest. Penalties apply for non-compliance.