Countries With 4-Day Workweeks

The four-day workweek is catching on globally, with more countries testing pilot programs and even updating labor laws. Early results look promising, but wider adoption will depend on fine-tuning the model to suit different industries and work cultures.

Check out the list below to see which countries are giving this approach a try.

Belgium

In February 2022, Belgium became the first European country to legislate a four-day workweek, allowing employees to choose between four or five days without loss of pay. The law took effect on November 21, 2022.

Germany

A pilot program began on February 1, 2023, with 45 companies testing the four-day workweek for six months, spurred by labor shortages. A survey indicated that 71% of workers support this option.

Portugal

In June 2022, Portugal launched a government-funded pilot involving 39 private companies. Participants follow the "100:80:100 model," providing full pay for 80% of the time while maintaining productivity.

United Kingdom

Over 200 UK companies have now made the permanent switch to a four-day workweek with no loss of pay, covering sectors from marketing to charities and employing more than 5,000 people. Joe Ryle, from the 4 Day Week Foundation, emphasizes that this shift promotes well-being and productivity. A trial at South Cambridgeshire District Council began in early 2023, initially for desk-based staff and later expanded to waste collection services.

Scotland

A civil service trial began in January 2024, testing a 32-hour workweek without loss of pay to enhance work-life balance.

Wales

In January 2023, the Welsh Parliament recommended a pilot scheme for a four-day workweek, which the government is currently considering.

Spain

In December 2022, Spain launched a modest pilot program allowing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to test a shorter workweek without salary reductions, with government support for implementation.

Iceland

Between 2015 and 2019, Iceland conducted the world’s largest pilot of a 35 to 36-hour workweek, resulting in significant productivity gains. By 2022, nearly 90% of the workforce had benefited from reduced hours.

Japan

Following government announcements in 2021, larger companies are starting to explore the four-day workweek. Notable trials include Microsoft’s experiment in 2019, which resulted in a 40% productivity increase.

North America

In 2022, surveys showed strong interest in the four-day workweek among U.S. workers, with 92% in favor of the change. Canadian employers are also considering alternative work schedules post-pandemic.

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