When do federal government employees return to the office and how often?

Executives move to five days in office from May 4, 2026. All other federal government employees shift to at least four days per week from July 6, 2026. Departments will set schedules to meet these minimums while managing accommodations and operational needs.

Does the policy apply across all departments and regions in Canada?

Yes, the Treasury Board policy covers core public administration and many agencies nationwide. Departments must apply a consistent attendance baseline while respecting accommodations. Implementation details can vary by workplace, but the four-day minimum for most roles becomes the common standard from July 6, 2026.

How could this affect Ottawa downtown recovery?

More in-office days should raise weekday foot traffic, transit ridership, and lunch-hour sales near federal buildings. That can help stabilize service businesses in the core. The effect may be moderated by space consolidation and planned reductions of about 40,000 positions through summer 2026.

What are key risks investors should watch?

Watch for union challenges that could delay or narrow the policy, departmental space reductions that limit office demand, and budget-driven cuts including about 40,000 planned job reductions. Also monitor sublease supply and renewal activity, which can signal whether office demand is truly improving.

Law and Government

Canada Federal Employees, February 06: 4-Day Office Return by July

ByHuzaifa Zahoor February 7, 2026February 7, 2026

Canada’s new return to office plan moves federal government employees to four days in office from July 6, 2026, with executives at five days from May 4. The Treasury Board policy tightens hybrid work and could lift Ottawa downtown recovery through higher foot traffic, office use, and weekday sales. We assess how this shift may affect transit, retail, and office demand, plus how union response and planned job reductions could change outcomes for investors watching government hubs across Canada.