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Canadian public sector workers are entering 2026 with stricter expectations around in-office work. Several provinces are ending broad hybrid policies, while others continue to review their approach. The result is a fragmented set of rules that vary widely by jurisdiction, according to Yahoo Finance.
Ontario and Alberta Move to Full-Time Office Work
Ontario is the first major province to implement a full return. As of Jan. 5, provincial government employees are expected to work on-site five days a week.
Alberta will follow in February. The province has said full-time office work is intended to improve collaboration, accountability, and public service delivery.
Other Provinces Hold Hybrid Policies
Manitoba, British Columbia, and New Brunswick continue to allow hybrid work arrangements. Newfoundland and Labrador is reviewing its remote work policy. The Northwest Territories is also reviewing its rules but has said it does not plan to require employees to work on-site five days a week.
Federal Government Signals Changes Without a Timeline
The federal government has said it plans to increase office attendance but has not released details. Prime Minister Mark Carney has said expectations may differ by role and seniority and that discussions with unions are ongoing.
For now, federal employees must work in the office at least three days a week. Executives are required to attend four days. Treasury Board officials have confirmed that no final plan has been approved.
Private Sector Also Increases Office Attendance
Several large employers have already tightened their policies. BMO, Scotiabank, and RBC now require staff to be in the office four days per week. Amazon has moved to a five-day, in-office requirement for corporate employees.
Unions Push Back
Public sector unions have criticized the shift. Ontario’s provincial employees union has said the move to full-time office work ignores the realities faced by many workers. The federal public service union has warned it will oppose major changes introduced during collective bargaining.
Labor experts expect further resistance, as many workers value remote work and view it as part of job quality.
Cities Watch Closely
Office attendance has affected downtown economies, especially in Ottawa, where many public servants live and work. Reduced foot traffic during the pandemic hurt central business districts, while suburban areas saw growth.
City leaders have said a modest increase in office attendance could help downtown recovery, while some federal representatives argue that continued flexibility supports regional economies and reduces congestion.
