Microsoft will require employees to return to the office at least three days a week, starting with those near its Seattle headquarters in February 2026. This decision marks a shift in the company's remote work policy, which was previously more flexible compared to other tech giants. Employees can request exceptions to this mandate, but the new policy reflects increased pressure for in-person collaboration.

Microsoft has announced a new return-to-office (RTO) policy requiring employees to work in the office three days a week. This decision is based on data indicating that in-person collaboration enhances energy, empowerment, and productivity, particularly in the context of innovation in the AI era.