Microsoft’s executive vice president and chief people officer, Amy Coleman, announced a new workplace policy that reshapes the company’s flexible work expectations. Beginning in late February 2026, employees who live within 50 miles of a Microsoft office, particularly those in the Puget Sound region, will be expected to spend at least three days each week in the office. This marks a major update under the Microsoft return to office framework.

This policy will unfold in phases. The first stage will begin in the Puget Sound region, followed by other U.S. locations, and later expand to international offices. The requirement applies to anyone within a reasonable distance of a Microsoft office, though exceptions will be considered after review. This is part of how Microsoft office policy is being standardized across locations.

Who Can Opt Out

Microsoft recognizes that not all roles align with this schedule. Employees in client-facing positions such as account management, consulting, and field marketing will continue to maintain flexibility since their responsibilities often require working directly with customers outside office premises. This flexibility is a reflection of the Microsoft hybrid work approach.

Employees who face long or complex commutes, or whose work is not tied to an office setting, can also request exceptions. The deadline for submitting these requests is September 19. Employees making such requests will still be working within the larger framework of Microsoft in-office requirements.

More Than Three Days?

While three days in the office is the baseline, some teams may be asked to attend more frequently. Depending on the specific needs of a business group, leadership may set expectations at four or even five days each week. The policy is designed as a framework that can be adapted, rather than a rigid minimum. This forms part of the broader Microsoft work schedule guidelines.

Why Now, and What’s Behind It

According to Microsoft, data showed that teams working together in person tend to deliver stronger results. Employees reported feeling more energized and collaborating more effectively when they shared the same space. This evidence was central to the Microsoft return to office strategy.

This shift comes after recent headcount reductions that affected around 15,000 roles. While some employees speculated that the new policy might be a subtle way to encourage further departures, Coleman clarified that this was not the intent. She emphasized that the change is focused on strengthening collaboration, particularly in areas such as artificial intelligence and customer engagement. The Microsoft new workplace rules highlight collaboration as a core driver of future success.

What’s Next for Employees

The company will provide additional details during an internal Employee Town Hall on September 11, led by Coleman and CEO Satya Nadella. This is part of the rollout where Microsoft sets new return-to-office schedule details will be shared.

Employees in the Puget Sound region will receive personalized emails with specific instructions. Managers across the company will be given tools and resources through the Managers@Microsoft portal to guide their teams through the transition. Employees in other regions should expect updates and directions from their executive vice presidents or local leadership teams. The focus is on ensuring a smooth transition as Microsoft employees return to office.

What This Really Means

The updated workplace policy reflects Microsoft’s effort to bring structure to its approach to Microsoft hybrid work. By setting clear expectations, the company aims to encourage stronger collaboration while still offering room for flexibility where needed.

For employees living close to a Microsoft office, the expectation is clear: prepare for a three-day in-office rhythm starting February 2026. For those whose roles allow greater remote flexibility, there remains an opportunity to request adjustments. This is one of the key outcomes of the revised Microsoft office policy.

In essence, Microsoft is signaling a careful but determined Microsoft return to office. The emphasis on collaboration, especially in areas tied to innovation and customer needs, highlights the company’s belief that meaningful progress is often best achieved when teams share the same space. As Microsoft employees return to office, the Microsoft work schedule becomes central to how teams organize their time. Ultimately, this shows how Microsoft sets new return-to-office schedule details are shaping the future of work.