Public Holiday Calendar 2026
See every public holiday across 30 expat destinations. Compare countries, filter by month, and calculate work days.
Select a country above to see its 2026 public holidays
Why Public Holidays Matter for Expats
Banks & Government
Banks, post offices, and government offices (including immigration) close on public holidays. Plan visa renewals and banking around closures.
Shopping & Services
Supermarkets may have reduced hours. Small shops and markets often close entirely. Stock up on essentials the day before major holidays.
Work & Meetings
If you work remotely with a local team or clients, their holidays may differ from yours. Use this calendar to avoid scheduling conflicts.
Travel & Prices
Holiday weekends bring domestic travel surges. Flights and hotels spike during long weekends and festival periods. Book early or avoid peak days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do expats need to know about public holidays abroad?
Public holidays affect daily life significantly — banks close, government offices shut, transport schedules change, and shops may have limited hours. Knowing holidays in advance lets you plan errands, avoid surprises, and schedule important appointments around closures. Some holidays also mean travel surges and price increases.
How many public holidays do most countries have?
Most countries have between 10 and 20 public holidays per year. Mexico has 7 mandatory paid holidays, Thailand has 16 national holidays, Spain has 14 national holidays (plus regional ones), and Indonesia has 16 public holidays. Some countries like India and the Philippines have 18-20+ due to multi-faith observances.
Do all businesses close on public holidays?
It depends on the country and type of holiday. In Europe, most shops and offices close on major holidays. In Latin America and Southeast Asia, restaurants, tourist businesses, and shopping malls typically stay open, but banks and government offices close. Supermarkets often have reduced hours. Always check locally for specific closures.
Do public holidays affect my visa or residency applications?
Yes. Government offices and immigration offices close on public holidays, which can delay visa processing. If your visa expires on a holiday, some countries grant automatic extensions to the next business day, but others do not. Always plan visa renewals well in advance and account for holiday closures.
Are there regional holidays not shown here?
Yes, many countries have regional or state-level holidays in addition to national ones. For example, Spain has community-level holidays, Germany has state holidays, and Mexico has some state-specific observances. This tool shows national public holidays that apply across each country. Check locally for regional holidays in your specific city.
