International Migrants Day 2026
A UN day recognising the contributions of migrants and the importance of protecting their rights.
Quick facts
- Date
- December 18
- Day of the week
- Friday in 2026
- Type
- International
- Observed in
- Global
- First observed
- 2000
- Established by
- United Nations General Assembly
- Led by
- International Organization for Migration (IOM)
- Hashtag
- #MigrantsDay
Overview
International Migrants Day, on December 18, recognises the millions of people who live outside their country of birth — their contributions to the economies and cultures of both their new and home countries, and the risks many face.
History
On December 18, 1990, the UN General Assembly adopted the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families. In 2000 it proclaimed December 18 as International Migrants Day.
How to celebrate
Listen to migrant stories
Read or hear first-hand accounts of migration.
Welcome newcomers
Support local groups that help migrants settle.
Wishes and messages
Greeting card
A 1080 × 1080 image, ready for WhatsApp, Facebook and Instagram.
Social media captions
Migration is part of the human story. #MigrantsDay
International Migrants Day dates
| Year | Date | Day of the week | Days from today |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | December 18 | Friday | 45 |
| 2027 | December 18 | Saturday | 410 |
| 2028 | December 18 | Monday | 776 |
| 2029 | December 18 | Tuesday | 1,141 |
| 2030 | December 18 | Wednesday | 1,506 |
| 2031 | December 18 | Thursday | 1,871 |
Frequently asked questions
When is International Migrants Day?
Every year on December 18.
Last updated November 2, 2026