How Public Holidays Work in Mexico
Public holidays in Mexico include mandatory paid holidays designated by federal law, plus civic observances that may be moved to Mondays to create long weekends under the 'Puente' (Bridge) system.
2025 Holiday Calendar
States and municipalities may have additional local observances, particularly for patron saint festivals, though these are not federally mandated as paid time off.
Mexico Holidays
How Public Holidays Work in Mexico
Public holidays in Mexico include mandatory paid holidays designated by federal law, plus civic observances that may be moved to Mondays to create long weekends under the 'Puente' (Bridge) system.
Seven mandatory paid holidays are legally protected under the Federal Labor Law. Employees must receive double pay if required to work on these days.
States and municipalities may have additional local observances, particularly for patron saint festivals, though these are not federally mandated as paid time off.
Most holidays are observed on their actual calendar date. However, some civic holidays are moved to the nearest Monday to create extended weekends ('Puentes').
Mexico
Independence Day
Mexico's most important national holiday, celebrating independence from Spain in 1810. Marked by patriotic ceremonies, el Grito de Independencia, parades, and festivities nationwide.
Revolution Day
Commemorates the Mexican Revolution of 1910. Observed on the third Monday of November, creating a long weekend for many workers.
Day of the Dead
Traditional Mexican holiday honoring deceased loved ones on November 1-2. While not a mandatory paid holiday, it is deeply significant culturally and many employers grant time off.
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Impact on Payroll & Leave
Mexican labor law provides comprehensive worker protections with strict compliance requirements. Employers must carefully track mandatory benefits including aguinaldo, vacation accrual, profit sharing (PTU), and IMSS contributions.
Learn more about MexicoMandatory holiday work requires 200% premium (triple pay total). Overtime is 200% for first 9 hours per week, 300% thereafter. Sunday work requires 125% premium (225% total).
One mandatory day of rest per week (typically Sunday). Meal breaks of 30-60 minutes. Night shift workers (10pm-6am) work 42-hour weeks, not 48.
Minimum 12 days annual leave after one year, increasing with seniority. 12 weeks maternity leave (100% pay), 5 days paternity leave (100% pay). Sick leave at 60% pay through IMSS.
IMSS registration is mandatory for all employees. Profit sharing (PTU) applies to profitable companies. Severance requirements vary by termination cause. State labor boards handle disputes.
Are employees compensated if a public holiday falls on a weekend?
If a mandatory holiday falls on a non-working day, employees do not receive additional compensation unless they are required to work. Some civic holidays are moved to Monday to create 'puentes' (bridge weekends).
What happens if an employee falls ill while on annual leave?
If illness occurs during vacation and is properly certified by IMSS, those days may be converted to sick leave rather than vacation days, depending on company policy and the timing of medical certification.
Are public holidays paid time off?
Yes, all seven mandatory holidays are paid. If worked, employees receive triple pay (regular wage plus 200% premium). Civic holidays may be observed at the employer's discretion.
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Disclaimer: This information is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult official government sources and legal counsel for compliance matters.