About International Migrants Day
International Migrants Day is observed on 18 December. Proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in 2000, it recognises the contributions of migrants and calls for their rights, safety and dignity to be respected.
The UN General Assembly proclaimed 18 December as International Migrants Day. The date marks the adoption, on 18 December 1990, of the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families.
People move for work, study, family, safety or a better future. Migrants contribute to the places they settle in and the places they come from, yet many face exploitation, discrimination and long separation from loved ones. The day celebrates their contributions and calls for safe, orderly and fair migration.
How it is marked
The UN, the International Organization for Migration and community groups hold events that share migrants' stories and highlight their rights. Schools and colleges run discussions on migration and belonging. Workplaces recognise colleagues who have moved from other states or countries. India has one of the world's largest diasporas, and many people move within the country for work, so the day speaks to many Indian families, both those who have moved and those who wait at home.
What to write
Write to someone far from home with warmth, or thank them for what they bring.
- Dubai must be hot this week. Proud of everything you're building out there. Call Amma on Sunday.
- Thank you for your hard work and the courage it took to start over. You belong here.
- Years in Bengaluru and you still make the best fish curry outside Kerala. Everyone back home is proud of you.
How to wish someone on International Migrants Day
the courage of people who build lives far from home, and the families who stay connected to them
Write a few lines in your own words, pick a design and share it as one link on WhatsApp, Instagram or anywhere else. They open an animated card made just for them, with no app and no sign-up.
Language tip: English, Hindi + recipient language.
Frequently asked questions
Why is International Migrants Day on 18 December?
On 18 December 1990, the UN General Assembly adopted the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families. The day marks that anniversary.
Who is considered a migrant?
A migrant is generally understood as a person who moves away from their usual place of residence, within a country or across borders, for any reason. This includes people moving for work, study or family, as well as people forced to leave their homes.
How can offices mark International Migrants Day?
Offices can recognise colleagues who have relocated for work, offer support to people settling into a new city and review policies so everyone is treated fairly. Helping a new colleague find their way also counts.
When is International Migrants Day in 2026?
International Migrants Day 2026 falls on Friday, 18 December 2026.
What is International Migrants Day?
International Migrants Day is observed on 18 December. Proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in 2000, it recognises the contributions of migrants and calls for their rights, safety and dignity to be respected.
Is International Migrants Day a public holiday?
Holiday status for International Migrants Day varies by state, employer and community in India, so check your local holiday list.
How do I wish someone on International Migrants Day?
Focus on the courage of people who build lives far from home, and the families who stay connected to them. On Kehdoo you can write a short message, pick a design and share a free animated International Migrants Day card as a single link, with no app or sign-up needed.
Sources
Last verified by the Kehdoo team on .