International Day of Family Remittances
Billions sent home by migrant workers — the quiet engine of global development.
About
The International Day of Family Remittances on June 16 recognises the extraordinary economic contribution made by migrant workers who send money home to their families. In 2023, global remittance flows to low- and middle-income countries exceeded $650 billion — more than three times the total of official development aid. For millions of families in countries like the Philippines, India, Mexico, Bangladesh, and Nigeria, remittances are the primary source of income, paying for food, school fees, healthcare, and housing. The individuals behind these transfers often work in difficult conditions in countries far from home, sacrificing time with their families to provide for them financially. The day highlights the importance of reducing the cost of sending remittances — the global average is around 6%, and every percentage point saved goes directly into the hands of families rather than financial intermediaries. It also recognises the emotional and social dimensions of migration: the ties maintained across borders through love, obligation, and money.
History
The UN General Assembly adopted a resolution in December 2018 establishing June 16 as the International Day of Family Remittances, proposed by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). The day coincides with IFAD's annual report on remittance flows. The UN's Sustainable Development Goal 10 specifically calls for reducing remittance transfer costs to below 3% by 2030.
Where It's Observed
Cultural Context
US United States
The US is the world's largest source of international remittances, driven by its large migrant worker communities from Latin America, Asia, and Africa. World Remittances Day in the US includes advocacy around immigration policy, wire transfer fees, and the economic contributions of immigrant communities.
KR South Korea
South Korea both sends and receives remittances. Korean workers abroad send money home, while foreign workers — particularly from Southeast Asia — send a significant volume of remittances from Korea. The day highlights both the contributions of Korean overseas workers and the rights of foreign workers in Korea.
JP Japan
Japan has a growing foreign workforce, particularly from Southeast Asia, and remittances sent from Japan are significant. The day draws attention to the high fees often charged by Japanese remittance services and the financial pressures on Japan's foreign workers.
How to Participate
- 01Learn how much it costs to send money internationally from your country
- 02Read about the lives of migrant workers and the families they support from abroad
- 03Advocate for reducing remittance fees — lowering costs saves money for the poorest families
- 04Reflect on someone in your life who has sacrificed proximity to family for economic necessity
Frequently asked questions
When is International Day of Family Remittances?+
International Day of Family Remittances is observed annually on June 16. The date is fixed each year — June 16 — and does not shift based on the lunar calendar or weekday.
What is International Day of Family Remittances?+
The International Day of Family Remittances on June 16 recognises the extraordinary economic contribution made by migrant workers who send money home to their families. In 2023, global remittance flows to low- and middle-income countries exceeded $650 billion — more than three times the total of off…
Is International Day of Family Remittances a public holiday?+
International Day of Family Remittances is an international observance or awareness day, not a public holiday in most countries. It does not typically result in days off work or school closures, though some countries and organisations hold official events.
How can I participate in International Day of Family Remittances?+
Learn how much it costs to send money internationally from your country Read about the lives of migrant workers and the families they support from abroad Advocate for reducing remittance fees — lowering costs saves money for the poorest families These are some of the most accessible ways to engage with the day's purpose.
Which countries observe International Day of Family Remittances?+
Global — IFAD and UN initiative.
Mark the date
Download a free printable calendar for 2026 and never miss International Day of Family Remittances.
US United States
United Kingdom
Australia
Canada
KR South Korea
JP Japan