Asia Pacific: Processing Delays and Closures Around Lunar New Year
January 20, 2026
At a Glance
- Millions of people are expected to travel throughout East and Southeast Asia during the Lunar New Year holiday season.
- Travelers should be aware that government offices in many observing countries will be closed during this time, which will cause travel-related delays and government and business interruptions.
- Visa and permit applicants should submit applications as early as possible as applications submitted nearer to closure dates may not be accepted or acted upon until government offices reopen.
The situation
Millions of people are expected to travel throughout East and Southeast Asia during the Lunar New Year holiday season. Travel-related delays and government and business interruptions will peak around February 16-20, 2026.
To meet travel demand, some airlines have increased flight options, while railways have added additional trains. However, possible poor weather may exacerbate delays.
A closer look
Government offices for the following countries will be closed on the following dates:
Brunei: February 17, 2026 (Lunar Year) and February 23, 2026 (National Day). The fasting month is expected to begin on February 19, 2026 (subject to moon sighting). Public offices are likely to close on the first day and operate until 2 p.m. during Ramadan, which may cause processing delays.
China: February 15-23, 2026
Hong Kong SAR: February 17-19, 2026
Indonesia: February 16-17, 2026
Macau: February 16 (afternoon), 17-19 (inclusive), 2026
Myanmar: February 12-13, 2026 (Union Day), February 16-17, 2026 (Lunar New Year)
New Zealand: The Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in Auckland is closed on February 16-18, 2026.
Philippines: February 17, 2026
Singapore: February 16-17, 2026
South Korea: February 16-18, 2026
Taiwan: February 16-20 and 27, 2026
Vietnam: February 14-22, 2026
Impact
Due to government and business closures during the Lunar New Year, travelers should make their travel plans in advance and should expect travel delays and interruptions.
Visa and permit applicants should submit applications as early as possible and should contact their processing office to determine exact closure dates and the effect on individual applications. Applications submitted nearer to closure dates may not be accepted or acted upon until government offices reopen.
This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen.
