This means all routine consular services, including visa processing, passport services, and general public inquiries, will be unavailable for the day.

Normal operations are expected to resume on Tuesday, February 17. However, emergency services for U.S. citizens will remain available throughout the closure, covering urgent cases such as loss of travel documents, serious illness, arrest, or death.

President’s Day falls on the third Monday of February as a federal holiday, providing Americans with a three-day weekend while honoring the nation’s leaders.

In 2026, this lands on February 16.

The history of President’s Day dates back to 1800, following the death of President George Washington in 1799.

His February 22 birthday became a day of remembrance, with the holiday officially established in 1879 under President Rutherford B. Hayes.

Originally celebrated on Washington’s actual birthday, the observance was moved in 1971 following the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which shifted certain holidays to Mondays to create more three-day weekends for workers.

While officially titled “Washington’s Birthday” at the federal level, the holiday became popularly known as Presidents’ Day and is now viewed as a day to celebrate all U.S. presidents, past and present.

It also acknowledges Abraham Lincoln, whose birthday falls on February 12, bridging the gap between these two iconic American leaders.

Most financial institutions and government agencies, including courts, government buildings, and the USPS, are closed on Presidents Day, with no mail delivery and no trading at U.S. stock markets.

However, retail stores, malls, grocery outlets, restaurants, gas stations, and convenience stores typically stay open, often hosting major holiday sales.

The holiday commemorates all former U.S. presidents’ achievements and sacrifices, serving as a time for patriotic remembrance.

Many patriotic and historical groups stage celebrations, re-enactments, and other events, while schools teach students about the accomplishments of United States presidents.

From museum exhibitions to Mount Vernon celebrations honoring George Washington, Americans use this day to reflect on the enduring principles of democracy and the importance of presidential leadership in shaping the nation.

The temporary shutdown is part of the embassy’s annual holiday calendar and mirrors closures of U.S. government institutions worldwide in recognition of the national holiday.

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