Tipping by Country: A Global Guide (2026)
Tipping customs vary wildly from country to country. What's generous in one place can be confusing or even offensive in another. This guide breaks down tipping norms for popular destinations so you never have an awkward moment at the table.
Why Tipping Customs Matter
Whether you're traveling abroad or hosting international guests, understanding local tipping customs is one of the easiest ways to show respect and avoid embarrassment. A generous tip in New York might confuse a server in Tokyo. A perfectly normal tip in London might seem stingy in Miami.
The root cause of these differences is how service workers are compensated. In countries where tipping is essential (like the US), servers earn below minimum wage and rely on tips. In countries where tipping is rare (like Japan or South Korea), service workers earn fair wages and excellent service is considered part of the job, not something that requires a bonus.
This guide covers 16 popular destinations with everything you need to know about tipping etiquette in each country. Tap any country below to get the full breakdown.
Choose a Country
Tap a country for the full tipping guide.
United States
15–25%
Tipping is essential and expected for most services.
Read guide🇨🇦Canada
15–20%
Similar to the US with slightly lower expectations.
Read guide🇬🇧United Kingdom
10–15%
Appreciated but not obligatory in most situations.
Read guide🇯🇵Japan
Not expected
Tipping can actually be considered rude in many settings.
Read guide🇲🇽Mexico
10–15%
Common in tourist areas and for sit-down dining.
Read guide🇰🇷South Korea
Not common
Tipping is rare and not part of the culture.
Read guide🇩🇪Germany
5–10%
Round up the bill or add 5–10% for good service.
Read guide🇫🇷France
Round up
Service is included by law. Rounding up is a kind gesture.
Read guide🇮🇹Italy
5–10%
Coperto is standard. Extra tips are optional but appreciated.
Read guide🇦🇺Australia
Not expected
High minimum wage means tipping is optional.
Read guide🇧🇷Brazil
10% included
Most restaurants add a 10% service charge to the bill.
Read guide🇨🇳China
Not expected
Tipping is not part of Chinese culture and can cause confusion.
Read guide🇹🇭Thailand
Not expected
Not required, but small tips appreciated in tourist areas.
Read guide🇪🇸Spain
5–10%
Leave the change or round up at restaurants and bars.
Read guide🇦🇷Argentina
10%
10% at restaurants is a strong social norm.
Read guide🇦🇪UAE / Dubai
10–15%
Hotel restaurants often add a service charge; extra cash tips are appreciated.
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