RBI Bank Holiday: How Bank Holidays Work in India (2026 Guide)

RBI bank holidays are the official days when banks across India remain closed, as notified under the Negotiable Instruments Act. These holidays affect branch banking, but digital services usually continue.

Quick Summary

• Declared by: RBI (with state-wise variations)
• Applies to: Public & private sector bank branches
• Types: National, state-wise, and weekend holidays
• Online banking: Mostly available 24×7

Types of RBI Bank Holidays

National Bank Holidays (All-India)

Banks are closed across India on major national days, such as:

• Republic Day
• Independence Day
• Gandhi Jayanti

These are common to all states and UTs.

State-Wise / Regional Bank Holidays

• Based on local festivals, events, or anniversaries
• Vary from state to state
• Example: regional New Year, state formation day, local festivals

A bank may be open in one state and closed in another on the same day.

Weekend Bank Holidays (As per RBI)

• All Sundays
• 2nd and 4th Saturdays of every month

Banks are open on:

• 1st, 3rd, and 5th Saturdays (where applicable)

Are Banks Completely Closed on RBI Holidays?

• Branch services: Closed
• ATMs: Available
• UPI: Working
• Net Banking / Mobile Banking: Working
• IMPS / NEFT / RTGS:
  • Online: Usually available 24×7
  • Branch-based: Closed

What You Cannot Do on RBI Bank Holidays

• Visit branch for cash deposit/withdrawal
• Submit cheques or DDs
• Branch-based RTGS/NEFT
• Account opening or KYC at branch

What You Can Still Do

• Transfer money online
• Pay bills & recharge
• Check balance & statements
• Use ATM services
• Use UPI apps

FAQs – RBI Bank Holidays

RBI bank holidays mainly affect branch banking, not digital services. While banks are closed on Sundays, 2nd & 4th Saturdays, and notified holidays, online banking continues smoothly.