Updated for FY 2026
Vacation Bonus Calculator (PrimaVacacional)
Calculate the mandatory vacation bonus in Mexico and stay fully compliant with Mexican labor law.
Note: Use this calculator to estimate the mandatory vacation bonus (prima vacacional) for employees in Mexico.
What Is a Prima Vacacional?
Understanding how Mexico’s mandatory vacation bonus works under labor law.
Why it matters
The vacation bonus (prima vacacional) is a mandatory benefit under Mexican labor law and applies every time an employee takes their legally earned vacation days. It is not optional and cannot be reduced, waived, or replaced.
For employers, correctly calculating and paying the vacation bonus is a critical compliance requirement. Errors, underpayments, or missed bonuses can lead to labor claims, inspections, and penalties. Since the bonus is tied to vacation days and seniority, accurate calculation is essential to remain compliant.
Qué es la Prima Vacacional?
Español
La prima vacacional es un pago adicional obligatorio que el patrón debe otorgar al trabajador cuando éste disfruta de sus vacaciones. De acuerdo con la Ley Federal del Trabajo, el monto mínimo es del 25% del salario correspondiente a los días de vacaciones. Este pago es independiente del salario ordinario y no puede sustituirse por ningún otro beneficio.
How it works
Four simple steps to calculate the vacation bonus correctly
Enter Daily Salary
Add the employee’s daily salary in MXN.
1
Select Vacation Days
Choose the number of vacation days taken or owed.
2
Apply Legal Bonus
The mandatory 25% vacation bonus is applied automatically.
3
See the total vacation bonus instantly.
4
Disclaimer: Illustrative purposes only. Actual amounts may vary based on salary structure, accrued days, and specific employment conditions.
Vacation Bonus Breakdown
FY 2026
Daily Salary
$900.00 MXN
Vacation day Earned
12 days
Vacation Pay (Base)
$10,800.00 MXN
Vacation Bonus Rate
25%
Total Vacation Bonus
$2,700.00 MXN
Total Vacation Payout
$13,500.00 MXN
Try the Vacation Bonus Calculator
Test different salary scenarios and calculate the vacation bonus in real time.
Key Facts
Essential information every employer should know about the Vacation Bonus in Mexico.
Important Details
The vacation bonus (prima vacacional) is mandatory under Mexican labor law.
The legal minimum is 25% of the employee’s daily salary for each vacation day taken.
It applies to all employees after completing one year of service, regardless of contract type.
The bonus must be paid together with vacation pay when the vacation is taken.
Unused vacation and the corresponding bonus must be paid upon termination or resignation.
Datos Clave
Español
La prima vacacional es un beneficio obligatorio conforme a la Ley Federal del Trabajo.
El mínimo legal es 25% del salario diario por cada día de vacaciones.
Aplica a todos los empleados después de un año de servicio, sin importar el tipo de contrato.
Debe pagarse junto con el salario de vacaciones al momento de tomar el descanso.
Las vacaciones no utilizadas y su prima deben pagarse al finalizar la relación laboral.
FAQs
How accurate is the Vacation Bonus calculator?
Our Vacation Bonus calculator follows the rules established by the Mexican Federal Labor Law (Articles 76, 78, and 80) and uses the legally required minimum of a 25% bonus on vacation pay. It provides a reliable estimate based on the salary and vacation days entered. Actual amounts may vary slightly depending on company policies (higher bonus percentages), variable salary components, or specific payroll practices. This tool is intended for planning, compliance checks, and informational purposes. Final payroll amounts should always reflect the employee’s actual salary structure and earned vacation days.
What information do I need to calculate the vacation bonus correctly?
To calculate an accurate vacation bonus, you should enter: - The employee’s daily or monthly salary - Number of vacation days taken or accrued - Any consistent variable compensation (if applicable) The calculator applies the legal minimum bonus percentage. The more precise the salary information, the more accurate the estimated vacation bonus will be.
Does the calculator include taxes or payroll withholdings?
No. The Vacation Bonus calculator focuses only on calculating the gross vacation bonus amount required by law. It does not calculate: - ISR withholding - IMSS or INFONAVIT contributions - Employer-side payroll taxes Tax treatment depends on exemptions (UMA limits) and payroll configuration and must be handled separately during payroll processing.
Can I use this calculator for budgeting and compliance planning?
Yes. This calculator is designed to help employers understand their legal obligation when employees take vacation or when vacation is paid at termination. It is especially useful for: - Budget planning - Estimating vacation liabilities - HR and payroll compliance reviews - Hiring and workforce planning in Mexico For final payroll execution, professional review is recommended.
Why might my payroll provider show a different vacation bonus amount?
Differences can occur due to: - A higher bonus percentage offered by the employer (above 25%) - Inclusion of variable pay in the salary base - Different vacation day balances - Tax exemptions or payroll timing - Rounding or internal payroll policies The calculator reflects the legal minimum framework. Payroll providers may apply additional rules or company-specific benefits.
