Tipping Customs by Country (2026)
| Country / Region | Restaurant tip | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 15–20% | Not included; 20% for good service. Tipped minimum wage varies by state. |
| Canada | 15–20% | Similar to U.S.; 18% common in cities. |
| Mexico | 10–15% | Sometimes a 10% service charge is added; tip on top if service was good. |
| United Kingdom | 10–12% (if not included) | Check for a discretionary service charge; no tip if a 12.5% charge is added. |
| France | Round up / 5–10% | "Service compris" means service is included by law. |
| Germany | 5–10% (round up) | Tip ("Trinkgeld") given by rounding up the total. |
| Italy | Round up / 5–10% | Service often included ("coperto" may apply); small tip appreciated. |
| Spain | 5–10% (optional) | Not expected; small change left for good service. |
| Japan | None | Tipping is not customary and can be refused. |
| South Korea | None | No tipping culture. |
| China | None (local); small at int'l hotels | Not expected in restaurants; bell staff at luxury hotels may be tipped. |
| Australia | None / round up | Fair wages; tipping not expected but appreciated for great service. |
Read the bill first
In many countries a service charge is already added (U.K., France, some cruise lines). Tipping on top of an included service charge double-pays. The single highest-leverage habit is to scan the receipt for "service compris," "service charge," or "discretionary 12.5%."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which countries do NOT expect tips?
Japan and South Korea have strong no-tipping norms — service is included and tipping can be refused or confusing. In China, tipping is uncommon in local restaurants, though hotel bell staff at international hotels may be tipped. Across much of Northern Europe (e.g., Iceland, Denmark) service is included in the bill.
Is 15–20% standard everywhere?
No. The 15–20% restaurant tip is a U.S. and Canadian norm. In most of Europe 5–10% is typical when service is not already included, and in many countries rounding up or leaving small change suffices.
Does the OBBBA no-tax-on-tips apply outside the U.S.?
No. The U.S. federal no-tax-on-tips deduction (up to $25,000, 2025–2028) applies to U.S. federal income tax on qualified U.S. tips only. Foreign tipping norms and local taxes are separate matters.