Hong Kong raises domestic-helper Minimum Allowable Wage to HK$5,220

Hong Kong has increased the Minimum Allowable Wage (MAW) for foreign domestic helpers from HK$5,100 to HK$5,220 a month. The Government announced the change on 2 October 2026. ↗

The new rate applies to FDH contracts signed on or after 3 October 2026. It does not automatically change the wage written in an earlier signed contract.

Check the contract-signing date

For a new contract signed on or after 3 October, the wage cannot be below HK$5,220 a month. The Labour Department confirms the same rate and contract-signing date. ↗

For a contract signed on or before 2 October 2026, the previous HK$5,100 rate may still be processed if the application reaches the Immigration Department by 30 October 2026. Check the official announcement before relying on this transitional arrangement.

Food allowance is unchanged

Employers must provide free food under the Standard Employment Contract. If an employer chooses to provide a food allowance instead, the minimum remains HK$1,236 a month. The October announcement did not change that amount.

What employers should do

• Check the contract-signing date before writing the wage in a new Standard Employment Contract.
• Do not reduce a wage below the applicable Minimum Allowable Wage through a separate agreement.
• Keep the Government announcement and signed contract with your employment records.
• Ask the Labour Department or Immigration Department if a contract or application falls within the transition arrangements.

The July union proposal is separate from this confirmed Government rate. Read what that proposal did and did not change.

Last verified

7 October 2026.