FADWU proposes higher Minimum Allowable Wage and food allowance for foreign domestic helpers

FADWU proposal. On 5 July 2026, the Hong Kong Federation of Asian Domestic Workers Unions (FADWU) proposed raising the Minimum Allowable Wage from HK$5,100 to HK$6,670 and the food allowance from HK$1,236 to HK$2,770 during a Labour Department consultation. ↗ This was a union proposal, not a Government-announced update to the Minimum Allowable Wage.

What is currently confirmed

The Government announced a new rate after this proposal. From 3 October 2026, the Minimum Allowable Wage is HK$5,220 a month for FDH contracts signed on or after that date. ↗ The food allowance remains at not less than HK$1,236 a month when free food is not provided. ↗

Who is affected

The proposal may be relevant to employers and foreign domestic helpers following the consultation. It does not change a signed contract or create a new rate on its own.

Practical next steps

Do not change a signed contract based on a proposal alone. For a new contract, check the Labour Department's current guidance immediately before signing. Read the October 2026 confirmed wage update for the new rate and transition date.

Last verified

7 October 2026. This item is retained as a dated proposal, not an evergreen wage guide.