Hong Kong's Minimum Allowable Wage for foreign domestic helpers rises by 2.35 per cent to HK$5,220 per month for contracts signed from 3 October 2026.
At a glance
- The monthly Minimum Allowable Wage rises from HK$5,100 to HK$5,220.
- The food allowance remains at no less than HK$1,236 per month where food is not provided.
- The new wage applies to contracts signed on or after 3 October, with a transition rule for earlier contracts.
The new contract rate
The 2.35 per cent increase applies to foreign domestic helper contracts signed on or after 3 October 2026. The Minimum Allowable Wage is a contract floor for this employment route and should not be confused with Hong Kong's general Statutory Minimum Wage regime. Employers and helpers should use the current standard contract and official guidance.
Food allowance remains unchanged
Employers must provide food free of charge or pay a food allowance of at least HK$1,236 per month. The official release keeps that minimum unchanged. The wage and food terms are separate obligations, so a higher cash wage should not be presented as replacing the required food arrangement unless the contract lawfully specifies the allowance.
The transition deadline
Contracts signed on or before 2 October may use the previous monthly wage of HK$5,100 if the properly completed application reaches the Immigration Department by 30 October 2026. Signing date and receipt date both matter. Parties should keep dated copies and delivery evidence rather than relying on an informal promise that a late application will be accepted.
What employers should check
Employers should review the full employment cost, insurance, accommodation, rest days, statutory holidays and return travel obligations. Agencies cannot rewrite government requirements. Fees and document handling should be transparent, and no party should retain a worker's passport except for a legitimate short process with consent and prompt return.
What helpers should keep
Helpers should retain copies of the signed contract, receipts, wage records and official correspondence. A contract variation should be documented rather than agreed only through chat. Anyone facing withheld wages or coercion should use official labour and support channels. This report summarises the policy date and does not replace individual legal advice.
How to read this development
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A practical next step
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Our source standard
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About the cover
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Official source
Read the Minimum Allowable Wage for foreign domestic helpers increased. The linked authority remains the source of record for operational changes, deadlines and eligibility.