Hong KongWe do our best to keep this updated as the rules change. Please cross-check with the relevant authority for the very latest details.
From 3 October 2026, the Minimum Allowable Wage (MAW) for foreign domestic helpers in Hong Kong is HKD 5,220 per month — up 2.35% from HKD 5,100 (Government announcement, 2 October 2026). Where the employer does not provide food in kind, the monthly food allowance is at least HKD 1,236 (unchanged).
How the MAW applies: • It attaches to the contract signing date — contracts signed on or after 3 October 2026 must pay at least HKD 5,220; contracts signed earlier continue at the rate in force when they were signed, for their full term • Transition: a contract signed on or before 2 October 2026 at HKD 5,100 is still accepted if the visa application reaches the Immigration Department by 30 October 2026 • It is an absolute floor — paying below the MAW is a criminal offence that can lead to prosecution, and it jeopardises the employer's future FDH applications • Declaring one wage to Immigration while paying another ("wage discounting") is equally an offence for both parties
The Government reviews the MAW every year, usually announcing changes around September/October. Always check the latest figure before signing a new contract or a renewal — or simply confirm with us; HelperDoc contracts are always prepared at or above the current MAW.
Last updated on 8 Oct 2026.