Foreign Domestic Helper Minimum Wage 2026

Salary Rises for the Fifth Year in a Row

Every year, the Hong Kong Government usually announces the new minimum wage for foreign domestic helpers in late September. However, this year’s announcement was delayed until 2 October, leaving many employers waiting anxiously. As expected, the minimum wage has increased again, marking the fifth consecutive year of salary rises. How much is the increase? What does it mean for employers? And how can domestic helper insurance help? Let’s take a closer look.

Foreign Domestic Helper Minimum Wage 2026: 2.35% Increase from 3 October

On 2 October, the Hong Kong Government announced a 2.35% increase in the Minimum Allowable Wage for foreign domestic helpers (FDHs). The monthly wage will rise from HK$5,100 to HK$5,220. The new rate applies to all FDH employment contracts signed on or after 3 October.

The minimum monthly food allowance remains unchanged at HK$1,236.

Over the past three years, the minimum wage for FDHs has increased from HK$4,870 in 2024 to HK$5,220 in 2026, representing a total increase of more than 7%. For employers, monthly salaries and other related expenses remain a significant long-term financial commitment.

Existing Contracts Remain Valid: Submit Applications by 30 October

Many employers may be wondering: “I have already signed the employment contract. Do I need to sign a new one?”

There is no need to worry. If you signed an FDH employment contract on or before 2 October based on the previous minimum wage of HK$5,100 per month, the contract can still be submitted to the Immigration Department for processing on or before Friday, 30 October.

This arrangement gives employers more time to complete the application process without rushing. However, it is advisable to submit the application as early as possible to avoid last-minute mistakes or delays.

Different Reactions to the Wage Increase: Unions Call for 30%, Employers Say It Is Too Much

The latest wage increase has received mixed reactions from FDH employers and labour unions.

Labour unions' views

Some FDH labour unions have called for a 30% wage increase, which would bring the monthly minimum wage to HK$6,670. They argue that current wages have not kept pace with inflation over the past 30 years, while the cost of living for FDHs continues to rise.

Employers' views

Many employers have reacted negatively to the increase. Some compared the FDH wage adjustment with the salary increases for civil servants this year, arguing that the increase for FDHs was higher and questioning whether this was fair.

Others believe that the quality of FDHs varies, and frequent job hopping by some helpers can cause financial losses for employers. Some have even suggested reducing FDH wages or reforming the current system by looking at Singapore's foreign domestic helper system as a reference.

Higher FDH Salaries Mean Employers Need Better Protection

As wages and other costs continue to rise each year, employers face greater financial responsibilities and potential risks. Under Hong Kong law, employers must take out employees' compensation insurance for their FDHs. If a helper suffers a work-related injury or occupational disease, the insurance can cover eligible compensation and medical expenses, helping employers avoid having to bear substantial costs themselves. Choosing domestic helper insurance with suitable coverage at a reasonable price can help employers manage financial risks and control overall expenses, even as FDH salaries continue to increase.

Conclusion

The 2026 minimum wage increase for foreign domestic helpers to HK$5,220 per month is now confirmed, adding to the financial burden on many households that carefully manage their budgets. Regardless of your views on the latest increase, it is important to complete contract renewal procedures legally and correctly, while making sure you meet the transitional deadline of 30 October.

For employers, the practical approach is to plan household expenses carefully and choose reliable domestic helper insurance. This helps provide an additional layer of protection for both the family and the foreign domestic helper.

Source: Increase in Minimum Allowable Wage and no change in food allowance for foreign domestic helpers

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