HK raises minimum wage for foreign domestic helpers by 2.2pc to $5,100 starting Sep 30

The Hong Kong government announced on Monday that there will be a 2.2 percent increase in the Minimum Allowable Wage (MAW) for foreign domestic helpers, raising it from HK$4,990 to HK$5,100 per month, effective for all contracts signed from Tuesday, while the food allowance remains unchanged.

Starting tomorrow (Sep 30), foreign domestic helpers in Hong Kong will see their minimum wage rise to HK$5,100 per month, up from the current HK$4,990, following a 2.2 percent adjustment announced by the government. 

The food allowance, however, will stay at a minimum of HK$1,236 per month. 

This new wage applies to all contracts signed on or after the effective date. 

The Labour Department explained that the government regularly reviews the minimum wage to ensure it aligns with Hong Kong’s economic and labor market conditions. 

The decision was informed by a comprehensive assessment of factors, including the city’s economic performance over the past year, short-term economic prospects, the affordability for employers, and the basic living needs of domestic helpers, alongside input from various stakeholders.

To accommodate employers, contracts signed at the current HK$4,990 minimum wage on or before today can still be submitted to the Immigration Department for processing until October 27. 

This grace period provides employers sufficient time to finalize applications under the existing wage structure, ensuring a smooth transition to the new rate.