Hong Kong, September 29, 2025 — The Hong Kong government has raised the minimum allowable wage (MAW) for foreign domestic helpers (FDHs) by 2.2%, increasing it from HK$4,990 to HK$5,100 per month. The adjustment will take effect for all employment contracts signed on or after September 30, 2025.
Implementation and Transition Period
According to the government’s announcement, contracts signed at the old rate of HK$4,990 will still be accepted by the Immigration Department, provided the applications are submitted no later than October 27, 2025.
Meanwhile, the monthly food allowance for helpers who do not receive free food from employers will remain unchanged at HK$1,236.
Government’s Considerations
The wage increase follows the government’s annual review, which weighed Hong Kong’s overall economic conditions, labor market trends, employers’ financial capacity, and the livelihood needs of FDHs. Officials described the 2.2% adjustment as a “balanced approach” to ensure fairness for workers while considering the affordability for local families.
Role of Foreign Domestic Helpers
Hong Kong is home to more than 320,000 foreign domestic helpers, primarily from the Philippines and Indonesia. They form a crucial part of the city’s workforce, supporting households with childcare, elderly care, and household duties.
While the 2.2% increase is seen as a modest improvement, labor rights advocates say it highlights the ongoing debate over how best to balance workers’ welfare and employers’ economic realities.
Source SCMP
