Wages & Benefits
What is the minimum wage for a domestic helper in Hong Kong?
Quick Answer
The Minimum Allowable Wage (MAW) for domestic helpers in Hong Kong is HK$5,220 per month, applying to Standard Employment Contracts signed on or after 3 October 2026. Contracts signed on or before 2 October 2026 at HK$5,100 will still be processed by the Immigration Department if the application is received by 30 October 2026. Employers who do not provide free food must also pay a food allowance of at least HK$1,236 per month. Paying below the MAW is a criminal offence.
Do I have to pay my domestic helper a food or meal allowance in Hong Kong?
Quick Answer
Yes — the Standard Employment Contract requires you to either provide free food in kind every day, or pay a food allowance of HK$1,236 per month (rate confirmed unchanged in the 2 October 2026 review). You must choose one option and state it in the contract; doing neither is not permitted. If paying the allowance, your total minimum monthly cash obligation is HK$6,456 (HK$5,220 MAW + HK$1,236 food allowance).
Do I still have to provide meals if I pay my helper the food allowance?
Quick Answer
No. Under the Standard Employment Contract you either provide free food or pay the monthly food allowance, currently HK$1,236; paying the allowance discharges the meal obligation. You choose one arrangement and state it in the contract. Travel abroad sits outside the Hong Kong contract, so meals on a trip are for you and her to agree before you go.