Hong Kong Raises Statutory Minimum Wage

Key Point  

• Hong Kong has increased the Statutory Minimum Wage (SMW) to HK$43.1 per hour effective May 1, 2026.  

Statutory Minimum Wage in Hong Kong 

The Hong Kong Labour Department has confirmed that the Statutory Minimum Wage (SMW) has increased from HK$42.1 to HK$43.1 per hour, effective May 1, 2026.  

Under the Minimum Wage Ordinance, the updated rate applies to most employees regardless of employment type, including full‑time, part‑time, hourly‑rated and casual workers. 

Exemptions to the Minimum Statutory Wage Requirements  

Additional details from the government announcement include: 

• The SMW does not apply to: 
• Live‑in domestic workers 
• Student interns 
• Work‑experience students 
• Individuals not covered by the Employment Ordinance 

Additional Requirements  

The monthly monetary cap for employers to record total hours worked has increased from HK$17,200 to HK$17,600. Employers must track hours worked for any employee earning below this threshold. 

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