Hong Kong to Pilot Foreign Domestic Care Worker Scheme in 2026 Policy Address

In the 2026 Policy Address, Chief Executive John Lee announced a new pilot scheme to bring in foreign domestic care workers, aimed at addressing Hong Kong's ageing population.

Hong Kong's ageing population is driving demand for professional home care

What Is the New Foreign Domestic Care Worker Scheme?

The scheme will be modelled on the existing Foreign Domestic Helper (FDH) framework but is expected to launch without a quota cap, meaning there will be no limit on the number of workers admitted under the programme.

Training and Experience Requirements for Applicants

Applicants will need a higher level of elderly care training and several years of relevant caregiving experience, completed in their home country before arrival. Unlike the FDH scheme, which draws mainly from the Philippines and Indonesia, this new programme is not expected to be limited to traditional source countries.

Will Wages Be Higher Than for General Domestic Helpers?

Wages are expected to potentially exceed those typically offered to general domestic helpers, reflecting the higher skill and experience requirements.

Authorities are also considering requiring applicants to submit their applications before entering Hong Kong, with a "dual-track" option allowing candidates to apply for different roles simultaneously. Details on the specific training curriculum and which bodies will handle certificate recognition are still under discussion with the Immigration Department and relevant consulates.

SEEDU will continue to match families with trusted, qualified care professionals

What This Means for Hong Kong Families

This pilot scheme signals a potential shift in how Hong Kong sources care and domestic support labour. SEEDU will continue to monitor developments as more details are released.

Source citation

Source: HK01, "施政報告｜試行輸入外籍家居照顧員 據悉無配額 工資或高於外傭" (16 September 2026). Original article: https://www.hk01.com/article/60390690