What are the allowances employers can offer employees in Hong Kong?

In Hong Kong, employers may provide various allowances as part of an employee's benefits package. These allowances are typically not mandatory by law but can be offered to cover specific work-related or personal expenses. 


1. Education Allowance

  • Purpose: Helps employees cover educational expenses such as tuition fees for themselves or their dependents.

2. Food, Fuel, Water, Light, or Medical Care Allowance

  • Purpose: Covers essential work-related expenses like food, fuel for travel, water, light, or medical care.

3. Housing Benefits

  • Purpose: Assists employees with housing costs, such as rent or mortgage payments, especially in high-cost areas like Hong Kong.

4. Travelling Allowance

  • Purpose: Covers work-related travel expenses, including transportation costs and lodging during business trips.

5. Contribution to Any Retirement Scheme

  • Purpose: Employers are required to contribute to the Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF) for employees, but additional voluntary contributions may also be made.

6. Any Benefits Convertible into Money

  • Purpose: Refers to any benefits that can be converted into a cash equivalent or monetary value, such as gift cards or allowances that can be redeemed for cash.


These allowances can vary based on the employer's policies and the employee's role, but they are commonly provided to help with specific personal or work-related expenses.

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