On 16 Sep 2026, the Chief Executive proposed fertility-promoting measures in his 2026 Policy Address, including increasing child allowance from $140,000 to $160,000 for second and subsequent children born on or after 16 September 2026 (effective from year of assessment 2026/27), and a stamp duty waiver capped at $20,000 for eligible families purchasing residential properties.
This article was generated using SAMS, an AI technology by Timothy Loh LLP.
SPOTLIGHT ON
FAMILY OFFICES
On 16 Sep 2026, the Chief Executive set out in his Policy Address a suite of policy initiatives aimed at promoting fertility within Hong Kong. The proposed measures encompass two principal components: an enhancement of child allowance provisions under the Inland Revenue Ordinance and a stamp duty concession applicable to residential property acquisitions by families with newborn children.
Legislative Framework
It is important to note that both measures are contingent upon legislative amendments. The specific details outlined in the Policy Address remain subject to revision throughout the course of the relevant legislative process, and no final determination should be made until enactment.
Enhancement of Child Allowance Provisions
The Chief Executive has proposed that, for a taxpayer's second and subsequent children born on or after 16 September 2026, the child allowance shall be increased from $140,000 to $160,000. The enhanced amount will remain claimable until the relevant child attains the age of twenty-five years, subject to established procedural requirements under the Inland Revenue Ordinance. Correspondingly, the additional child allowance applicable during the first two years following childbirth for such children shall likewise be increased from $140,000 to $160,000. The proposed arrangement is intended to take effect commencing with the year of assessment 2026/27.
Stamp Duty Concession on Residential Property Acquisition
A stamp duty concession will be available to eligible families that satisfy both of the following conditions: (a) their children are born in Hong Kong on or after 16 September 2026; and (b) at least one parent of such child is a permanent resident of Hong Kong. Eligible families who have acquired residential property within the period commencing one year prior to, and expiring two years following, the date of childbirth shall be entitled to a stamp duty waiver in an amount not exceeding $20,000. This concession will take effect upon enactment of the relevant amending ordinance.
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