If you’re planning to hire a foreign domestic helper (FDH) — such as from the Philippines — for your home in Hong Kong, knowing the latest employment rules and visa procedures is essential. Below is a clear, up-to-date guide based on official regulations from the Hong Kong government.
Who can employ a foreign domestic helper
- Under the rules of the Hong Kong government, to employ an FDH your household must have a monthly income of at least HK$15,000 (or assets of comparable amount) to support the helper. Gov.hk+1
- When hiring from abroad, you must use the official Standard Employment Contract (SEC, form ID 407). This is the only contract acceptable under Hong Kong law for overseas-recruited domestic helpers. Immigration Department+1
- The helper must hold a valid travel document (passport or equivalent) with adequate validity and satisfy standard immigration requirements before entry. Gov.hk+2Immigration Department+2
Essential Documents & Visa Application Process
To bring a helper from abroad, the following must be prepared and submitted to the Immigration Department. Official required documents include: Immigration Department+2Immigration Department+2
- Visa/Extension of Stay Application (form ID 988A) — to be completed by the helper. Immigration Department+1
- Application for Employment of Domestic Helper from Abroad (form ID 988B) — to be completed by the employer. Immigration Department+1
- Original copy of the Standard Employment Contract (ID 407) signed by both parties. Immigration Department+1
- Copy of helper’s travel document and any previous Hong Kong visa label or landing slip (if applicable). Immigration Department+2Gov.hk+2
- Copy of employer’s Hong Kong identity (HKID / passport) and proof of residential address. Immigration Department+1
- Evidence of employer’s ability to support the helper (income or assets). Immigration Department+2Foreign Domestic Helpers+2
Only after the visa is approved can the helper legally come to Hong Kong — she must not travel or start working before that. Gov.hk+1
Contract Terms, Wages and Live-in Requirement
- The SEC (ID 407) is a two-year contract, the standard duration under Hong Kong law. Immigration Department+1
- A helper must live in the employer’s residence. The “live-in” requirement is a fundamental condition of the FDH visa scheme. Immigration Department+2Foreign Domestic Helpers+2
- The employer must pay at least the Minimum Allowable Wage (MAW) in effect when the contract is signed. As of 30 September 2025, the MAW is HK$5,100 per month. Foreign Domestic Helpers+2Hong Kong Government News+2
- Under the contract terms, wages must be paid in cash, or with the helper’s consent, by cheque or bank deposit. Immigration Department
Failing to pay below MAW, or paying via improper / informal arrangements, is a legal offence that may lead to prosecution. Foreign Domestic Helpers+1
Rights and Obligations — For Employers and Helpers
- Employment must follow the terms of the Standard Employment Contract (ID 407). Alternative contracts are not acceptable for overseas-recruited helpers. Immigration Department+1
- If a helper’s contract is terminated early by either party, written notice should be given. The visa / stay allowance is only valid for the contract period or up to two weeks after termination — whichever is earlier. Immigration Department
- Helpers are legally not allowed to take up other employment during their contract period. Their duties must be as described in the contract. Wikipedia+1
Important Recent Update (2025) — New Wage Level
On 29 September 2025, the Hong Kong government announced that the MAW for FDHs will be increased by 2.2%, from HK$4,990 to HK$5,100 per month, effective for contracts signed on or after 30 September 2025. Hong Kong Government Information Centre+2Hong Kong Government News+2
For employers hiring helpers under new contracts, this new wage level is mandatory. Underpayment or agreeing to a lower wage rate is illegal. Foreign Domestic Helpers+1
Why Compliance Matters & Common Pitfalls
- Using anything other than the standard contract (ID 407) for an overseas-recruited helper will likely result in rejection of visa application by the Immigration Department. Immigration Department+2Immigration Department+2
- Making informal arrangements (e.g. “live-out”, lower wages, no proper documentation) can trigger visa issues, breach of labour law, or even criminal prosecution. Foreign Domestic Helpers+2Foreign Domestic Helpers+2
- All required documents must be submitted accurately: incomplete or incorrect documentation (passport copy, address proof, employer identity, contract copy, etc.) may delay or invalidate the application. Immigration Department+2Immigration Department+2
Final Thoughts — What Employers Should Do
Hiring a foreign domestic helper through proper legal channels is both a responsibility and a commitment. By following the official rules — using the correct contract, paying at least the MAW, fulfilling live-in requirements, and submitting complete visa applications — you can ensure a smooth, lawful process for both you and your helper.
If you are ready to proceed, gather all required documents carefully, and submit to the Immigration Department only when the contract is properly signed. This will greatly reduce the risk of delay or rejection.
Contact Chris Benne
If you’d like professional support to streamline the process, ensure compliance, and avoid delays, we’re here to help. Contact us today for hassle-free visa and contract processing for your Filipino helper.