Understanding Documentation Requirements for Your Domestic Helper

Bringing a foreign domestic helper (FDH) to Hong Kong involves a number of legal and administrative requirements. Understanding exactly which documents are required, by whom, and when is key — for employers and for helpers — to ensure a smooth visa & employment process. Here’s a clear, up-to-date guide based on the regulations of the Immigration Department (IMMD) and Labour Department of Hong Kong. Immigration Department+2fdh.labour.gov.hk+2

📄 Core Documents Required for Overseas-Recruited Domestic Helpers

When you (as employer) are hiring a helper from abroad (e.g. from the Philippines), the following core documentation must be prepared and submitted to the Immigration Department. Immigration Department+2Immigration Department+2

Mandatory Forms & Official Contract:

Visa/Extension of Stay Application Form for Domestic Helper from Abroad (Form ID 988A) — to be completed and signed by the helper. Immigration Department+1
Application for Employment of Domestic Helper from Abroad (Form ID 988B) — to be completed and signed by the employer. Immigration Department+1
Original (signed) copy of the standard Employment Contract (Form ID 407) — this is the only official contract recognized by the Hong Kong government for overseas‑recruited domestic helpers. Immigration Department+1

Identity and Travel / Immigration Documents for the Helper:

Copy (or original, if required) of the helper’s travel document (passport) showing personal particulars, validity, latest visa label or landing endorsement/landing slip (or “e‑Visa” if applicable). Gov.hk+1
Copy of helper’s Hong Kong Identity Card (HKID), if she already has one (e.g. when changing employer or extending stay). Immigration Department

Documents from Employer:

Copy of employer’s Hong Kong Identity Card (HKID), or if not a permanent resident: passport/travel document including the latest Hong Kong visa or stamp. Immigration Department+1
Proof of employer’s financial standing or household income/assets (as required under FDH eligibility guidelines) — this helps demonstrate capability to employ a helper. Immigration Department+2overseas.com.hk+2
Proof of employer’s residential address — this must match the address in the employment contract. Typically utility bills or equivalent showing address are acceptable. Immigration Department+1

Other Supporting Documents (as applicable):

If replacing a helper, a release letter from the previous employer showing termination/expiry of previous contract. Immigration Department
If the helper will perform special duties (e.g. driving), supplementary documents may be required (e.g. driving license of helper, vehicle registration, employer’s justification). Gov.hk+1

⚠️ Legal Contract Requirements & Conditions — What the Documents Represent

Using the official standard contract and documentation ensures compliance with Hong Kong labour and immigration laws. Key legal/contractual conditions associated with these documents:

The standard contract (Form ID 407) is the only legally valid contract for overseas‑recruited FDHs. No alternative contracts are acceptable. Immigration Department+2Labour Department+2
The live‑in requirement: under the contract and labour scheme, the helper must reside at the employer’s address specified in the contract. Accommodation must meet acceptable standards. fdh.labour.gov.hk+1
The helper is only permitted to carry out domestic duties as defined in the contract; employment or work for other households or external jobs is prohibited. Labour Department+1

✅ Why Accuracy and Completeness Matter — Common Risks of Incomplete/Incorrect Documentation

Submitting incomplete, outdated, or invalid documents can lead to visa rejection, delays in processing, or even legal complications. Some of the risks:

If the travel document (passport) is near expiry or lacks proper visa/landing endorsement, the helper may not be granted a visa. Gov.hk+1
Using an informal contract, or any contract other than ID 407, means the arrangement is not legally valid — visa application will be rejected. Immigration Department+1
If employer’s address or financial proof does not match what’s declared in the contract/forms, or if there is inadequate proof, the application may be delayed or refused. Immigration Department+1

📝 Checklist — Documents to Prepare Before Submitting Application

Here’s a quick pre-submission checklist for employers hiring a helper from abroad:

✅ Completed and signed ID 988A (helper) and ID 988B (employer) forms
✅ Original signed Employment Contract (ID 407)
✅ Helper’s valid travel document (passport copy), showing valid visa / landing endorsement / “e‑Visa” / latest entry record
✅ Copy of helper’s HKID (if any)
✅ Copy of employer’s HKID (or passport + valid HK visa/stamp)
✅ Proof of employer’s financial standing (income, assets, salary slips, bank statements, etc.)
✅ Proof of employer’s residential address (recent utility bills, rental agreement, etc.)
✅ If relevant: release letter from former employer (for contract change / replacement), or extra documents for special duties (e.g. driving license, vehicle reg.)

📌 Extra Notes — What Employers & Helpers Should Know

Having correct documentation is a legal requirement — the visa may only be issued once all required documents are submitted and approved by the IMMD. Gov.hk+1
The standard contract not only serves as administrative paperwork — it defines the legal framework for wages, accommodation, duties, and the helper’s rights. Immigration Department+2fdh.labour.gov.hk+2
For helpers from the Philippines (or other overseas origins), ensure passport validity and travel documentation are valid well before travel. Without valid travel documents, visa application may be invalid.

🔎 Conclusion — Documentation is the Foundation of a Smooth, Legal Hiring Process

Proper documentation is not just bureaucratic paperwork — it is the foundation of legal compliance, clarity, and mutual protection for employers and helpers. Taking time to prepare and double‑check all required documents (forms, contract, identity, financial & address proof) significantly reduces the risk of delays, rejection, or legal issues.

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