Foreign Domestic Helper Q&A Vol. 6
First Time Hiring/How to Apply/Compare with Local Helper
When hiring a Foreign Domestic Helper (FDH) in Hong Kong, employers must meet certain government requirements. What are these requirements? If employers wish to apply for an FDH themselves, how can they do it? Before making a decision, employers should consider if hiring a local helper might better suit their needs. This article provides simple answers to these three questions.
Q: What requirements must employers meet to hire an FDH?
A: The Hong Kong government requires employers to meet the following conditions to hire an FDH:
Income Requirement: The total monthly income of the employer's household should be over HK$15,000. If the income is below this, employers can provide proof of assets to show they can cover the FDH’s salary. This amount is per FDH.
Work and Residence Location: The FDH must work and live at the employer’s residence and only at one address.
Suitable Living Conditions: Employers must provide adequate and private accommodation for the FDH.
No Previous Violations: Both the employer and FDH should not have any past records of relevant violations.
Hong Kong Residency: The employer must be a resident of Hong Kong.
Q: What are the steps for an employer to apply for an FDH on their own?
A: Here’s a simplified process for applying:
i) Application Forms: Have the FDH fill out the " Visa/Extension of Stay Application Form for Domestic Helper from Abroad" (ID 988A) and prepare four copies of the standard employment contract (ID 407).
ii) Employer’s Application Form: The employer should complete the " Application for Employment of Domestic Helper from Abroad " form (ID 988B).
iii) Supporting Documents: Attach required documents, including the employer’s Hong Kong ID, proof of income, address proof, and a reference letter from the FDH showing relevant work experience.
iv) Submit Documents: Submit these documents by mail or in person at the Immigration Department.
Related Article: Guide to Hiring Foreign Domestic Helpers
Q: What are the main differences between hiring an FDH and a local helper?
A: Here are key points to consider:
i) Accommodation: FDHs must live at the employer’s home, so the employer should ensure they have enough space. Local helpers usually go home after work.
ii) Wages: The minimum wage for FDHs is HK$4,990 monthly, while local helpers typically charge HK$80 to HK$100 per hour.
iii) Food: Employers usually provide free meals for FDHs or pay a monthly food allowance of HK$1,236. Local helpers don’t have this requirement.
iv) Medical Costs: Employers must cover all medical expenses for FDHs, regardless of whether it’s work-related. For local helpers, only work-related injuries require coverage.
v) Travel Costs to Home Country: Employers need to pay for the FDH's travel back to their home country at the end of the contract or if the contract ends early. This doesn’t apply to local helpers.
Related Articles: Things to consider when hiring a Foreign Domestic Helper or a Local Helper
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Foreign Domestic Helper Q&A Vol. 3
Foreign Domestic Helper Q&A Vol. 2
Foreign Domestic Helper Q&A Vol. 1
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The information provided in this article is for general reference only and should not be considered as any form of advice. Our company assumes no responsibility for its use
