Regulations on Travel Expenses, Meal, and Transportation Allowances for Foreign Domestic Helpers After Contract Completion or Termination

When a foreign domestic helper (FDH) completes their contract and returns to their home country, the employer should not only send them off with good wishes but also arrange their return, handle long service payments, and pay any outstanding holiday wages. Even if the contract is terminated due to performance issues or by mutual agreement for other reasons, the employer must address the same matters. Previously, we had an article discussed how to calculate termination notice pay and long service payments for FDHs; this time, we will share regulations on travel expenses, meal, and transportation allowances.

Question 1: Upon contract completion or termination, does the employer need to pay for the FDH’s return travel expenses to their home country?

Answer: According to the "Standard Employment Contract," the employer is responsible for the costs associated with the FDH’s return to their home country. On various online forums, it is noted that many FDHs request cash equivalent to the cost of the plane ticket instead of an actual ticket. The Labour Department advises providing a ticket rather than cash, preferably one that includes basic baggage allowance to avoid the FDH using the cash to travel elsewhere first instead of directly returning to their home country. Before purchasing the ticket, employers should communicate with the FDH to confirm departure dates and destinations to facilitate the completion of contract termination procedures. Alternatively, employers might consider giving the FDH a flexible ticket that allows for date changes to avoid additional costs if the FDH misses the original departure date.

Question 2: How much meal and transportation allowance should be given to the FDH?

Answer: The employment contract typically stipulates that FDHs should receive a daily meal and transportation allowance totaling HK$100 while waiting to return to their home country after contract completion. If the provided ticket does not allow the FDH to return directly to their home country, the allowance may need to be increased based on the number of travel days. For FDHs whose homes are in remote areas, this allowance might need to be adjusted accordingly. Generally, it takes 2-3 days for Filipino and Indonesian FDHs to travel home. Employers should communicate with the FDH to determine the most direct route home and remind them to use the most direct method.

If the FDH is going on home leave for contract renewal, the employer should arrange these matters and ensure the FDH’s insurance is renewed. Without renewed insurance, the FDH would be working illegally upon return, and the employer would be liable for any medical expenses due to the FDH’s illness or accidents.

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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