Taking Your Foreign Domestic Helper on Vacation: Visa and Important Considerations
As the holiday season approaches, many people are planning trips abroad. Some employers wonder about the visa requirements for bringing their foreign domestic helpers on vacation. This guide covers the visa requirements for popular destinations and important things to note when traveling with your helper.
Visa Requirements for Domestic Helpers
The following information is for tourist entry purposes only and does not include work visas. Bringing your helper on vacation is not the same as hiring them to work abroad. Visa applications take time and may involve costs. Employers should prepare in advance and consult the respective consulates for details.
For Filipino Helpers (Philippine Passport Holders):
Mainland China: Visa required (Source)
Macau: Visa-free for 30 days with a Hong Kong ID card
Japan: Visa required (Source)
Taiwan: Visa-free for 14 days
South Korea: Visa required (Source)
Thailand: Visa-free for 30 days
United Kingdom: Visa-free for 30 days
EU Countries (Schengen Zone): Visa required (Source)
For Indonesian Helpers (Indonesian Passport Holders):
Mainland China: Visa required (Source)
Macau: Visa-free for 30 days with a Hong Kong ID card
Japan: Visa required (Source)
Taiwan: Visa required (Source)
South Korea: Visa required (Source)
Thailand: Visa-free for 30 days
United Kingdom: Visa required (Source)
EU Countries (Schengen Zone): Visa required (Source)
Important Considerations When Traveling with a Foreign Domestic Helper
1. Work Location Rights
According to the Standard Employment Contract, a foreign domestic helper is only required to work at the specified address. They have the right to refuse any work outside of this scope. If your primary intention is to have the helper work during the trip, they can legally decline. Clear communication is essential to avoid misunderstandings.
2. Medical Insurance
A 2003 amendment to the Standard Employment Contract states that employers are not responsible for medical expenses when helpers travel abroad for personal or voluntary reasons, including vacations. However, employers remain responsible for the helper’s medical expenses in Hong Kong.
To protect both parties, ensure the helper has domestic helper insurance and consider purchasing travel insurance for them. This ensures access to medical care abroad, reducing the likelihood of additional costs upon returning to Hong Kong.
Related Reading: Taking the foreign domestic helper on a trip - Does the foreign domestic helper insurance cover it?
Related product:
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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
