Regulations for Foreign Domestic Helpers (FDHs) in Hong Kong
Laws and Contracts
FDHs are protected under the Employment Ordinance.
Must sign and comply with the Standard Employment Contract (2-year term, no probation period).
Employer Requirements
Employer must be a Hong Kong resident with a valid ID card.
Household monthly income must exceed HK$15,000, or show assets of at least HK$180,000.
If income drops below HK$15,000, Immigration Department must be notified; contract may be terminated.
FDH Eligibility
Not applicable to residents of Mainland China, Macau, Taiwan, and nationals of Afghanistan, Cuba, Laos, North Korea, Nepal, and Vietnam.
No minimum age or gender restrictions set by Hong Kong, but origin countries may impose requirements (e.g., Filipinos must be at least 23 years old).
Salary and Food Allowance
FDHs have a separate minimum wage: HK$5,100 per month.
Employers must provide free food or a HK$1,236 monthly food allowance.
Recommended to pay via bank transfer for record-keeping.
Working Hours and Holidays
No official standard working hours or overtime pay.
Entitled to 14 statutory holidays per year and at least 1 rest day per week.
Employers must provide free accommodation.
Accommodation Rules
FDHs must live with their employer.
Violation can result in fines up to HK$150,000 and imprisonment up to 14 years.
Medical Care and Insurance
Employers must cover medical expenses during employment (consultation, hospitalization, emergency dental).
Mandatory labor insurance covers only work-related injuries.
Recommended to purchase comprehensive insurance for broader coverage (illness, liability, theft, major diseases).
Premiums vary by origin, duration, and coverage: HK$550–1,300+ for 2 years.
Job Restrictions
FDHs can only work at the contract-specified address.
Cannot take part-time jobs or work elsewhere (e.g., employer’s office or relatives’ homes).
Special safety rules apply for cleaning external windows.
FDHs cannot drive unless granted special permission by Immigration Department and holding a valid HK driving license.