Living in Hong Kong - Domestic Helpers

DOMESTIC HELPERS

* There are many various domestic helpers from the Philippines, Thailand, China, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and India.
* If good food is your fair, go with Sri Lankan or Thai helpers, while helpers from the Philippines are good with children and pets.
* To be a bargain guru a Chinese amah would be a good choice.

Part-time Helpers:

* Helpers employed part-time do not cook but will generally do cleaning and laundry.
* The minimum wage is HKD$50-/hr, most helpers will also ask for travel expenses.

Full-time Helpers:

* Full-time helpers work 6 days a week and duties include; cleaning, washing, ironing, child-minding and cooking.
* Most Hong Kong apartments have small living areas for live-in helpers, these areas must be furnished. Furnishings include; a bed, chest of drawers, table & chair/s.

Employment:

* When looking for a domestic helper, be sure to look at all options and interview a number of candidates.
* Bulletin boards in supermarkets and classified adverts in newspapers are also worth checking.
* Always check that helpers are in Hong Kong legally.
* Check release papers from previous employer.
* When employing Filipinas or Thai helpers you need an Employment Contract (4 copies) from the Immigration Department.
* When the Contracts have been completed, you need to take them to the appropriate Consulate with the require fees.
* The Immigration Department will notify the employer for an interview after approximately 4 weeks.
* Helpers need to have a complete medical examination before signing any contracts.
* Employers are responsible for all expenses; medical, visas and passports.
* Minimum salary for helpers is HKD$3,270/month, and an additional minimum HKD$400/month food allowance, unless the helper is provided the same food as the family.
* Employers are also responsible for medical care and insurance of their domestic helper.
* Employers are also liable for a tax of HKD$400/month to the government for each contract, payable as one lump sum up front on completion of the application or on a quarterly basis.

Enquiries – Labour Department
Tel: 2717 1771

Immigration Department
Wanchai Tower II, 7 Gloucester Rd, Wanchai
Monday to Friday 8.45am – 4.30pm;
Saturdays 9.00am – 1.00pm

Philippine Consulate
6/F, United Centre, 95 Queensway
Tel: 2823 8500

Thai Consulate
Domestic Helper Hotline
Tel: 2521 6481