General
How do employers manage food and meals for their domestic helper in Hong Kong?
Quick Answer
The Standard Employment Contract (ID407) requires employers to provide free food or a food allowance of at least HK$1,236/month, but does not specify what food. Filipino and Indonesian helpers often have dietary preferences that differ from Hong Kong households. Clear communication about meals from day one prevents misunderstanding and leads to a smoother working arrangement.
Which government departments are involved in hiring a domestic helper in Hong Kong?
Quick Answer
Three main bodies are involved: the Immigration Department processes visa applications and enforces conditions of stay; the Labour Department oversees the employment contract, minimum wage, and dispute resolution; and the helper's Consulate-General (e.g., Philippines or Indonesia) must notarise the contract before the visa is approved.
How should I handle my helper's phone and social media usage during work hours?
Quick Answer
There is no law regulating phone usage — it is a house rule. Most employers allow phone use after dinner and on rest days, with emergencies excepted. Set clear expectations from day one, be reasonable about family contact, and never monitor the helper's personal phone.
Who is eligible to employ a foreign domestic helper in Hong Kong?
Quick Answer
Any bona fide Hong Kong resident can employ a domestic helper, provided they have a monthly household income of at least HK$15,000 per helper, can provide suitable live-in accommodation with reasonable privacy, and have no adverse record in employing domestic helpers. The employer must pay at least the current Minimum Allowable Wage of HK$5,100 per month.
How do I set house rules for my domestic helper from day one?
Quick Answer
Write your rules down before the helper arrives — covering working hours, phone usage, food, cleaning standards, and rest day arrangements. Go through them together on day one, explain the reasoning, and give the helper a copy. Clear expectations prevent most conflicts.
Should I stay home during my domestic helper's first weeks in Hong Kong?
Quick Answer
Yes, if at all possible — especially if children are involved. Use the first one to two weeks to train, observe, and build trust. Show your routines, demonstrate how you want things done, and assess how the helper handles your children before leaving them alone together.
How do I build trust with a new domestic helper in my home?
Quick Answer
Trust builds gradually through clear communication, consistent expectations, and mutual respect. Start with a petty cash system for transparency, be present during the first weeks, and give feedback daily. Avoid testing traps — just observe and communicate openly.