How long is a foreign domestic helper contract in Hong Kong?

Q: How long is a foreign domestic helper contract in Hong Kong?

Every domestic helper contract in Hong Kong is fixed at exactly two years. The Standard Employment Contract (Form ID407) is the only legally enforceable contract for helpers, and its duration cannot be shortened or extended by private agreement. After two years, the contract can be renewed for another two-year term.

Overview

Domestic helper contracts aren't open-ended. Unlike most jobs in Hong Kong, the government mandates a fixed two-year term. This gives both sides a clear timeline and ties the helper's visa to a known renewal schedule.

The Standard Employment Contract (ID407)

Fixed term: 2 years from the commencement date
Mandatory form: All helpers must be employed under Form ID407 — custom or informal contracts are not valid
Contents: Includes salary, duties, live-in requirement, rest days, notice period, and all statutory entitlements

Can the Term Be Shortened or Lengthened?

No — and a side letter saying otherwise won't help either. Private agreements to alter the two-year term aren't recognised. Your options are:

Complete the two-year term and then decide whether to renew
Terminate early by either party giving one month's notice (or paying one month's wages in lieu)

What Happens at the End of Two Years?

Renew — Sign a new Standard Employment Contract for another two years. The helper must take at least 7 days' home leave before the new contract begins (or apply to defer).
Not renew — Employer and helper go their separate ways. If the helper isn't starting a new engagement, they must leave Hong Kong within two weeks.

Notice Period

Either party can end the contract early by:

Giving one month's written notice, OR
Paying one month's wages in lieu of notice

There's no formal probation period — the same one-month notice applies from day one.

Important Notes

The two-year term is counted from the contract start date, not the calendar year
Using the official ID407 form is mandatory; amendments to standard clauses are not permitted
For overseas hires, the contract must be notarized by the helper's Consulate-General before departure

Not Renewing? Here's What to Do Next

If you've decided not to renew, there are a couple of practical steps to take before the contract ends.

Calculate final payments first. Use our Helper Settlement Calculator to work out outstanding wages, unused annual leave pay, and any long service or severance entitlements — so there are no surprises on the last day.

Looking for a new helper? If you'd like to start a fresh placement, our team at GMA is happy to help. Get in touch with us and we'll walk you through the process at no obligation.