Does a domestic helper have to go home when renewing their contract in Hong Kong?

Q: Does a domestic helper have to go home when renewing their contract in Hong Kong?

Yes, generally. Before a new contract begins, a helper must return home for at least 7 days — and the employer pays the return airfare. If both parties agree and the Immigration Department approves, home leave can be deferred by up to one year, letting the helper stay in Hong Kong and take leave later.

Overview

Home leave at renewal gives helpers time to reconnect with family and recharge before starting a fresh contract. It's built into Clause 13 of the Standard Employment Contract — not optional.

The Minimum Requirement

At every contract renewal, the helper must:

Take a vacation of at least 7 days in their place of origin
Return before the new contract commences

The employer covers the return airfare (both ways) for the trip.

Is Home Leave Paid or Unpaid?

Home leave can be either paid or unpaid — this is agreed between employer and helper and specified in the contract. Many employers pay for the 7-day period as a goodwill gesture, especially for helpers who've been with the family a long time.

Can Home Leave Be Deferred?

Yes, under specific conditions:

Both parties must agree — the helper must consent to deferral
Immigration Department must approve — an application for extension of stay is required
Maximum deferral: Up to 1 year from the normal home leave date
During the deferral period, the helper continues working in Hong Kong under an extended visa

If deferral is approved, the helper must take home leave before the deferred deadline — it can't be skipped entirely.

Why Might Deferral Be Requested?

A new baby has just arrived and the family needs continuity
The helper is caring for an elderly family member at a critical time
The employer's schedule doesn't allow for a smooth handover period

Important Notes

Home leave is not the same as annual leave — they are separate entitlements
Skipping home leave entirely (without Immigration Department approval) is not permitted
Book the actual return ticket for your helper — handing over cash and hoping for the best is risky and not recommended

Ready to Renew?

Two years go fast. When renewal is coming up, GMA takes care of the whole thing — home leave timing, the new contract, and Immigration Department submission — so you don't have to juggle it yourself. Contact GMA.