How do I terminate a foreign domestic helper contract in Hong Kong?

Overview

Ending a domestic helper contract early is a formal process with specific notification, payment, and timing requirements. Following the correct steps protects both parties and reduces the risk of a Labour Tribunal dispute.

Step-by-Step Termination Process

1. Serve one month's written notice to the helper — or pay one month's wages in lieu if the employment is to end immediately.

2. Calculate and prepare all final payments — outstanding wages, wages in lieu of notice (if applicable), untaken annual leave pay, and pro-rata leave pay.

3. Arrange the return airfare — an economy ticket to the helper's place of origin, plus a daily food and travel allowance (typically HK$100/day).

4. Notify the Immigration Department — both parties must notify the Immigration Department in writing within 7 days of the termination date. Use Form ID407E, available on the Immigration Department website.

5. Make all final payments on the last day of employment — wages must not be delayed beyond the final working day.

6. The helper departs Hong Kong — the helper must leave within 2 weeks of termination, or before visa expiry, whichever comes first.

What the Employer Must Pay on Termination

Payment	When required
Outstanding wages	Always
Wages in lieu of notice (if no month's notice given)	Always
Untaken annual leave pay	Always
Pro-rata annual leave pay (if 3–12 months in leave year)	If applicable
Return airfare	Always
Severance Pay	If employed 24+ months and dismissed for redundancy
Long Service Payment	If employed 5+ years, not dismissed for misconduct

For a full breakdown of each payment, see the employer payments guide.

Important Notes

• It is illegal to dismiss a helper who is pregnant, on paid sick leave, or who has given evidence in employment proceedings
• Failure to notify the Immigration Department within 7 days is an offence
• Retain copies of all termination paperwork in case of a future Labour Tribunal claim
• Use GMA's termination calculator to estimate all amounts due before serving notice.
• If you plan to hire again, review the total costs of hiring a new helper.

Related Resources

• Form ID407E — Notification of Termination
• Labour Department — termination guide

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