Planning to hire a foreign domestic helper (Filipino or Indonesian) in Hong Kong? To help you care for your family with ease, we have compiled the most comprehensive and accurate application guide. From employer income requirements and mandatory document checklists to the latest salary regulations and the 6-step hiring process, this article covers every detail to ensure a smooth hiring journey!
2026 Ultimate Guide to Hiring a Domestic Helper
A Complete Overview of Process, Employer Eligibility, Document Checklist, and Salary & Benefits
Planning to hire a foreign domestic helper (Filipino or Indonesian) in Hong Kong? To help you care for your family with ease, we have compiled the most comprehensiveapplication guide. From employer income requirement screenings and mandatory document checklists to the latest salary regulations and the 6-step hiring process, this article covers every detail to ensure a smooth hiring journey!
📋 1. Employer Eligibility and Family Income Requirements
To hire a domestic helper in Hong Kong, employers must meet the financial and status eligibility criteria set by the Immigration Department. For each helper employed, the following basic conditions must be met:
- • Residency & Employment Proof:The employer must be a Hong Kong permanent resident or hold a valid corporate employment contract proving employment in Hong Kong.
- • Family Income & Financial Ability Requirements (Choose One):
1. Monthly Family Income:Not less than HK$15,000(calculated independently for each foreign domestic helper employed).
2. Asset or Fixed Deposit Proof:Provide sufficient financial proof to support expenses throughout the entire employment contract period (e.g., a fixed deposit of HK$360,000 or above). - • Acceptable Financial Proof Documents:The applicant's salary/income proof for the past 3 to 6 months, a copy of the latest tax demand note (HK$180,000 or above), or bank fixed deposit/asset statements.
💡 FAQ: What if one of the employers cannot provide income proof?
If one party cannot provide sufficient income proof, it can be provided by a spouse or family member. In this case, proof of relationship must be attached:
If one party cannot provide sufficient income proof, it can be provided by a spouse or family member. In this case, proof of relationship must be attached:
- Spousal Relationship:Copy of the latest tax demand note + copy of the marriage certificate (if lost, a child's birth certificate can be used as supporting evidence).
- Parent-Child Relationship:Copy of the latest tax demand note + copy of the birth certificate.
📂 2. Mandatory Document Checklist for Application
Please prepare the following supporting documents when submitting your application to expedite the Immigration Department's approval process:
1. Identity and Proof of Address
Copy of Hong Kong ID card (or passport and valid visa). Original/copy of proof of address within the past 3 months (e.g., rates, electricity, water, or gas bills). Public housing tenants must attach a Housing Department certificate and cohabitation permit.
2. Family Members and Proof of Relationship
English full names, dates of birth, and ID card numbers of all household members. If hiring on behalf of parents or family members, proof of relationship and an additional letter of guarantee are required.
3. Contract Renewal or Additional Hire Documents
If you already employ an active domestic helper at home, you must submit copies of that helper's ID card, passport, and current employment contract.
⚙️ 3. The 6-Step Hiring Process and Timeline in Hong Kong
From selecting a helper to successful arrival, the entire application process takes anywhere from a few weeks to several months:
Step 1: Selection & Interview (Same Day)
Select a suitable Filipino or Indonesian helper based on family needs and conduct a video interview.
Select a suitable Filipino or Indonesian helper based on family needs and conduct a video interview.
Step 2: Sign Contract & Pay Fees (2-3 Weeks)
Once the candidate is confirmed, sign the official employment contract and settle agency fees.
Once the candidate is confirmed, sign the official employment contract and settle agency fees.
Step 3: Consulate Notarization (2 Weeks)
Submit the contract to the respective country's consulate in Hong Kong for official notarization.
Submit the contract to the respective country's consulate in Hong Kong for official notarization.
Step 4: Immigration Visa Approval (6-8 Weeks)
Submit all documents to the Hong Kong Immigration Department for work visa processing.
Submit all documents to the Hong Kong Immigration Department for work visa processing.
Steps 5 & 6: Collect Visa & Arrange Arrival
Upon successful work visa approval, arrange flight tickets for the helper to travel to Hong Kong:
🇵🇭 Filipino Helpers (FDHs):Estimated arrival time is about 2-3 weeks.
🇮🇩 Indonesian Helpers (FDHs):Estimated arrival time is about 4-6 weeks.
Upon successful work visa approval, arrange flight tickets for the helper to travel to Hong Kong:
🇵🇭 Filipino Helpers (FDHs):Estimated arrival time is about 2-3 weeks.
🇮🇩 Indonesian Helpers (FDHs):Estimated arrival time is about 4-6 weeks.
⚖️ 4. Legal Responsibilities of Employers: Minimum Wage & Employee Benefits
According to Hong Kong law, the domestic helper must reside at the contract address, and the employer must provide suitable and reasonable accommodation with privacy, while strictly adhering to the following statutory terms:
| Item | Statutory Standards & Benefit Specifications |
|---|---|
| Minimum Wage | The current statutory Minimum Allowable Wage for domestic helpers is HK$5,100 per month. |
| Leave & Holidays | 1 rest day per week, 14 statutory holidays per year, and a minimum of 7 days of paid annual leave depending on years of service. |
| Medical & Insurance | Responsible for all medical expenses during employment (regardless of whether they are work-related) and legally required to purchase comprehensive domestic helper insurance (Employees' Compensation Insurance). |
| Allowances & Travel | Responsible for round-trip flight tickets between the helper's place of origin and Hong Kong, food and transit allowances, statutory sickness allowance, severance payment, or long service payment. |
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Mich Kho
10 June 2026
★★★★★
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I am highly satisfied with the services of this maid agency. They efficiently matched me with a suitable helper, making the entire process completely hassle-free and smooth.
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Clare Leong
28 May 2026
★★★★★
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When I approached this agency, I had very specific requirements, and they fulfilled every single one of them. Highly recommended!
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Amy Lai
26 May 2026
★★★★★
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I was looking for someone to take care of the elderly at home, and Ms Wong went above and beyond to find the right match for me.
