Hiring help

HIRING A DOMESTIC HELPER

We can all do with a helping hand every once in a while and Hong Kong’s domestic helpers are some of the best

The majority of residents, particularly those with children usually hire a domestic helper. Local helpers can be hired on a part or full-time basis. Foreign domestic helpers (typically from the Philippines or Indonesia) can only legally be employed full time on a twoyear, live-in contract.

Who can hire a helper?

You need to be a Hong Kong resident with a monthly household income of no less than $15,000.

How do I find a helper?

It is best to do so by word of mouth. There are specialist helper recruitment agencies but many have come under fire for disreputable practices. Either way, you must enter into a binding Standard Employment Contract (ID407) and apply to the Immigration Department for an employment visa for the helper.

How much will a helper cost me?

The Minimum Allowable

Wage (MAW) for a full-time live-in helper (at the time of writing) is $4,630 per month, but many people pay above this depending on years of duty and level of experience. Employers must also provide food, or a food allowance of no less than $1,121 per month; suitable accommodation with access to cooking and bathroom facilities; insurance and medical care; pay all hiringrelated costs; and airfares for an annual trip home leave.

Things to be aware of

• Employers must give their helpers a full day of rest every week. • Helpers are entitled to 12 statutory paid holiday days as well as annual leave (seven days per year in their first two years of contract). It is up to you whether you also wish to give your helper extra time off such as all general public holidays or an extended holiday.

• A special application must be made should you need your helper to take up driving duties, for which they also need a valid Hong Kong driving licence.

• It is illegal to employ a fulltime foreign domestic helper, who doesn’t live in your home.

Domestic helper interviews

Interviewing a domestic helper may seem daunting as you will probably feel under pressure to get the right fit for your needs and family dynamics. Just view the interview as a general conversation about who they are and what work experience they have had (eg. What is your current daily schedule? Can you cook? Do you have experience with children?) and remember that the helper will likely be as nervous as you are. Don’t feel you have to hire on the spot or after one meeting and if possible, get references from a previous employer.