Question 1

What is the minimum wage for a domestic helper in Hong Kong in 2026?

Accepted Answer

Contracts signed from 3 October 2026 require HK$5,220/month MAW, plus free food or at least HK$1,236 allowance separately. Cash food makes HK$6,456 before other costs. Existing contracts retain their signing-date rules and agreed wage.

Question 2

How long does it take to get a domestic helper visa in Hong Kong?

Accepted Answer

The standard tracked journey from hire confirmation to helper arrival takes 6–8 weeks. Visa approval typically takes 4–6 weeks after document submission. Transfer helpers already in Hong Kong may follow the shorter 4–6 week route; overseas hires from the Philippines or Indonesia can take longer when origin-country endorsement and medical requirements apply.

Question 3

How much does it cost to hire a domestic helper in Hong Kong in 2026?

Accepted Answer

Monthly wages for contracts signed from 3 October 2026 are at least HK$5,220, plus free food or at least HK$1,236 cash food allowance separately. Insurance, travel, government, consular and service fees depend on the case and package. There is no monthly employer levy. Use the cost guide with your actual route and written quote.

Question 4

What is SeekHelpers and is it a licensed agency?

Accepted Answer

SeekHelpers is a licensed Hong Kong domestic helper employment agency, Licence No. EA 82832, issued by the Hong Kong Labour Department. SeekHelpers is also registered with the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA MWOHK-2025-529-085).

Question 5

Is there a monthly FDH levy in Hong Kong?

Accepted Answer

No. Hong Kong abolished the HK$400 monthly Employees Retraining Levy for foreign domestic helper employers on 1 August 2013.

Question 6

What is the difference between a Filipino and Indonesian domestic helper?

Accepted Answer

Both nationalities use the same signing-date MAW: HK$5,220/month for contracts signed from 3 October 2026. Assess each candidate's actual language, care skills and experience rather than assuming them from nationality. Consular and origin-country procedures differ by route.

Question 7

What is the two-week rule for domestic helpers in Hong Kong?

Accepted Answer

When a helper's contract is terminated, she must leave Hong Kong within 2 weeks of the termination date (or the remaining permitted stay period, whichever is shorter), unless a new employment contract and visa are arranged within that window.

Question 8

What is a transfer helper vs an overseas hire in Hong Kong?

Accepted Answer

A transfer helper is an FDH already in Hong Kong whose contract has ended — she can start in 2–4 weeks. An overseas hire is recruited from the Philippines or Indonesia, taking 8–14 weeks. Transfer helpers cost less and are available sooner; overseas hires have no HK reference history.

Question 9

Is domestic helper insurance mandatory in Hong Kong?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Employees' Compensation (EC) insurance is mandatory under the Employees' Compensation Ordinance (Cap. 282) and must be purchased before the helper's first day. Failure is a criminal offence with fines up to HK$100,000 and 2 years' imprisonment. EC insurance costs approximately HK$550–1,300 for a 2-year policy.

Question 10

Do I need to pay MPF for my domestic helper in Hong Kong?

Accepted Answer

No. Foreign domestic helpers are explicitly exempt from the MPF Scheme. Neither employer nor helper makes MPF contributions. However, employers have separate obligations under the Employment Ordinance for Severance Pay (after 2 years) and Long Service Payment (after 5 years), both calculated at 2/3 month salary per year of service.

Hiring a Domestic Helper — in Hong Kong — FAQ

Find Verified Helpers on SeekHelpers