Restrictions on the scope of work of foreign domestic helpers
This article begins by discussing the scope of work for FDHs and shares the regulations that employers must comply with. Since FDHs need approval from the Immigration Department and the issuance of a work visa to work in Hong Kong, employers must also comply with the "Immigration Ordinance" and the conditions specified in the work visa. Employers must be aware of the content of these regulations, as failure to do so may result in charges for aiding or abetting FDHs in violating their visa conditions, leading to potential prosecution.
Termination of Foreign Domestic Helper Contracts with Salary & Insurance Arrangements
Dealing with the termination of a Foreign Domestic Helper(FDH) contract in Hong Kong is not as straightforward as hiring one. Employers must adhere to various regulations outlined in the "Standard Employment Contract." Below, we outline the scenarios for terminating a FDH contract, and its salary and insurance arrangements.
Can I “buy” the paid holiday from the foreign domestic helpers?
According to the Employment Ordinance, foreign domestic helpers(FDHs) are entitled to rest days, statutory holidays, and paid annual leave, among other benefits. Employers should discuss arrangements with their FDHs , such as whether rest days are fixed or flexible, as soon as possible after their arrival or even during the interview. Employers usually hire FDHs for tasks like housework, childcare, or elderly care. Sometimes, there may be a need for their services on the FDH’s rest day. Can employers request to compensate them with wages in lieu of the leave day, in addition to requesting leave changes? And, would such arrangements violate the Employment Ordinance or the employment contract?
Minimum wage and food allowance adjustment for foreign domestic helpers(September 2023)
Every year around September, the government announces adjustments to the minimum wages and food allowance for foreign domestic helpers (FDHs) in Hong Kong. This year's adjustments have been made public, with both items being increased for the second consecutive year. Let's take a closer look at the increases and the effective date.
Foreign Domestic Helper falls seriously ill right after arrival! Is the employer required to take responsibility?
Last year, there was a news reporting "Filipino Domestic Helper Falls Seriously Ill Right After Arrival! Employer Pays for ICU Treatment, Medical Costs Totaling...". The story highlights a Filipino domestic helper who, shortly after arriving in Singapore, felt unwell on her almost immediately. She eventually had to stay in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for 27 days, and medical examinations revealed she suffered from renal failure and pulmonary tuberculosis. Fortunately, her condition stabilized, and she was able to return home for further treatment via a medical charter flight. However, the total cost of her 27-day treatment and the medical flight amounted to nearly HK$930,000. Fortunately, her employer, generously covered these expenses and even provided emergency funds to the helper's family. Have you ever wondered what would happen if a similar situation occurred in Hong Kong?
Minimum Wage, Meal Allowance, and Maternity Leave Arrangements for Foreign Domestic Helpers in Hong Kong
When hiring foreign domestic helpers(FDHs) in Hong Kong, employers are required to adhere to a series of regulations set by the government in the "Standard Employment Contract." Failure to comply with these requirements can result in fines or even imprisonment for employers. Therefore, prospective employers should pay close attention. This article will share information about the minimum wage, meal allowance, and maternity leave arrangements for foreign domestic helpers.
Q&A: "Job-hopping" among foreign domestic helper
There are many discussions on the Internet that complaining about foreign domestic helpers "job-hopping”. This article would like to share some basic information about what, why, how regarding "job-hopping" among foreign domestic helper(FDH).