Found a helper, need an agent to handle practical stuff only

We have found a helper that we would like to hire. It is our first time. She is on a existing contract that will expire soon. She prefers to start working directly after her old contract expires. She is from Philippines.


We would like to use an agent to just handle all the practicalities and paperwork. We want someone who can do this efficiently and without having to pay more then what is reasonable.


Any advice or suggestions?

Hey Danny cool, you can't live out unless you get special permission from Immigration. you must read the rules on employing an FDH, very big fines if you are found out.

Plus if an employee lives out and has an accident in other accomodation whilst not living in their employers home, who would be liable?

With regards to the agency, you need to phone round a few, and decide which you think is the best rate for processing, processing usually takes around 6 weeks, and during this time you are not allowed to have the FDH working for you at all untill she has been given permission by IMM, etc, I know from personal experience.

Plus unless her employer has relocated, the FDH will not get extended time in Hk while paperwork is completed, they will probably ask her to go back to Phils in between employers, ie 2 weeks after she has been released by previous employer

and then you pay the airfare etc back into HK. You can ask the agent if you are allowed to start doing any of the processing yet, but you may have to wait till her previous employer gives Imm notice of the FDH leaving.

Try to make sure the FDH has some kind of medical and pregnancy test before you sign the final papers, to avoid any problems for you when you first employ her, because once contract is signed youre stuck with her and any problems, the agency can arrange medical etc.

Sorry to sound negative, but From what I read you are new to employing a helper, and just offering a few tips to protect you in the long run. I do hope you have a happy and wonderfull relationship with your potential helper.

ACJ agency are good. 2377 2890.


As for more advice, There's a book for employers out there that will go through pretty much everything you need to think about. "Hiring and Managing Domestic Help".

I used Josie James Personnel: info@josiejamespersonnel.com

2377 1598


I believe if the helper has completed her two-year contract, then she is allowed to remain in HK to process her visa and does not need to return to the Philippines.


As long as she has all her paperwork, you could probably start processing while she's still working, to speed up the process.


Anyway, you're better off asking an agency because they'll know all the answers!

As Slammy says, if her contract is complete, she can defer the leave. Still has to take it later.