First-time employer of DH. I have a question....

I have just found a lovely DH who will be ending her contract with her current employers end Aug 2008 due to re-location and her visa will expire at the same time.


We would like her to start with us on Oct 1st as that's when we move from our tiny 1 bedroom apartment into our new apartment (with maids quarters). We will submit the new contract to Immigration immediately in order for it to be processed by 1st October.


However, she doesn't want to return to the Philippines during the month of September and would prefer to stay in Hong Kong.


Should she apply for an extension of stay until her new visa is processed? I believe she is unable to work during this period but would I be right in thinking that she's still entitled to a return fare back to the Philippines which can be given as cash (her current employer pays the equivalent of the outward journey and I will pay for the return).


Also, any suggestions on where she could stay for the month of September. As mentioned, we don't have a room for her until 1st October. Could we look into a boarding house?


Your comments and suggestions would be much appreciated!

"However, she doesn't want to return to the Philippines during the month of September and would prefer to stay in Hong Kong."


Well, that is her business I guess. As I understand it, she may have to leave HK for a short period, but she can just go to Macau.



"would I be right in thinking that she's still entitled to a return fare back to the Philippines which can be given as cash"


Correct.



"Also, any suggestions on where she could stay for the month of September. As mentioned, we don't have a room for her until 1st October. Could we look into a boarding house?"


Most helpers know that stuff pretty well. Also technically you don't need to deal with any of those logistics. Since she hasn't started you shouldn't even pay.

this remind me of a scenario when I was renewing my contract at the immigration. a Dh, who is processing her new contract as well, was having a hard time dealing with the immigraiton officers becuase instead of going home to her country of origin, she exited through china instead. well, as the end of the day she was able to renew her contract heehee. for you case, there are a lof of boarding houses rented by my fellow DHs in there. Yes, I think your prospect DH knows about that. Best thing to do is let her exit on her preferred destination then you can refund the cost of her one way ticket coming back to HK once she's working in your household already.... and every papers are final...


er, just my two cents heehee

Many thanks for your comments. After doing more research on the immigration website, it states that as of 1st August 2008 there's new arrangements whereby Dh's are not required to leave Hong Kong after termination of the existing contract and before commencement of new contracts. We've managed to find a solution to this issue....many thanks!