Contract Of Employment Domestic Worker Template for Hong Kong

When you hire a domestic worker in Hong Kong, whether local or foreign, you need a Contract Of Employment Domestic Worker that complies with Hong Kong's strict employment laws. This legally binding document establishes the foundation of your employment relationship and is mandatory for visa applications when hiring foreign domestic helpers.

When do you need this document?

You must execute this contract before your domestic worker begins employment. For foreign domestic helpers, the Immigration Department requires this contract as part of the visa application process, and it must use the standard ID 407 form. Local domestic workers also require a formal employment contract to ensure compliance with the Employment Ordinance. The contract is essential when renewing employment terms, changing working conditions, or transferring employment from another employer. You'll also need this document for any disputes or legal proceedings related to the employment relationship.

Key legal considerations

Your contract must specify the minimum allowable wage as set by the Hong Kong government, which is reviewed regularly and must be paid in addition to food and accommodation allowances for foreign domestic helpers. Working hours, rest days, and holiday entitlements must comply with the Employment Ordinance, with foreign domestic helpers entitled to at least one rest day per week. Accommodation provisions are critical - you must provide suitable and furnished accommodation, and deducting excessive amounts for food and lodging is prohibited. The contract should clearly outline duties and responsibilities, but cannot include tasks outside reasonable domestic work. Termination clauses must specify notice periods, with one month's notice required after the probationary period, and severance pay obligations under specific circumstances.

Legal requirements in Hong Kong

Under Hong Kong law, foreign domestic helper contracts must use the Immigration Department's standard contract form ID 407 and cannot be modified to reduce the helper's benefits below statutory minimums. The Employment Ordinance governs wages, working hours, rest days, statutory holidays, annual leave, sickness allowance, and maternity leave entitlements. The Immigration Ordinance requires that foreign domestic workers reside in their employer's home and work exclusively for the contracting employer. Your contract must specify the exact residential address where the helper will live and work. The Employees' Compensation Ordinance mandates that you provide insurance coverage for work-related injuries. All wages and benefits must meet or exceed government-stipulated minimums, and the contract must be signed by both parties in the presence of witnesses for foreign domestic helper visa applications.