Introduction
Your helper's two-year contract is coming to an end, and you want to keep her. Great news — renewing is far simpler (and cheaper) than hiring someone new. But the process involves multiple government offices, consulates, and strict deadlines that catch many employers off guard.
Whether you employ a Filipino or Indonesian domestic helper, this 2026 guide walks you through every step of the visa and contract renewal process in Hong Kong, including the latest fee changes and practical tips to avoid delays.
When Should You Start the Renewal Process?
Timing is critical. The Hong Kong Immigration Department allows you to submit a renewal application up to 8 weeks before the current visa expires. Given that processing takes 4 to 6 weeks, starting early is essential.
Here is a recommended timeline:
- 8 weeks before expiry — Begin gathering documents and consulate notarization
- 6 weeks before expiry — Submit the visa application to the Immigration Department
- 2 weeks before expiry — Follow up if you have not received the new visa
Missing the deadline means your helper's visa expires while the application is still being processed, creating complications that could require her to leave Hong Kong.
Step-by-Step: Filipino Helper Contract and Visa Renewal
Filipino helpers require a two-step process — first the consulate, then Immigration.
Step 1: POLO Contract Notarization
The new Standard Employment Contract must be notarized at the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) at least 1 month before the current contract expires. Either the employer or helper can submit the documents.
Required documents:
- POLO Information Sheet
- Photocopies of employer and helper HKID
- Helper's passport copy (photo page)
- Current work visa photocopy
- Current employment contract photocopy
- 4 original copies of the new employment contract
- A4 brown envelope with prepaid HK$5 ordinary postage stamps (for postal delivery of notarized contract)
Fees:
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| OWWA Membership (only if due for renewal) | HK$196 |
| MWO Verification Fee (renewal/transfer) | HK$80 |
| Total | HK$80 - HK$276 |
Processing time: 6 working days. Collect the notarized contract at the Philippine Consulate General.
POLO address: 16/F Mass Mutual Tower, 33 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai (9am-4pm, Sun-Thu)
Philippine Consulate General: 14/F United Centre, 95 Queensway, Admiralty (9am-4pm, Sun-Thu)
Step 2: Immigration Department Visa Application
Once you have the notarized contract, submit the visa renewal application to the Immigration Department in person or online.
Required documents:
- Completed forms ID 988A and ID 988B
- Original notarized employment contract copy
- Helper's original and photocopied passport
- Employer's proof of financial position and residential address
Visa fee: HK$330
Processing time: 4-6 weeks
Step-by-Step: Indonesian Helper Contract and Visa Renewal
For Indonesian helpers, the order is reversed — consulate notarization comes first, followed by Immigration.
Step 1: Indonesian Consulate Contract Notarization
Submit the following documents to the Indonesian Consulate General (KJRI Hong Kong):
- Letter stating willingness to renew and fulfillment of employment rights
- Completed and signed new Standard Employment Contract
- Supporting documents: insurance policy, previous contract, identity photocopies
Fee: HK$388
Timeline: Submit at least 8 weeks before the contract expires; allow 10 working days for processing.
KJRI address: 127-129 Leighton Road; 6-8 Keswick Street, Causeway Bay (9:30am-4:30pm, Mon-Fri; +852 3651 0200)
Step 2: Immigration Department Visa Application
Same process as for Filipino helpers:
- Completed forms ID 988A and ID 988B
- Original notarized employment contract copy
- Helper's original and photocopied passport
- Employer's proof of financial position and residential address
Visa fee: HK$330
Processing time: 4-6 weeks
2026 Costs at a Glance
Here is a summary of all renewal-related costs for 2026:
| Expense | Filipino Helper | Indonesian Helper |
|---|---|---|
| Consulate notarization | HK$80 - HK$276 | HK$388 |
| Immigration visa fee | HK$330 | HK$330 |
| Insurance (annual) | HK$500 - HK$1,500 | HK$500 - HK$1,500 |
| Total estimated | HK$910 - HK$2,106 | HK$1,218 - HK$2,218 |
Important 2026 update on MWO fees: As of March 1, 2026, the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) has increased the verification fee for new land-based employment contracts from HK$80 to HK$320. However, contract renewals for workers already employed in Hong Kong remain unaffected by this change — the new rates apply primarily to new hires.
Your helper's salary under the renewed contract must meet the current Minimum Allowable Wage of HK$5,100 per month (effective since September 30, 2025), plus the food allowance of HK$1,236 if you do not provide free meals.
Don't Forget: Insurance and Passport
Two items employers often overlook during renewal:
Insurance
Employers are legally required to maintain valid Employees' Compensation Insurance throughout the entire contract period. When renewing, check whether your current policy covers the new contract dates. Basic policies start around HK$500/year, but comprehensive plans covering hospitalization, dental, and outpatient care run HK$800+ and can save you from large unexpected medical bills.
Passport Validity
Your helper's passport must remain valid for the duration of the new contract. If it is expiring soon, start the passport renewal process early:
- Filipino helpers: Book an appointment at the Philippine Consulate General. Fee is HK$480, processing takes 6-12 weeks.
- Indonesian helpers: Visit KJRI Hong Kong directly. Fee is approximately HK$256, processing takes 3 working days.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
-
Starting too late — Begin the process at least 8 weeks before the visa expires. Late applications can result in your helper having to leave Hong Kong.
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Using the wrong contract form — Always use the government-issued Standard Employment Contract (Form ID 407).
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Forgetting to include the prepaid envelope — For Filipino helpers, the notarized contract is delivered by postal mail. Include an A4 envelope with HK$5 postage stamps.
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Not updating insurance — Ensure your helper's insurance policy is renewed to cover the new contract period.
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Ignoring passport expiry — If your helper's passport expires before the new contract ends, the visa application will be refused.
Conclusion
Renewing your domestic helper's visa and contract in Hong Kong is straightforward when you plan ahead and follow the correct steps. Start at least 8 weeks early, prepare all documents in advance, and budget around HK$900 to HK$2,200 for the full process. Compared to hiring a new helper — which can cost HK$10,000 to HK$20,000 in agency fees alone — renewal is by far the more economical and less disruptive option.
If you are happy with your helper, renewing her contract is one of the best decisions you can make for your family.
FAQ
Q: How long does the visa renewal process take? The Immigration Department typically processes visa renewals within 4 to 6 weeks. You should submit your application at least 6-8 weeks before the current visa expires to allow sufficient processing time.
Q: Can my helper stay in Hong Kong while the renewal is being processed? Yes. As long as the renewal application is submitted before the current visa expires, your helper can remain in Hong Kong while it is being processed. Her stay is typically extended pending the outcome.
Q: Do I need to give my helper a salary increase upon renewal? You must pay at least the current Minimum Allowable Wage of HK$5,100/month. If the MAW has increased since the original contract was signed, the new contract must reflect the updated minimum. You are free to offer more based on experience and performance.
Q: What if I want to change helpers instead of renewing? If you wish to hire a different helper, you will need to go through the full hiring process, including new visa applications and potentially higher costs. Your current helper must be given one month's notice (or one month's salary in lieu), and you are responsible for her return flight home.
Q: Are the new MWO verification fees applicable to renewals? No. The updated MWO verification fee of HK$320 (effective March 1, 2026) applies to new contracts only. Renewals for helpers already working in Hong Kong are not affected by this fee increase.
