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?
The Hong Kong Immigration Department allows renewal applications up to 8 weeks before the current visa expires. The Immigration Department's performance pledge is to finalise 90% of FDH applications within 6 weeks after receiving all necessary documents.
Here is a recommended timeline:
- 8 weeks before expiry — Begin gathering documents
- 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
1. Immigration Department visa application
Prepare the new Standard Employment Contract and the application documents required by the Immigration Department. Follow the Department's current renewal checklist and approval instructions. The Immigration Department's performance pledge is to finalise 90% of FDH applications within 6 weeks after receiving all necessary documents.
Visa fee: HK$330
2. MWO contract verification
For renewal/transfer contract verification, the Migrant Workers Office (MWO, formerly POLO) requires two sets of the original Standard Employment Contract, the employer's and helper's HKID copies, the helper's original passport and copy, a printed copy of the new employment e-Visa, and the completed OWWA OFW information sheet.
Processing time: MWO usually releases verified renewal/transfer contracts on the same day. This published process does not apply to new hires.
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| OWWA Membership (only if due for renewal) | HK$196 |
| MWO Verification Fee (renewal/transfer) | HK$80 |
| Total | HK$80 - HK$276 |
MWO address: Unit 2902, 29/F, United Centre, 95 Queensway, Admiralty (9am-4pm, Sun-Thu)
Step-by-Step: Indonesian Helper Contract and Visa Renewal
For Indonesian helpers, consulate requirements and Immigration application steps differ from the MWO renewal verification process above.
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
The Immigration Department's performance pledge is to finalise 90% of FDH applications within 6 weeks after receiving all necessary documents.
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$5,220 per month (effective since October 3, 2026), 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
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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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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
How long does the visa renewal process take? The Immigration Department's performance pledge is to finalise 90% of FDH applications within 6 weeks after receiving all necessary documents. Submit the application early enough to allow for document preparation and any follow-up requests.
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.
Do I need to give my helper a salary increase upon renewal? You must pay at least the current Minimum Allowable Wage of HK$5,220/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.
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.
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.
