Best Helper Agencies in Hong Kong (2026 Guide)
Hong Kong is one of the world's largest employers of foreign domestic helpers, with over 340,000 helpers working in the city. Choosing a licensed, reputable agency is the most important step in hiring a helper who fits your family. In Hong Kong the term "helper" or "domestic helper" is standard. In Singapore the same role is also called a "helper," while in the Middle East people use "maid" and in China "ayi." In this guide we use "helper" to refer to anyone who helps with cooking and household duties. This guide covers the best helper agencies in Hong Kong, government regulations, fees, and practical tips for families hiring in 2026.
Key Points
- Only use agencies with a valid Employment Agency Licence from the Labour Department
- Agency fees for employers are capped at 10% of the first month's salary
- The Standard Employment Contract is mandatory for all foreign domestic helpers
- Helpers must live in the employer's home under Hong Kong law
- The minimum allowable wage (MAW) is reviewed annually by the government
- Medical checks, visa processing, and insurance are required before your helper starts
What are the best helper agencies in Hong Kong?
Some of the most established helper agencies in Hong Kong include Fair Employment Agency, Arrow Employment Services, Sunlight Employment Agency, Anford, Overseas Employment Centre, Helpwise, Helper Choice, and Global Domestic. Each agency specialises in helpers from different countries including the Philippines, Indonesia, and Myanmar.
How much do helper agencies charge in Hong Kong?
By law, Hong Kong employment agencies can charge employers a maximum of 10% of the helper's first month's salary as a placement fee. Total costs including visa fees, medical checks, and insurance typically range from HKD 5,000 to HKD 15,000 depending on the agency and whether you are hiring a new or transfer helper.
How do I hire a foreign domestic helper in Hong Kong?
You must apply through the Immigration Department for a work visa for your helper. The process requires a completed Standard Employment Contract, proof of income (minimum HKD 15,000 per month), medical check results, and an employment agency agreement. Processing typically takes four to eight weeks.
What are the Immigration Department requirements for hiring a helper?
Employers must earn at least HKD 15,000 per month and provide suitable accommodation. The helper must sign a Standard Employment Contract, pass a medical examination, and hold a valid passport. The visa application is submitted to the Immigration Department and typically takes four to eight weeks to process.
What to Look For in a Helper Agency
The most important factor is a valid Employment Agency Licence issued by the Labour Department. You can verify any agency's licence on the Labour Department website.
Look for agencies that:
- Are transparent about all fees upfront
- Follow the EA Code of Practice
- Provide proper orientation for helpers
- Offer a replacement guarantee if the placement does not work out
- Have a physical office you can visit
Avoid agencies that charge helpers excessive fees or pressure you into quick decisions.
Top Helper Agencies in Hong Kong
Here is a comparison of well-known agencies operating in Hong Kong:
| Agency | Nationalities | Services | Price Range (HKD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fair Employment Agency | Philippines, Indonesia | Ethical recruitment, no fees to helpers | 8,000–12,000 |
| Arrow Employment Services | Philippines, Indonesia, Myanmar | New and transfer helpers | 6,000–14,000 |
| Sunlight Employment Agency | Philippines, Indonesia | Full placement, visa processing | 5,000–12,000 |
| Anford | Philippines, Indonesia, Sri Lanka | New, transfer, and part-time | 7,000–15,000 |
| Overseas Employment Centre | Philippines, Indonesia | Large database, established since 1980s | 6,000–13,000 |
| Helpwise | Philippines, Indonesia | Online matching platform | 5,000–10,000 |
| Helper Choice | Philippines, Indonesia, Myanmar | Online platform with agency support | 4,000–12,000 |
| Global Domestic | Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand | New and experienced helpers | 6,000–14,000 |
Prices include placement fees and basic processing. Visa fees, medical checks, and insurance are usually additional.
Hong Kong Immigration and Labour Regulations
All foreign domestic helpers in Hong Kong must work under a Standard Employment Contract (SEC) approved by the Immigration Department. Key regulations include:
- Minimum Allowable Wage (MAW): Reviewed annually; currently around HKD 4,870 per month (check the latest figure on the Labour Department website)
- Free accommodation: Employers must provide suitable living quarters with reasonable privacy
- Free food or food allowance: If you do not provide meals, you must pay a food allowance (currently around HKD 1,236 per month)
- Rest days: At least one rest day per week (24 consecutive hours)
- Statutory holidays: Helpers are entitled to all 13 statutory holidays
- Contract period: Standard two-year contracts
- Live-in requirement: Helpers must live in the employer's home
The Labour Department publishes detailed guidelines for employers and helpers on their website.
Agency Fees and Cost Breakdown
Here is a typical cost breakdown when hiring a helper through an agency in Hong Kong:
| Cost Item | Estimated Amount (HKD) |
|---|---|
| Agency placement fee | 3,000–8,000 |
| Visa application fee | 230 |
| Helper's medical check | 500–1,000 |
| Employee compensation insurance | 1,500–3,000/year |
| Contract notarisation (if applicable) | 500–1,000 |
| Helper's travel (if hiring from abroad) | 2,000–5,000 |
| Total estimated first-time cost | 7,730–18,230 |
For transfer helpers (already in Hong Kong), costs are typically lower since travel and some processing fees are not needed.
Interview Tips for Families
When interviewing potential helpers, focus on practical questions:
- Cooking experience: Ask what dishes they can cook and whether they are comfortable with your family's cuisine preferences (Chinese, Western, Southeast Asian, etc.)
- Language skills: Cantonese is helpful for shopping and daily life, but English or Mandarin may be sufficient depending on your household
- Dietary requirements: Explain any allergies, halal/vegetarian requirements, or children's food preferences
- Experience with children or elderly: If relevant, ask about specific caregiving experience
- Live-in expectations: Discuss house rules, rest day arrangements, and daily schedules
Ask for references from previous employers and verify them before making a decision.
Training Your New Helper
Once your helper starts, invest time in proper orientation:
- Show them around the kitchen and explain where everything is stored
- Cook key family dishes together during the first week
- Write down your family's favourite recipes with clear measurements and steps
- Create a weekly meal plan so your helper knows what to shop for and cook each day
Some families use MealSide to share meal plans and recipes digitally with their helpers, making it easy to update plans and add new dishes over time.
Be patient during the first month. It takes time for a new helper to learn your family's preferences and routines.
Common Mistakes When Hiring a Helper
Avoid these common pitfalls:
- Using unlicensed agencies: Always verify the Employment Agency Licence on the Labour Department website
- Not checking references: Speak to at least one previous employer before hiring
- Skipping the medical check: A medical examination is required and protects both the helper and your family
- Unclear job scope: The Standard Employment Contract lists domestic duties — be specific about expectations during the interview
- Paying excessive agency fees: Employers should pay no more than 10% of the first month's salary; helpers should not be overcharged either
- Not reading the contract: Review every clause of the Standard Employment Contract before signing
Live-In Requirement in Hong Kong
Unlike Singapore where helpers also live in, Hong Kong's live-in requirement is strictly enforced by the Immigration Department. Your helper must reside at your home address as stated in the employment contract.
| Aspect | Live-In (Mandatory in HK) | Part-Time Cleaning |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Full-time, live-in | Hourly bookings |
| Cooking | Daily meal preparation | Not included |
| Cost | MAW + food + accommodation | HKD 100–200/hour |
| Visa required | Yes (FDH visa) | No (local workers only) |
| Contract | Standard Employment Contract | Private arrangement |
If you only need occasional cleaning without live-in help, consider licensed part-time cleaning services instead.
FAQs
How long does it take to hire a helper in Hong Kong?
The entire process typically takes six to ten weeks. This includes selecting a helper, processing the visa application with the Immigration Department (four to eight weeks), and arranging travel if hiring from abroad.
Can I hire a helper who is already in Hong Kong?
Yes, you can hire a transfer helper who has finished or terminated their current contract. This is often faster and cheaper since the helper is already in Hong Kong and familiar with the city.
What is the minimum salary for a domestic helper in Hong Kong?
The government sets a Minimum Allowable Wage (MAW) that is reviewed annually. As of 2025, the MAW is approximately HKD 4,870 per month. Check the Labour Department website for the current figure.
Do I need to provide a separate room for my helper?
You must provide suitable accommodation with reasonable privacy. While a separate room is ideal, the Immigration Department accepts other arrangements if they meet basic standards of privacy and space.
Can my helper work for someone else on rest days?
No, foreign domestic helpers in Hong Kong are only permitted to work for the employer named in their employment contract. Working for another employer is a breach of the conditions of stay.
What happens if my helper wants to leave before the contract ends?
Either party can terminate the contract by giving one month's notice or one month's salary in lieu of notice. The helper must find a new employer and obtain a new visa, or leave Hong Kong within two weeks of contract termination.