Updated 02 February 2026
Hiring a domestic helper is a big decision, and many employers find themselves choosing between a full-time foreign domestic helper and a local part-time domestic worker.
A full-time domestic helper offers continuity, familiarity with household routines, and dedicated care—especially helpful for families with young children, elderly parents, or special caregiving needs. However, Hong Kong’s labour and immigration rules mean that full-time domestic helpers must live with their employer, which may not suit every household.
This guide explains the key differences, costs, and legal considerations, so you can make an informed choice.
Full-time or part-time domestic helper?
Hiring a full-time domestic helper has a lot of benefits. That include having a closer and more personal housekeeping or caregiving service, especially if you want a person to take a closer look at your children or elderly people.
Yet, as the law requires full-time domestic helpers to live with the employer, some may turn to hiring a local part-time domestic helper. Please note that hiring a domestic helper with a full-time work visa is illegal and you may be prosecuted for that.
Full-Time vs Part-Time Domestic Helper: What’s the Difference?
Full-Time Domestic Helper
A full-time foreign domestic helper:
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Works for one employer only
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Must live in the employer’s residence (live-in rule)
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Is hired under a standard two-year employment contract
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Is covered by Hong Kong’s immigration and labour regulations
This option is suitable for families needing daily, ongoing support.
Part-Time Domestic Helper
A part-time domestic worker:
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Is usually a local worker (Hong Kong permanent resident or eligible to work locally)
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Works by the hour or per session
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Does not live with the employer
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Is often hired through agencies or platforms
Part-time help is popular for cleaning, occasional childcare support, or households with lighter needs.
Is It Legal to Hire a Part-Time Foreign Domestic Helper?
No. Under current Hong Kong Immigration Department rules, foreign domestic helpers are not allowed to work part-time.
A foreign domestic helper:
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May only work for the employer stated on their visa
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Cannot take part-time, freelance, or temporary jobs elsewhere
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Must live in the employer’s home as stated in the contract
Hiring a foreign domestic helper to work part-time—even for a few hours—is illegal.
Legal Consequences
If caught:
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Employers may face heavy fines and prosecution
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Employers may lose the right to hire a domestic helper in the future
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Helpers risk visa cancellation and may be banned from working in Hong Kong again
How is part-time domestic work service charged and how much?
Part-time domestic work service is often charged by the hour or by a package, e.g. number of hours x number of visit. With that said, you can get the service on a regular basis, e.g. 4 times a month, or have a one-off service.
The price of part-time domestic work service on a regular basis ranges from HK$85 to HK$105 per hour, depending on which platform / agency you are using, and price may be higher during public holidays and after work time (around 6 pm).
Whereas for one-off service, it usually charges for more, typically ranges from HK$100 to HK$125.
Where Can You Hire Part-Time Domestic Helpers?
Government Platform: Smart Living
The Smart Living platform was developed by the Employees Retraining Board and the Labour Department’s Interactive Employment Service.
It offers:
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Free referral service for household employers
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Access to local domestic workers
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Online vacancy posting and referral tracking
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Reference price lists
This option is suitable for employers who prefer a government-supported hiring channel.
Other Platforms and Agencies
Several private platforms and agencies in Hong Kong also provide part-time domestic services, including:
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HelloToby – flexible hourly and package-based services
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Lazy – cleaning and household support services
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Prestige Home Services Agency – part-time and short-term domestic help
These platforms often offer quick booking and replacement options but may charge service or platform fees.
Which Option Is Right for Your Household?
Choosing between full-time and part-time help depends on:
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Your daily caregiving needs
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Space availability at home
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Budget and scheduling preferences
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Legal compliance
If you need consistent childcare, eldercare, or daily household management, a full-time domestic helper may be more suitable. If your needs are occasional or task-based, part-time help can be a flexible alternative.
Hiring a Full-Time Domestic Helper the Right Way
If you decide to hire a full-time domestic helper, it is essential to follow Immigration Department requirements, Standard Employment Contract term, rest day, leave, and insurance obligations
At HelperChoice, employers can browse verified domestic helper profiles, hire directly without hidden agency fees, access guidance on legal and ethical hiring
Hiring legally protects both your household and the helper.
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