In reaction to the Coronavirus outbreak in Hong Kong, the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) has suspended some of its services. As a result, the processing of foreign domestic helpers contracts is being affected. These changes are in effect until further notice.
Agency required to process finished and special cases contracts
Previously, domestic helpers with a finished contract or a special case contract (with ID522 letter) and their new employer can process the hiring by themselves without using an agency. However, they will now need to use an agency to process the employment. Hence, the situation now is that the hiring of a domestic helper with any types of contract except contract renewal (hiring the same helper) will require an agency to process.
First-time helpers not available
Notarization of employment contracts is suspended for first-time domestic helpers. As the Hong Kong Immigration Department requires the employment contract of first-time Filipino domestic workers to be notarised by POLO, the employment of these first-time is not available at the moment.
We advise you to hire domestic helpers with a finished contract or a terminated contract. Click here to search for domestic helpers in Hong Kong.
Contract renewal with notarisation
Notarization of employment renewal contracts is suspended. The good news is domestic helpers can now skip the contract notarization process and go directly to Hong Kong Immigration to apply for their new visa. Employers can also save HK$280 for the Verification Fee (HK$80.00) and the Authentication Fee (HK$200.00).
See also the latest update on contract extension and visa extension.
Limited assistance to online processing of OEC
Assistance to BM Online processing of OEC is suspended for those who already registered and returning to the same employer. Assistance remains normal for those going for a vacation for the first time and transferring to a new employer.
Conciliation meetings suspended
Holding of conciliation meetings between employers and domestic helpers is suspended except ones that were already scheduled.
For more details, please refer to these notices put out by POLO: 22 March Advisory, 23 March Advisory
You might also be interested in:
