{"id":12119,"date":"2024-01-03T04:11:40","date_gmt":"2024-01-02T20:11:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/domestic-helper\/annual-leave-and-holidays\/"},"modified":"2026-01-20T01:43:51","modified_gmt":"2026-01-19T17:43:51","slug":"annual-leaves-and-statutory-holidays","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/annual-leaves-and-statutory-holidays\/","title":{"rendered":"Domestic Helper Annual Leave and Holidays in Hong Kong  \u2014 Your Complete FAQ Guide 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><em>(Updated on <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">January 16, 2026<\/span>)<\/em><\/p><div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_81 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/annual-leaves-and-statutory-holidays\/#What_types_of_leave_is_a_domestic_helper_entitled_to_in_Hong_Kong\" >What types of leave is a domestic helper entitled to in Hong Kong?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/annual-leaves-and-statutory-holidays\/#What_rest_day_is_a_domestic_helper_entitled_to\" >What rest day is a domestic helper entitled to?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/annual-leaves-and-statutory-holidays\/#What_are_statutory_holidays_for_domestic_helpers\" >What are statutory holidays for domestic helpers?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/annual-leaves-and-statutory-holidays\/#Key_things_to_note\" >Key things to note:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/annual-leaves-and-statutory-holidays\/#What_is_%E2%80%9CAnnual_leave%E2%80%9D_for_a_domestic_helper\" >What is \u201cAnnual leave\u201d for a domestic helper?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/annual-leaves-and-statutory-holidays\/#How_many_annual_leave_days_does_a_helper_get\" >How many annual leave days does a helper get?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/annual-leaves-and-statutory-holidays\/#When_does_the_helper_qualify_for_annual_leave\" >When does the helper qualify for annual leave?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/annual-leaves-and-statutory-holidays\/#How_is_an_annual_leave_arranged\" >How is an annual leave arranged?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/annual-leaves-and-statutory-holidays\/#Can_annual_leave_be_split_into_parts\" >Can annual leave be split into parts?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/annual-leaves-and-statutory-holidays\/#How_is_annual_leave_paid\" >How is annual leave paid?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/annual-leaves-and-statutory-holidays\/#What_happens_if_the_contract_ends_before_annual_leave_is_taken\" >What happens if the contract ends before annual leave is taken?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/annual-leaves-and-statutory-holidays\/#Do_rest_days_or_statutory_holidays_count_as_annual_leave\" >Do rest days or statutory holidays count as annual leave?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/annual-leaves-and-statutory-holidays\/#Do_I_still_pay_food_allowance_during_annual_leave\" >Do I still pay food allowance during annual leave?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/annual-leaves-and-statutory-holidays\/#Can_unused_annual_leave_be_cashed_out\" >Can unused annual leave be cashed out?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/annual-leaves-and-statutory-holidays\/#What_is_%E2%80%9Chome_leave%E2%80%9D_and_how_is_it_different\" >What is \u201chome leave\u201d and how is it different?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/annual-leaves-and-statutory-holidays\/#Can_annual_leave_be_combined_with_home_leave\" >Can annual leave be combined with home leave?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/annual-leaves-and-statutory-holidays\/#How_does_this_protect_employers_helpers\" >How does this protect employers &amp; helpers?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/annual-leaves-and-statutory-holidays\/#Summary_of_Key_Points\" >Summary of Key Points<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/annual-leaves-and-statutory-holidays\/#You_might_also_be_interested_in\" >You might also be interested in:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<p data-start=\"727\" data-end=\"1035\">Understanding domestic helper\u2019s leave rights isn\u2019t just good practice \u2014 it\u2019s required by law in Hong Kong. This guide breaks down everything employers and helpers need to know about <strong data-start=\"914\" data-end=\"943\">annual leave entitlements<\/strong>, <strong data-start=\"945\" data-end=\"964\">public holidays<\/strong>, <strong data-start=\"966\" data-end=\"979\">rest days<\/strong>, <strong data-start=\"981\" data-end=\"995\">home leave<\/strong>, and more.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"727\" data-end=\"1035\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/yoopies-cms2f548f8009-f355-4834-a990-ae2f4642a2bf-calendarplannerscheduledomestichelperholiday.jpg\" alt=\"2024 Domestic Helpers Holidays | HelperChoice | An Ethical Maid Agency\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_types_of_leave_is_a_domestic_helper_entitled_to_in_Hong_Kong\"><\/span>What types of leave is a domestic helper entitled to in Hong Kong?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"1039\" data-end=\"1217\">Under Hong Kong\u2019s <strong data-start=\"1057\" data-end=\"1081\">Employment Ordinance<\/strong>, foreign domestic helpers are entitled to several types of leave. Each one serves a different purpose and should be treated separately:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"1219\" data-end=\"1494\">\n<li data-start=\"1219\" data-end=\"1273\">\n<p data-start=\"1221\" data-end=\"1273\"><strong data-start=\"1221\" data-end=\"1234\">Rest Days<\/strong> \u2013 At least one rest day every 7 days<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1274\" data-end=\"1334\">\n<p data-start=\"1276\" data-end=\"1334\"><strong data-start=\"1276\" data-end=\"1298\">Statutory Holidays<\/strong> \u2013 Paid public holidays set by law<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1335\" data-end=\"1408\">\n<p data-start=\"1337\" data-end=\"1408\"><strong data-start=\"1337\" data-end=\"1358\">Paid Annual Leave<\/strong> \u2013 Yearly paid leave that increases with service<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1409\" data-end=\"1494\">\n<p data-start=\"1411\" data-end=\"1494\"><strong data-start=\"1411\" data-end=\"1425\">Home Leave<\/strong> \u2013 Leave to return to the helper\u2019s home country during the contract<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"1496\" data-end=\"1601\">These entitlements help ensure helpers get enough rest while giving employers clear guidelines to follow.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"1644\" data-end=\"1647\" \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_rest_day_is_a_domestic_helper_entitled_to\"><\/span>What rest day is a domestic helper entitled to?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"965\" data-end=\"1233\">Domestic helpers in Hong Kong are entitled to at least <strong data-start=\"1020\" data-end=\"1093\">one full rest day (24 continuous hours) in every period of seven days<\/strong>. This rest day gives helpers time to relax, recharge, and take care of personal matters outside work.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1235\" data-end=\"1250\"><strong data-start=\"1235\" data-end=\"1250\">Key points:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"1251\" data-end=\"1589\">\n<li data-start=\"1251\" data-end=\"1312\">\n<p data-start=\"1253\" data-end=\"1312\">A rest day should be completely free from household duties.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1313\" data-end=\"1399\">\n<p data-start=\"1315\" data-end=\"1399\">Employers shouldn\u2019t require helpers to work on their rest day except in emergencies.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1400\" data-end=\"1589\">\n<p data-start=\"1402\" data-end=\"1589\">If a <strong data-start=\"1407\" data-end=\"1428\">statutory holiday<\/strong> falls on a rest day, the helper should still get that holiday off \u2014 and usually the <strong data-start=\"1513\" data-end=\"1542\">following working day off<\/strong> as well.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_are_statutory_holidays_for_domestic_helpers\"><\/span>What are statutory holidays for domestic helpers?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"1657\" data-end=\"1894\">Statutory holidays are <strong data-start=\"1680\" data-end=\"1704\">paid public holidays<\/strong> that domestic helpers are entitled to under Hong Kong law. Helpers can enjoy these holidays regardless of how long they have worked for their employer.<\/p>\n<p>The<strong> 15 statutory holidays for the year 2026<\/strong> are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ol>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>The first day of January &#8211; 01 January 2026, Thursday\u00a0<\/b><\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><strong>Lunar New Year\u2019s Day &#8211; 17 February 2026, Tuesday<\/strong><\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><strong>The second day of Lunar New Year &#8211; 18 February 2026, Wednesday<\/strong><\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><strong>The third day of Lunar New Year &#8211; 19 February 2026, Thursday<\/strong><\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><strong>The day following Ching Ming Festival &#8211; 06 April 2026, Monday<\/strong><\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><strong>The day following Easter Monday &#8211; 07 April 2026, Tuesday<\/strong><\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><strong>Labour Day &#8211; 01 May 2026, Friday<\/strong><\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><strong>The day following the Birthday of the Buddha &#8211; 25 May 2026, Monday<\/strong><\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><strong>Tuen Ng Festival \/ Dragon Boat Festival &#8211; 19 June 2026, Friday<\/strong><\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><strong>Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Establishment Day &#8211; 01 July 2026, Wednesday<\/strong><\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><strong>The day following the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival &#8211; 26 September 2026, Saturday<\/strong><\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><strong>National Day &#8211; 01 October 2026, Thursday<\/strong><\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><strong>The day following Chung Yeung Festival &#8211; 19 October 2026, Monday<\/strong><\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><strong>Christmas Day &#8211; 25 December 2026, Friday<\/strong><\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><strong>The first weekday after Christmas Day &#8211; 26 December 2026, Saturday<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>As Ching Ming Festival, the Birthday of the Buddha, and the Chung Yeung Festival all fall on Sundays in 2026, the following day will be designated as a substitute general holiday. Since the day after Ching Ming coincides with Easter Monday, the next non-holiday weekday will be observed instead.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4 data-start=\"1896\" data-end=\"1915\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_things_to_note\"><\/span><strong>Key things to note:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul data-start=\"1916\" data-end=\"2123\">\n<li data-start=\"1916\" data-end=\"1982\">\n<p data-start=\"1918\" data-end=\"1982\">Statutory holidays are separate from rest days and annual leave.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1983\" data-end=\"2123\">\n<p data-start=\"1985\" data-end=\"2123\">If a statutory holiday falls on a helper\u2019s rest day, they should receive the next available day off.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_%E2%80%9CAnnual_leave%E2%80%9D_for_a_domestic_helper\"><\/span>What is \u201cAnnual leave\u201d for a domestic helper?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"1699\" data-end=\"1963\"><strong data-start=\"1699\" data-end=\"1715\">Annual leave<\/strong> refers to<strong> paid leave<\/strong> earned by a domestic helper <strong>after each 12-month period of continuous employment with the same employer<\/strong>. It\u2019s a right protected by law and must be granted each year once eligibility is met.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"1965\" data-end=\"1968\" \/>\n<h3 data-start=\"1970\" data-end=\"2018\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_many_annual_leave_days_does_a_helper_get\"><\/span>How many annual leave days does a helper get?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"2020\" data-end=\"2146\">Domestic helpers in Hong Kong earn <strong data-start=\"2055\" data-end=\"2076\">paid annual leave<\/strong> that increases with length of service under the Employment Ordinance:<\/p>\n<div class=\"TyagGW_tableContainer\">\n<div class=\"group TyagGW_tableWrapper flex w-fit flex-col-reverse\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<table class=\"w-fit min-w-(--thread-content-width)\" data-start=\"2148\" data-end=\"2730\">\n<thead data-start=\"2148\" data-end=\"2200\">\n<tr data-start=\"2148\" data-end=\"2200\">\n<th data-start=\"2148\" data-end=\"2167\" data-col-size=\"sm\">Years of Service<\/th>\n<th data-start=\"2167\" data-end=\"2200\" data-col-size=\"sm\">Paid Annual Leave Entitlement<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody data-start=\"2254\" data-end=\"2730\">\n<tr data-start=\"2254\" data-end=\"2306\">\n<td data-start=\"2254\" data-end=\"2273\" data-col-size=\"sm\">1st year<\/td>\n<td data-start=\"2273\" data-end=\"2306\" data-col-size=\"sm\">7 days<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-start=\"2307\" data-end=\"2359\">\n<td data-start=\"2307\" data-end=\"2326\" data-col-size=\"sm\">2nd year<\/td>\n<td data-start=\"2326\" data-end=\"2359\" data-col-size=\"sm\">7 days<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-start=\"2360\" data-end=\"2412\">\n<td data-start=\"2360\" data-end=\"2379\" data-col-size=\"sm\">3rd year<\/td>\n<td data-start=\"2379\" data-end=\"2412\" data-col-size=\"sm\">8 days<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-start=\"2413\" data-end=\"2465\">\n<td data-start=\"2413\" data-end=\"2432\" data-col-size=\"sm\">4th year<\/td>\n<td data-start=\"2432\" data-end=\"2465\" data-col-size=\"sm\">9 days<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-start=\"2466\" data-end=\"2518\">\n<td data-start=\"2466\" data-end=\"2485\" data-col-size=\"sm\">5th year<\/td>\n<td data-start=\"2485\" data-end=\"2518\" data-col-size=\"sm\">10 days<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-start=\"2519\" data-end=\"2571\">\n<td data-start=\"2519\" data-end=\"2538\" data-col-size=\"sm\">6th year<\/td>\n<td data-start=\"2538\" data-end=\"2571\" data-col-size=\"sm\">11 days<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-start=\"2572\" data-end=\"2624\">\n<td data-start=\"2572\" data-end=\"2591\" data-col-size=\"sm\">7th year<\/td>\n<td data-start=\"2591\" data-end=\"2624\" data-col-size=\"sm\">12 days<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-start=\"2625\" data-end=\"2677\">\n<td data-start=\"2625\" data-end=\"2644\" data-col-size=\"sm\">8th year<\/td>\n<td data-start=\"2644\" data-end=\"2677\" data-col-size=\"sm\">13 days<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-start=\"2678\" data-end=\"2730\">\n<td data-start=\"2678\" data-end=\"2697\" data-col-size=\"sm\">9+ years<\/td>\n<td data-start=\"2697\" data-end=\"2730\" data-col-size=\"sm\">14 days<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p data-start=\"2732\" data-end=\"2841\">The entitlement increases progressively up to a maximum of <strong data-start=\"2791\" data-end=\"2802\">14 days<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"2843\" data-end=\"2846\" \/>\n<h3 data-start=\"2848\" data-end=\"2897\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_does_the_helper_qualify_for_annual_leave\"><\/span>When does the helper qualify for annual leave?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"2899\" data-end=\"3145\">A domestic helper must complete <strong data-start=\"2931\" data-end=\"2992\">12 months of continuous employment with the same employer<\/strong> before earning annual leave. Before this, the helper is not yet entitled to paid annual leave under the Ordinance.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"3147\" data-end=\"3150\" \/>\n<h3 data-start=\"3152\" data-end=\"3185\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_is_an_annual_leave_arranged\"><\/span>How is an annual leave arranged?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"3187\" data-end=\"3294\">The timing of annual leave should be decided together between the <strong data-start=\"3253\" data-end=\"3280\">employer and the helper<\/strong>. Once agreed:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"3296\" data-end=\"3506\">\n<li data-start=\"3296\" data-end=\"3379\">\n<p data-start=\"3298\" data-end=\"3379\">The employer should provide <strong data-start=\"3326\" data-end=\"3344\">written notice<\/strong> at least <strong data-start=\"3354\" data-end=\"3376\">14 days in advance<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3380\" data-end=\"3506\">\n<p data-start=\"3382\" data-end=\"3506\">Paid annual leave should be taken in one continuous block unless both agree otherwise.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr data-start=\"3508\" data-end=\"3511\" \/>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_annual_leave_be_split_into_parts\"><\/span>Can annual leave be split into parts?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"3555\" data-end=\"3575\"><strong>Yes, but with certain rules:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"3577\" data-end=\"3841\">\n<li data-start=\"3577\" data-end=\"3714\">\n<p data-start=\"3579\" data-end=\"3714\">If the domestic helper is entitled to <strong data-start=\"3608\" data-end=\"3627\">10 days or less<\/strong>, up to <strong data-start=\"3635\" data-end=\"3645\">3 days<\/strong> can be taken separately, and the rest must be taken consecutively.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3715\" data-end=\"3841\">\n<p data-start=\"3717\" data-end=\"3841\">If entitled to <strong data-start=\"3732\" data-end=\"3753\">more than 10 days<\/strong>, at least <strong data-start=\"3764\" data-end=\"3774\">7 days<\/strong> must be taken consecutively by the helper.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"94\" data-end=\"284\">Employers and domestic helpers are encouraged to communicate openly and plan annual leave together, so both sides feel comfortable and respected in the arrangement.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"291\" data-end=\"460\">To avoid any misunderstandings, it\u2019s also a good idea for employers and helpers to keep a simple written record of the agreed annual leave dates, which should be mutually signed.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"3843\" data-end=\"3846\" \/>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_is_annual_leave_paid\"><\/span>How is annual leave paid?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"4037\" data-end=\"4057\">During annual leave:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"4058\" data-end=\"4183\">\n<li data-start=\"4058\" data-end=\"4109\">\n<p data-start=\"4060\" data-end=\"4109\">The helper receives their <strong data-start=\"4086\" data-end=\"4108\">average daily wage<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"4110\" data-end=\"4183\">\n<p data-start=\"4112\" data-end=\"4183\">Food allowance (if part of the contract) should still be paid as usual.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"4185\" data-end=\"4301\">This ensures helpers don\u2019t lose income while taking their rightful time off.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"4303\" data-end=\"4306\" \/>\n<h3 data-start=\"4308\" data-end=\"4380\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_happens_if_the_contract_ends_before_annual_leave_is_taken\"><\/span>What happens if the contract ends before annual leave is taken?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"4382\" data-end=\"4625\">If a domestic helper leaves before completing a full year but has worked <strong data-start=\"5958\" data-end=\"5978\">3 months or more<\/strong>, a helper is entitled to <strong data-start=\"6004\" data-end=\"6033\">pro-rata annual leave pay<\/strong>. Unused annual leave days must be settled in cash at the end of the contract.<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"3848\" data-end=\"3908\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_rest_days_or_statutory_holidays_count_as_annual_leave\"><\/span>Do rest days or statutory holidays count as annual leave?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"3910\" data-end=\"4133\">Yes. If a <strong data-start=\"3920\" data-end=\"3932\">rest day<\/strong> or <strong data-start=\"3936\" data-end=\"3954\">public holiday<\/strong> occurs during annual leave, it <strong data-start=\"3986\" data-end=\"4012\">counts as annual leave<\/strong>, and you should schedule another date to make up for the lost rest day or holiday<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"4135\" data-end=\"4138\" \/>\n<h3 data-start=\"4440\" data-end=\"4493\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_I_still_pay_food_allowance_during_annual_leave\"><\/span>Do I still pay food allowance during annual leave?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"4495\" data-end=\"4691\">Yes. The helper receives their <strong data-start=\"4526\" data-end=\"4548\">average daily wage<\/strong> for the annual leave period <em data-start=\"4577\" data-end=\"4583\">plus<\/em> their regular <strong data-start=\"4598\" data-end=\"4616\">food allowance<\/strong> as part of their normal pay package.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"4693\" data-end=\"4696\" \/>\n<h3 data-start=\"4698\" data-end=\"4739\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_unused_annual_leave_be_cashed_out\"><\/span>Can unused annual leave be cashed out?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"4741\" data-end=\"4822\">A helper can receive <strong data-start=\"4762\" data-end=\"4801\">cash in lieu of unused annual leave<\/strong> in these situations:<\/p>\n<ol data-start=\"4824\" data-end=\"5157\">\n<li data-start=\"4824\" data-end=\"4973\">\n<p data-start=\"4827\" data-end=\"4973\">If entitled to more than 10 days of annual leave, the helper may choose to take at least 10 days off and receive pay in cash for the extra days.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"4974\" data-end=\"5157\">\n<p data-start=\"4977\" data-end=\"5157\">If the contract ends and the helper has worked more than 3 months (and not dismissed summarily), all unused annual leave must be paid in cash.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<hr data-start=\"5159\" data-end=\"5162\" \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_%E2%80%9Chome_leave%E2%80%9D_and_how_is_it_different\"><\/span>What is \u201chome leave\u201d and how is it different?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"4696\" data-end=\"4846\"><strong data-start=\"4696\" data-end=\"4710\">Home leave<\/strong> (also called <em data-start=\"4724\" data-end=\"4740\">vacation leave<\/em>) is separate from annual leave. Under the Standard Employment Contract required by Hong Kong Immigration:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"4847\" data-end=\"5190\">\n<li data-start=\"4847\" data-end=\"5006\">\n<p data-start=\"4849\" data-end=\"5006\">Helpers must be granted <strong data-start=\"4873\" data-end=\"4910\">at least 7 days of vacation leave<\/strong> during the contract to return to their place of origin.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"5007\" data-end=\"5066\">\n<p data-start=\"5009\" data-end=\"5066\">The <strong data-start=\"5013\" data-end=\"5050\">employer covers the flight ticket<\/strong> for home leave.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"5067\" data-end=\"5190\">\n<p data-start=\"5069\" data-end=\"5190\">Whether home leave is paid or unpaid depends on the agreement and contract terms.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"5192\" data-end=\"5363\">Annual leave and home leave can be <strong data-start=\"5227\" data-end=\"5267\">taken together if both parties agree<\/strong>, making it easier for helpers to rest and visit family<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"5606\" data-end=\"5609\" \/>\n<h3 data-start=\"5611\" data-end=\"5659\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_annual_leave_be_combined_with_home_leave\"><\/span>Can annual leave be combined with home leave?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"78\" data-end=\"282\">Yes. Annual leave and home leave can be combined if both the employer and the domestic helper agree. Many helpers choose this option when travelling home, as it allows for a longer, uninterrupted break.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"289\" data-end=\"594\" data-is-last-node=\"\">When combining leave, it\u2019s best to agree on the dates in advance and confirm which days are covered by annual leave and which by home leave. Annual leave and home leave remain separate entitlements, and the employer is still responsible for providing airfare for home leave as required under the contract.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"6153\" data-end=\"6156\" \/>\n<h2 data-start=\"6158\" data-end=\"6203\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_does_this_protect_employers_helpers\"><\/span>How does this protect employers &amp; helpers?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"6205\" data-end=\"6226\">Clear leave policies:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"6228\" data-end=\"6461\">\n<li data-start=\"6228\" data-end=\"6306\">\n<p data-start=\"6230\" data-end=\"6306\">Support <strong data-start=\"6238\" data-end=\"6257\">fair employment<\/strong>, strengthen relationships, and reduce disputes<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"6307\" data-end=\"6372\">\n<p data-start=\"6309\" data-end=\"6372\">Ensure compliance with the <strong data-start=\"6336\" data-end=\"6370\">Hong Kong Employment Ordinance<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"6373\" data-end=\"6461\">\n<p data-start=\"6375\" data-end=\"6461\">Provide helpers with predictable time off for rest, holidays, and family connections<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr data-start=\"6463\" data-end=\"6466\" \/>\n<h2 data-start=\"6468\" data-end=\"6516\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Summary_of_Key_Points\"><\/span>Summary of Key Points<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"6518\" data-end=\"6722\">\u2714 Rest day every 7 days<br data-start=\"6541\" data-end=\"6544\" \/>\u2714 Paid statutory holidays &#8211; 14 days total<br data-start=\"6569\" data-end=\"6572\" \/>\u2714 Paid annual leave increasing up to 14 days<br data-start=\"6616\" data-end=\"6619\" \/>\u2714 Written leave notices is highly recommended<br data-start=\"6642\" data-end=\"6645\" \/>\u2714 Food allowance continues during annual leave<br data-start=\"6691\" data-end=\"6694\" \/>\u2714 Home leave is paid separately<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"6518\" data-end=\"6722\">Clear communication and mutual understanding go a long way in creating a positive employer-helper relationship. By planning leave together and respecting each other\u2019s needs, both employers and domestic helpers can enjoy a smoother, more supportive working arrangement built on trust and respect.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"You_might_also_be_interested_in\"><\/span><strong>You might also be interested in:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/domestic-helper\/rest-day\">Domestic Helper Rest Days<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/domestic-helper\/employment-contract-regulations\">Domestic Helper Employment Contract Regulations<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/info\/en\/direct-hire-packages\">Contract And Visa Renewal Service For Filipino Helpers<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a class=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/domestic-helpers\/hong-kong\">Hire A Domestic Helper In Hong Kong &gt;&gt;<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>(Updated on January 16, 2026) Understanding domestic helper\u2019s leave rights isn\u2019t just good practice \u2014 it\u2019s required by law in Hong Kong. This guide breaks down everything employers and helpers need to know about annual leave entitlements, public holidays, rest days, home leave, and more. What types of leave is a domestic helper entitled to [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":53,"featured_media":12121,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"slim_seo":{"description":"Learn Hong Kong domestic helper leave rules\u2014rest days, statutory holidays for 2026, annual leave and home leave\u2014explained clearly for employers and helpers.","title":"Domestic Helper Annual Leave and Holidays in Hong Kong \u2014 Your Complete FAQ Guide 2026 - HelperChoice Blog"},"footnotes":""},"categories":[184],"tags":[353],"class_list":["post-12119","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-rights-regulation","tag-helpers-holiday-regulations"],"blocksy_meta":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/16d6c715531289cbb8978c11b83376817c731e16-calendar-planner-schedule-domestic-helper-holiday.jpg","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12119","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/53"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=12119"}],"version-history":[{"count":10,"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12119\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":14705,"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12119\/revisions\/14705"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/12121"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=12119"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=12119"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=12119"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}