Finding a good helper isn't the problem
Finding a trustworthy agency is

• Copy of applicant's (and guarantor's) HKID card.
• Proof of income: latest tax return, 3 months' salary slips, or 3 months' bank statements.
• Proof of address (original + copy, within 3 months): rates notice, water/electricity/gas/landline bill. Immigration Dept generally does not accept bank statements or mobile phone bills.
• If living in a public housing estate, apply for a temporary residence permit for the helper from the Housing Department (approximately 5–7 working days).
• If documents are not in the applicant's name, additional proof of relationship is required (e.g., tenancy agreement, marriage certificate, or birth certificate).
• If the helper does not have her own room, provide a floor plan and photos of the sleeping area (with visible unit number), plus a written explanation of all sleeping arrangements.
• Provide names, HKID numbers, and dates of birth for all family members. If currently employing a helper, provide that helper's name, HKID number, contract termination date, or visa expiry date.

• Since many helpers come from tropical regions, they may lack warm clothing and basic daily necessities. Some consulates require employers to provide winter clothing and essential supplies.
• Employers must provide free meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). If meals are not provided, a monthly food allowance of no less than HK$1,236 must be paid.
• Employers must provide free accommodation. The accommodation address must match the contract address.
• The helper's work is restricted to domestic duties at the contract address — any other arrangement is illegal.

• Either party can terminate the contract by giving 1 month's written notice or paying 1 month's salary in lieu of notice.
• Regardless of who initiates termination, the employer must pay all outstanding wages and holiday compensation.
• Under Clause 12 of the Standard Employment Contract (Form ID407), both parties must notify the Director of Immigration in writing within 7 days of the contract termination date.

• Employers must grant the helper at least 4 rest days per month, with at least one rest day every 7 days.
• Rest days are not required to fall on Sundays.

After working continuously for 3 months, helpers are entitled to 15 statutory holidays:

• New Year's Day (1 January)
• Lunar New Year's Day 1
• Lunar New Year's Day 2
• Lunar New Year's Day 3
• Ching Ming Festival
• Easter Monday
• Labour Day (1 May)
• Tuen Ng Festival (Dragon Boat Festival)
• HKSAR Establishment Day (1 July)
• Day after Mid-Autumn Festival
• National Day (1 October)
• Chung Yeung Festival
• Winter Solstice OR Christmas Day (employer's choice)
• First weekday after Christmas Day

After completing 1 year of service, helpers are entitled to paid annual leave:

• Helpers with 5 or more years of service are entitled to 100% Long Service Payment, regardless of age.
• Calculation formula: Monthly salary as stated in the contract × 2/3 × Years of service.