What happens to my helper's visa after termination?

When a contract ends early, the helper may normally stay in Hong Kong for up to two weeks (14 days) after the termination date, or until the end of her permitted stay, whichever is earlier. This "two-week rule" is a deadline to leave Hong Kong — it is not a window to find a new employer.

What each side must do: • Both employer and helper must notify the Immigration Department of the termination in writing within 7 days, as required by the Standard Employment Contract (ID 407) • The employer settles all outstanding sums — wages up to the last day, payment in lieu of notice where applicable, untaken annual leave, and the return passage obligation • The helper should arrange her departure within the 14 days unless the Immigration Department has approved something else

Can she start with a NEW employer without leaving Hong Kong? Normally no: after a premature termination, the Immigration Department does not normally approve a change of employer in Hong Kong. Exceptions are considered case by case — for example where the original employer cannot continue because of transfer, migration, death or financial reasons, or where there is evidence the helper was abused or exploited. Otherwise she must return to her place of origin and the new employer applies for a new visa from there. See our "change employer mid-contract" Q&A.