Hong Kong government tightens scrutiny of foreign domestic workers who break contracts
Hong Kong's Immigration Department has rejected 455 work visa applications from foreign domestic workers suspected of abusing early contract termination to switch employers in the past three years. The government has no plans to require employment agencies to share costs if workers leave early, but
Hong Kong's Immigration Department has stepped up enforcement against foreign domestic workers (FDWs) who abuse early contract termination to switch employers, a practice known locally as 'jumping jobs'. In a written reply to a Legislative Council question published on 11 November, the government said a special task force set up in June 2013 had investigated 3,303 suspected cases in the three years to October 2026. Of these, 455 visa applications were rejected, while 259 were withdrawn by the applicant or could not be followed up.
The government said it does not break down the figures by the worker's nationality, nor does it keep data on how many workers left Hong Kong without notifying their employer, how many terminated contracts early in total, or how many of those who left later reapplied and were approved.
Under Hong Kong's Employment Ordinance and the standard two-year employment contract, either party can end the contract by giving one month's written notice or paying compensation in lieu. The government said it encourages both employers and FDWs to maintain harmonious working relationships.
When reviewing visa applications, immigration officers consider factors including the worker's conduct, records from both sides, and the stated reason for early termination. Officers may contact former employers and the applicant directly to verify the reason. For those suspected of 'jumping jobs', the department said it 'resolutely refuses' the visa application and requires the worker to leave Hong Kong.
On the question of whether the government plans to require employment agencies to share costs if a worker leaves within the first three to six months, the government said it has no such plan. It noted that employers can hire FDWs through agencies or directly, and that service fees and follow-up arrangements are negotiated between agency and employer. To protect consumer rights, the Labour Department in May 2024 revised the Code of Practice for Employment Agencies to require agencies to clearly state whether they offer refunds, replacement workers or other arrangements if a worker leaves early, and whether extra fees apply. Agencies that breach the code can have their licence revoked or be issued a warning.