Hong Kong’s helpers need support not more restrictions
- Job-hopping staff have raised concerns among Hong Kong employers, and there is a need to balance the rights of both parties, but the city would be better off trying to attract additional workers
A shortage of foreign domestic helpers during the pandemic meant these highly regulated members of the workforce were in high demand and able to secure better salaries from employers keen to recruit them.
This ability to switch jobs for improved terms and conditions is fundamental to any free and fair job market. Helpers cannot be blamed for taking advantage of more tempting offers.
But “job-hopping” helpers have raised concerns among employers. The government will soon introduce a new code for employment agencies intended to curb the practice, seen as an abuse of the right to end a contract prematurely.
The cost of hiring a helper from overseas often includes paying a commission to an agency and covering travel expenses. If the worker quits within a couple of months, the employer is left out of pocket and in need of help.
Official statistics suggest the situation has stabilised with the end of the pandemic. Visa applications from helpers suspected of job-hopping are assessed by a special Immigration Department unit. It received 5,844 referrals in 2021 with 2,833 rejections. Last year, this was down to 1,557 referrals and 502 rejections.
The figures may not tell the full story, with anecdotal evidence suggesting early termination remains prevalent.
The demand for helpers has been raised by an influx of new families under talent schemes and supply hit by their departure for better terms and conditions elsewhere.
The rules about when a helper can quit and take up a new job are already strict. It is only permitted under certain exceptional circumstances, including if they are abused or exploited.
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Groups supporting helpers argue poor working conditions are the biggest cause of early terminations. Switching employers is not easy.
The government should be wary of calls for stronger action to prevent job-hopping, such as tougher legislation or the compilation of a blacklist.
There is a need to balance the interests of employers with the welfare of the helpers, who need more protection and support.
Foreign domestic helpers will be important as Hong Kong seeks an economic rebound. Rather than further restricting these valuable workers, efforts should be made to boost supply by making the city a more competitive and attractive place for them to work.
