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Hong Konggetting startedFor employers

How long does it take to find a helper?

We do our best to keep this updated as the rules change. Please cross-check with the relevant authority for the very latest details.

On HelperDoc, employers typically shortlist 3–5 helpers in their first session and confirm a hire within 1–2 weeks of messaging.

New hires from overseas take 4–8 weeks total: about 6 weeks for the Immigration Department to process the visa (90% of applications complete within this window), plus a week or two for the helper's flight and pre-departure formalities.

Finishing-contract or transfer helpers already in Hong Kong can typically start within 2–3 weeks once the contract is signed and the visa transfer is approved.

Last updated on 3 May 2026.

This answer is plain-language guidance and not legal advice. For complex situations, please contact the relevant authority — the Hong Kong Labour Department, Hong Kong Immigration Department, POEA / DMW (Philippines), MOM (Singapore), Tadbeer (UAE), Musaned (Saudi Arabia), or your legal counsel.
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New here? Start with these 5 questions

Whether you're an employer about to hire your first helper, or a helper preparing to come to Hong Kong, our most-read questions cover the essentials: contract basics, salary expectations, rest days, MPF, and what to do when things go wrong.

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How do I hire through HelperDoc?

Browse approved helper profiles → save your shortlist → message helpers directly → confirm a hire when both sides agree. We then prepare the Standard Employment Contract (ID 407) — the only contract accepted by the Immigration Department — and walk you through the visa paperwork, employer's compulsory insurance, and arrival logistics. Most placements complete in 4–8 weeks: about 6 weeks for new overseas hires (the Immigration Department processes 90% of applications within 6 weeks), and 2–3 weeks for finishing-contract or transfer helpers already in Hong Kong.

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