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Hong KongterminationFor helpers

When can I terminate for cause without notice?

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

Severe misconduct or breach by either party — for the helper this can include unpaid wages, physical/verbal abuse, unsafe living conditions, or the employer asking the helper to do work outside the contract scope. Document everything; consult the Labour Department or HelperDoc support before acting.

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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How do I terminate the contract?

Either party may terminate the contract by giving not less than one month's written notice or paying one month's wages in lieu of notice (Standard Employment Contract clause 10). Reasons should be documented (e.g. mutual agreement, contract finished, employer relocation). The employer must notify the Immigration Department in writing within 7 days of termination using the online "Notification of Premature Termination of Employment Contracts" service on GovHK. After premature termination, the helper has 14 days to find a new employer or leave Hong Kong (the "two-week rule").

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