Domestic Helper Rest Days, Holidays & Annual Leave Explained
Plain-language guide to rest days, statutory holidays and paid annual leave for foreign domestic helpers in Hong Kong.
Rest days
A domestic helper is entitled to at least one rest day in every period of 7 days. A rest day is a continuous period of not less than 24 hours.
Statutory holidays
Helpers enjoy the statutory holidays under the Employment Ordinance. If a statutory holiday falls on a rest day, a substitute holiday should be given.
Paid annual leave
After every 12 months of service, paid annual leave starts at 7 days and increases with years of service up to 14 days.
Need exact dates?
Use our holiday lookup tool to see which holidays may apply based on the start month. For individual cases, refer to the Labour Department.
FAQ
How many rest days does a helper get?+
At least one rest day in every 7-day period, lasting not less than 24 continuous hours.
What if a statutory holiday falls on a rest day?+
The employer should grant a substitute holiday.
How much annual leave does a helper get?+
After every 12 months of service, 7 days of paid annual leave, rising with years of service to a maximum of 14 days.
For general reference only, not legal advice. Please refer to the Labour Department and Immigration Department for the latest rules.