Why do domestic helpers need to declare criminal records when applying for visas in Hong Kong?

Beginning June 2023, the Hong Kong Immigration Department will require domestic helpers to declare criminal records when applying for work visas to Hong Kong.

The declaration will be done by filling out a new section in the mandatory Immigration form for domestic helpers Visa/Extension of Stay Application Form for Domestic Helper from Abroad (ID988a).

Which domestic helpers will need to declare criminal records?

Domestic helpers applying for the following types of visas will need to declare criminal records:

• First-time helpers processing for a visa with an employer in Hong Kong
• Broken/terminated contract helpers doing overseas processing for change of employer in Hong Kong

Domestic helpers who are applying for the following type of visas will not need to declare criminal records:

• Extension of stay
• Contract renewal with the same employer
• Local processing for change of employer in Hong Kong

How will the declaration of criminal records affect a domestic helper visa application?

Please note that Immigration has not stated whether a visa will be rejected due to the existence of a criminal record. Instead, final approval of the visa is subject to the decision of the Hong Kong Immigration Department. 

During the transition to this new application requirement, the Immigration Department will process applications submitted to them on or before June 18 – regardless of whether a declaration on criminal convictions has been provided in the application.

You can read more about this new requirement here.