Empowering Domestic Helpers: Securing Visa Extensions for a Brighter Future.
You can use this online service if you are a foreign domestic helper who wants to apply for an extension of Visa for domestic helper.
Overview of Extension of Visa For Domestic Helper
Here is a brief overview on extension of visa for domestic helper:
Domestic helpers play a critical role in many households, providing essential services that enable families to thrive. However, visa restrictions can limit the ability of domestic helpers to remain in their host countries and continue working. Fortunately, there are steps that employers can take to secure visa extensions for their domestic helpers and provide them with a brighter future.
The first step in extending a domestic helper’s visa is to review the requirements and regulations of the host country. Some countries have strict eligibility criteria for visa extensions, such as requiring the helper to have worked for the same employer for a certain period of time or to have a valid employment contract. Employers should ensure that they meet all the necessary criteria before applying for an extension.
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Another key factor in securing a visa extension is maintaining a positive relationship with the domestic helper. Employers should treat their helpers with respect and dignity, provide fair compensation, and ensure that their living and working conditions are safe and comfortable. By fostering a positive work environment, employers can demonstrate to immigration authorities that they are committed to the well-being of their helpers and that they are deserving of a visa extension.
Employers can also seek the assistance of immigration lawyers or agencies to navigate the visa extension process. These professionals can provide guidance on the necessary documentation and procedures and can help employers make a strong case for a visa extension.
Finally, it’s essential to plan ahead and apply for a visa extension well before the current visa expires. Immigration authorities can take several weeks or even months to process a visa extension application, so employers should ensure that they leave plenty of time for the process.
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In conclusion, extension of visas for domestic helper is an important step in empowering these essential workers and providing them with a brighter future. By meeting eligibility criteria, maintaining positive relationships, seeking professional assistance, and planning ahead, employers can help secure visa extensions and demonstrate their commitment to the well-being of their helpers.
Extension of Visa For Domestic Helper Application Tips
Before using the online visa application service for extension of visa for domestic helper, please save the supporting documents required as files in the following format: JPEG, PDF, GIF, PNG, or TIF for a faster application process.
Let’s now get to the extension of visa for domestic helper application tips properly.
Who can Apply for an Extension of Visa for Domestic Domestic Helper?
Typically, the employer of a domestic helper would apply for an extension of the helper’s visa, as they are the ones who have hired the helper and are responsible for their employment and immigration status. However, in some cases, the domestic helper themselves may be required to provide certain documentation or information to support the visa extension application.
The eligibility criteria and application process for a visa extension can vary depending on the host country’s regulations, so it’s essential to review the requirements and seek professional assistance if needed.
Eligibility Criteria for Extension of Visa for domestic Helper
The eligibility criteria for extension of visa for domestic helper can vary depending on the host country’s regulations. However, in general, domestic helpers must meet the following criteria:
- Have a valid passport
- Hold a current and valid visa
- Have been employed by the same employer for a certain period of time (e.g. six months)
- Have a valid employment contract
- Meet any health and character requirements set by the host country
- Have not breached any immigration laws in the host country
- Meet any other eligibility requirements set by the host country’s immigration authorities.
It’s important to note that eligibility criteria can vary depending on the host country’s regulations, so it’s essential to review the specific requirements before applying for a visa extension for a domestic helper.
Who can Use this Service – Extension of Visa for Domestic Helper
If you are a foreign domestic helper, you can use this online service to apply for an extension of stay with the same employer for contract renewal or completion of the remaining period of the current contract.
However, you will not be able to use the service if you: As shown in the table below:
| 1. | you are not physically present in Hong Kong at the time of submission; |
| 2. | you will not be physically present in Hong Kong at the time of collection of your extension of stay label; |
| 3. | you intend to collect the approved extension of stay label at the Immigration Branch Offices; |
| 4. | you are on visitor status; |
| 5. | you intend to submit a contract renewal application and your remaining limit of stay is more than 8 weeks; |
| 6. | your limit of stay has expired; |
| 7. | your travel document will expire in 3 months; |
| 8. | you need to depart Hong Kong and will not return before the expiry of your limit of stay; |
| 9. | your circumstances have changed since entry or last extension of stay (for example change of employer); |
| 10. | you have been notified that your next extension of stay will be subject to review; or |
| 11. | You apply for an extension of the current contract for one month under mutual agreement. |
Documents to be Submitted Online for the Extension of Visa for Domestic Helper
The documents you need to submit with your online application will depend on the type of application you are applying for. However, those documents marked with * are mandatory, take note!
The table below shows the Documents to be Submitted Online for Contract Renewal of Extension of Visa for Domestic Hepler:
| Documents | Maximum no. of files for upload |
| 1. *Form ID988A – Visa/Extension of Stay Application Form for Domestic Helper from Abroad (first 4 pages only) | 4 |
| 2 *Form ID988B – Application for Employment of Domestic Helper from Abroad (first 3 pages only) | 3 |
| 3 *Form ID407 – Employment Contract for a Domestic Helper Recruited from Outside Hong Kong (New) | 4 |
| 4 Form ID934A – Application for Special Permission for Performance of Motor Driving Duties by Foreign Domestic Helpers (first 2 pages only) | 2 |
| 5 *Copy of the helper’s travel document including the pages showing his/her personal particulars, photo, passport validity, latest visa label, and the latest landing endorsement/landing slip | 3 |
| 6 Copy of the valid registration license of the vehicle (if motor driving duties are required) | 2 |
| 7 Copy of the valid Hong Kong driving license of the helper (if motor driving duties are required) | 1 |
| 8 Other supporting documents {for example proof of employer’s financial position and residential address (if there is a change in the information since the last employment contract)} | 8 |
| 9 *Undertaking of Employer (New requirement for FDH visa application during the epidemic situation) | 2 |
The table below shows the Documents to be Submitted Online for/to Complete the Remainder Period of the Current Contract:
| Documents | Maximum no. of files for upload |
| 1 *Form ID988A – Visa/Extension of Stay Application Form for Domestic Helper from Abroad (first 4 pages only) | 4 |
| 2 *Copy of the helper’s travel document including the pages showing his/her personal particulars, photo, passport validity, latest visa label, and the latest landing endorsement/landing slip | 3 |
| 3 *Employer’s supporting letter to confirm continuous employment | 2 |
| 4 Other supporting documents [for example proof of employer’s financial position and residential address (if there is a change in the information since the last employment contract)] | 8 |
| 5 *Undertaking of Employer (New requirement for FDH visa application during the epidemic situation) (click here for Details) | 2 |
How to Apply For the Extension of Visa for Domestic Helper
Once you have properly prepared your application forms and supplementary documents as required, you can access the online service through the link below.
Once it opens, you will then need to enter the following information:
- the application reference number of your latest visa, entry permit, or extension of stay application;
- your date of birth;
- your current limit of stay; and
- the expiry date of your travel documents
Important Note: Ensure that the information you provide is correct as incorrect information may render your submission invalid.
Frequently Asked Questions About Extension of Visa for Domestic Helper
Here are some frequently asked questions about extending visas for domestic helpers:
Who can apply for an extension of visa for domestic helper?
Typically, the employer of the domestic helper would apply for the visa extension on their behalf, as they are responsible for their employment and immigration status. However, the domestic helper may also need to provide certain documentation or information to support the application.
What are the eligibility criteria for an extension of visa for domestic helper?
The eligibility criteria for a visa extension can vary depending on the host country’s regulations. Common requirements include having a valid employment contract, working for the same employer for a certain period of time, and demonstrating financial means to support the helper’s continued stay.
How far in advance should I apply for an extension of visa for domestic helper?
It’s essential to plan ahead and apply for a visa extension well before the current visa expires, as the process can take several weeks or even months to complete. Employers should ensure that they leave plenty of time for the application process.
Can I seek professional assistance to apply for a visa extension for a domestic helper?
Yes, employers can seek the assistance of immigration lawyers or agencies to navigate the visa extension process. These professionals can provide guidance on the necessary documentation and procedures and can help employers make a strong case for a visa extension.
What happens if a visa extension is not approved for a domestic helper?
If a visa extension is not approved, the domestic helper may be required to leave the host country once their current visa expires. Employers should plan ahead and ensure that they have contingency plans in place in case a visa extension is not granted.
How long does the visa extension process take for a domestic helper?
The length of time it takes to process a visa extension for a domestic helper can vary depending on the host country’s regulations and the complexity of the application. In general, it’s best to apply well in advance of the current visa’s expiry date to allow for processing times.
Can a domestic helper continue working while their visa extension is being processed?
In some cases, domestic helpers may be able to continue working while their visa extension is being processed, as long as their current visa is still valid. However, the rules surrounding this can vary depending on the host country’s regulations, so it’s important to check the specific requirements.
What happens if a domestic helper’s visa expires before the extension is approved?
If a domestic helper’s visa expires before the extension is approved, they may need to leave the host country temporarily until their new visa is approved. Employers should plan ahead and ensure that their domestic helper has somewhere to stay during this time.
Can a domestic helper change employers while their visa is being extended?
The rules surrounding changing employers while a domestic helper’s visa is being extended can vary depending on the host country’s regulations. In some cases, it may be possible to change employers, but the process can be complex and may require additional documentation.
How much does it cost to apply for a visa extension for a domestic helper?
The cost of applying for a visa extension for a domestic helper can vary depending on the host country’s regulations and the complexity of the application. Employers should be prepared to pay fees for the visa extension application and any required documentation, as well as any professional fees if they choose to seek assistance from an immigration lawyer or agency.
Can a domestic helper travel outside the host country while their visa extension is being processed?
The rules surrounding a domestic helper’s ability to travel outside the host country while their visa extension is being processed can vary depending on the host country’s regulations. It’s important to check the specific requirements to avoid any issues with re-entering the host country.
What happens if a domestic helper’s employment is terminated while their visa is being extended?
If a domestic helper’s employment is terminated while their visa is being extended, their visa extension may be impacted. Employers should consult with immigration lawyers or agencies to understand the impact of terminating a domestic helper’s employment during the visa extension process.
What are the consequences of overstaying a domestic helper’s visa?
Overstaying a domestic helper’s visa can have serious consequences, including fines, deportation, and difficulty obtaining visas in the future. It’s essential to ensure that domestic helpers have valid visas at all times and that the visa extension process is started well before the current visa expires.
How often can a domestic helper’s visa be extended?
The rules surrounding how often a domestic helper’s visa can be extended can vary depending on the host country’s regulations. It’s essential to review the specific requirements to understand how long a domestic helper can stay in the host country.
Can a domestic helper apply for permanent residency or citizenship while their visa is being extended?
The rules surrounding a domestic helper’s ability to apply for permanent residency or citizenship can vary depending on the host country’s regulations. It’s important to check the specific requirements to understand if this is a possibility for the domestic helper.
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