Who pays for the foreign domestic helper's airfare when the contract ends or the helper returns home?
Quick Answer
The employer must pay for the helper's return airfare to their place of origin at the end of every contract — whether it runs to completion, is terminated early, or involves home leave between contracts. Book an actual ticket rather than handing over cash wherever possible.
FDH Termination Settlement Calculator
Calculate exact payments owed: salary, notice pay, severance, airfare, and more.
Open calculator →Overview
Paying for the helper's return passage is one of the employer's core legal duties under the Standard Employment Contract. It applies in several situations throughout the employment relationship — not just at the very end.
When the Employer Must Pay Airfare
| Situation | Employer obligation |
|---|---|
| Contract completed (end of 2-year term) | Return airfare to place of origin |
| Contract terminated early (by employer or helper) | Return airfare to place of origin |
| Contract renewal (home leave) | Return and return airfare for the 7-day vacation |
| Summary dismissal | Return airfare still required |
What "Return Airfare" Means
The Standard Employment Contract specifies:
- An economy-class air ticket (or the equivalent cash value) to the helper's place of origin
- Basic checked luggage allowance is included
- A daily food and traveling allowance (typically HK$100/day) for the journey home
Ticket vs. Cash
The Labour Department recommends employers provide an actual booked air ticket rather than cash. Providing cash leaves open the possibility that the helper does not actually leave and overstays their visa. Booking the ticket directly protects both the employer and the helper.
What If the Helper Finds New Employment?
If the helper is transferred locally to a new employer at the end of a completed contract, the outgoing employer is still generally required to pay for a home leave trip before the new contract begins — unless the ImmD grants a deferral.
Important Notes
- If the helper pays for their own ticket, the employer must reimburse them upon demand with receipts
- Refusing to provide return passage is a breach of contract and an employment offence
- The airfare obligation applies even in cases of summary dismissal — only the notice pay obligation changes
- For a full breakdown of hiring costs, see total costs of hiring an FDH
- For the full termination process and payment obligations, see how to terminate an FDH contract
Related Resources
Last updated: