📋 Updated for 2026
Hong Kong requires all employers to provide adequate medical insurance coverage for domestic helpers. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about fulfilling legal requirements and choosing the best insurance plan for your helper.
Legal Insurance Requirements
Under Hong Kong's Standard Employment Contract for Foreign Domestic Helpers, employers must provide medical and injury insurance. The Immigration Department mandates minimum coverage levels to ensure adequate protection for domestic helpers working in Hong Kong.
Mandatory Coverage Requirements
Medical Insurance
Covers hospitalization, outpatient treatment, emergency dental care, and prescription drugs
Personal Accident
Provides compensation for accidental death, permanent disability, and injury-related medical costs
Repatriation
Covers transportation costs back to home country for emergencies or contract end
Insurance must be valid throughout the entire contract period. The Immigration Department will not approve or renew contracts without proof of adequate insurance coverage. Employers face penalties for non-compliance.
Types of Coverage Explained
Medical Insurance
Covers hospitalization, surgery, outpatient consultations, emergency treatment, diagnostic tests, prescription medications, and specialist care. Minimum HK$100,000 coverage required.
Personal Accident
Provides lump sum compensation for accidental death, permanent total disability, partial disability, or temporary incapacity resulting from covered accidents.
Repatriation Coverage
Covers transportation costs to return the helper to their home country in case of emergency, serious illness, or upon contract termination.
Dental Coverage
Optional coverage for routine dental care, emergency dental treatment, tooth extraction, and dental injuries resulting from accidents.
Insurance Cost Breakdown
Domestic helper insurance costs in Hong Kong vary based on coverage levels, helper's age, nationality, and medical history. Here's what you can expect to pay annually:
Annual Premium Ranges
💰 Cost-Saving Tips
- • Pay annually instead of monthly to save 10-15% on premiums
- • Compare at least 3-5 providers before making a decision
- • Check if your bank offers discounts for existing customers
- • Consider slightly higher deductibles for lower premiums
- • Bundle with other insurance policies for multi-policy discounts
Top 5 Insurance Providers in Hong Kong
AIA Hong Kong
HSBC Insurance
Zurich Insurance
Blue Cross
AXA Hong Kong
How to Apply for Coverage
Collect Helper Information
Passport details, date of birth, nationality, arrival date, and medical history.
Compare Insurance Plans
Use our comparison tool to evaluate coverage, costs, and benefits across providers.
Submit Application Online
Complete the application form with helper's details and select coverage level.
Make Payment
Pay via credit card, direct debit, or bank transfer (annual payment recommended).
Receive Policy Documents
Download insurance certificate immediately or receive via email within 24-48 hours.
Submit to Immigration Department
Include insurance certificate with employment contract application or renewal.
Common Questions
When must I purchase insurance?
Insurance must be in place before submitting your helper's contract to the Immigration Department. It's best to purchase insurance immediately after signing the employment contract.
Can I switch insurance providers?
Yes, you can switch providers at contract renewal time. Ensure there's no coverage gap between policies. Some insurers offer pro-rated refunds if you switch mid-term.
What if my helper has pre-existing conditions?
Most policies exclude pre-existing conditions or require waiting periods. Disclose all conditions upfront to avoid claim rejection. Some insurers offer specialized coverage for specific conditions.
How do I file an insurance claim?
Contact your insurer's hotline immediately for medical emergencies. For non-emergencies, collect all receipts and medical reports, then submit claim form within 30 days of treatment.
Ready to Find the Best Coverage?
Compare domestic helper insurance plans from Hong Kong's leading providers and ensure you're fully compliant with Immigration Department requirements while protecting your helper.