The Labour Department today stated that if foreign domestic helpers who are currently in the Philippines and Indonesia had been fully vaccinated in Hong Kong before they left, they can come to work in the city from August 9. 

The Government announced earlier this week that overseas inbound travellers will be subject to new border control measures that are also applicable to helpers coming from the Philippines and Indonesia.

The department explained that if helpers were fully vaccinated in Hong Kong previously, they will be allowed to board flights for Hong Kong under the new measures.

They must comply with the new requirements that include presenting prior to boarding proof of a negative nucleic acid test result for COVID-19 conducted within 72 hours before their scheduled departure time.

They also need to produce confirmation of room reservation at a designated quarantine hotel for not less than 21 nights starting on the day of their arrival.

The department reminds employers and employment agencies to make preparations for their helpers beforehand.

Helpers failing to meet any of the relevant requirements may not be allowed to board a flight for Hong Kong or may be denied entry upon arrival, it added.

As to foreign helpers who do not possess a recognised vaccination record, the Government is discussing with the consulates-general of major helper-sending countries, including the Philippines and Indonesia, ways to verify the authenticity of their vaccination records.

This will allow helpers who were vaccinated in their home countries to come to work in Hong Kong.

The Government also plans to arrange for such helpers to be centrally quarantined in one to two hotels. Details are being discussed and an announcement will be made once arrangements are confirmed.