The minimum allowable wage for foreign domestic helpers in Hong Kong was recently increased from HK$4,410 (Php29,000) to HK$4,520 (Php30,300). But if you are looking for a better paying job, it might be a good idea to undergo training as caregiver.
The advice comes from the Hong Kong branch manager of Active Global Specialized Caregivers, Steven Chiu, who revealed that caregivers earn HK$7,000 (Php47,000) a month.
Considering that there are a number of domestic helpers in Hong Kong and even in other places who are taking up the role of caregiver for elderly employers, upgrading their skill could mean better pay.
“This is a very welcome opportunity for you because, as you know, the Hong Kong government may soon, in fact they have already announced it last year, accept caregivers to Hong Kong,” revealed Labor Attache Jalilo Dela Torre during the graduation ceremony for caregivers at the Bayanihan Centre in Kennedy Town last December 2.
Dela Torre refers to the statement of Labor and Welfare Secretary Law Chi-kwong who announced in November 2017 that Hong Kong would be needing around 600,000 domestic helpers in the next 30 years, due to the city’s aging population.
“Take care of the old people of Hong Kong. Your salaries will be much higher than domestic helpers. All over the world, societies are ageing so your services will be very much in demand. It’s very timely for you and I congratulate you,” Dela Torre added.
Right now, there are already 200 Filipinos working in Hong Kong as caregivers; however, their work visas are still categorized as domestic helpers. But instead of doing housework, they are focused more on caring for elderly or sick employers.
The job does entail special skills, especially for those who are not nursing students. For specialization and to best do the job, workers are advised to acquire a National Certificate II (NC II) for caregiving from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).
According to Chiu, caregivers could earn more because employers are willing to pay as high as HK$8,000 monthly salary if the workers have longer years of experience, additional skills, and know how to speak Cantonese or Mandarin.
Image credit: Hong Kong News
