Migrant Workers Secretary Hans J. Cacdac has reminded overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Hong Kong to strictly follow local laws and avoid taking on illegal side jobs, warning that violations could lead to arrest, detention, or deportation.
“Filipinos are hardworking, but our diligence should always be in accordance with the law,” Cacdac said. “Moonlighting or accepting side work outside what your visa allows is strictly prohibited and could have serious consequences.”
His appeal comes after six Filipinas, all employed as domestic workers, were arrested in Sham Shui Po for allegedly operating an illegal dental clinic in a subdivided flat. Two of the workers acted as unlicensed dentists, while four others assisted them. Thirteen more Filipino domestic workers were also found in the unit waiting for treatment.
Authorities discovered that the women learned their dental skills from YouTube tutorials, while one claimed to have experience as a dental assistant in the Philippines. The six arrested are currently in detention while awaiting court hearings. According to Cacdac, they will be provided legal counsel and further support by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration.
Cacdac stressed that Hong Kong visas are issued for specific roles, such as domestic work or skilled employment, and workers must adhere strictly to the terms. “If your visa designates you as a domestic worker, then you must follow that. Do not engage in work outside the scope of your visa,” he emphasized.
The Migrant Workers Office in Hong Kong echoed this warning in a separate advisory posted on Facebook: “Do not be enticed by offers of fast and easy money if it risks your legal status. This is not discrimination but a law that applies equally to all foreign nationals.”
The warning comes as Hong Kong immigration officers ramp up their crackdown on illegal work. On Sunday, officials arrested 19 individuals across several locations — including the six Filipinas from Sham Shui Po, eight suspected illegal workers in restaurants, and five restaurant owners or managers allegedly employing them. Authorities said further arrests are possible.
Those convicted of violating Hong Kong’s work regulations face severe penalties: foreign workers may be jailed for up to two months and fined HK$50,000, while overstayers or those under deportation orders risk up to three years in prison and the same fine. Employers of illegal workers could face up to 10 years’ imprisonment and fines reaching HK$500,000, with company owners and directors also held liable.
Cacdac concluded by urging Filipino workers to protect themselves by respecting the law and fulfilling only the jobs permitted by their visas.