Gov’t to review rules governing foreign domestic workers

[Photo: Melssandre Denize]

The government will continue reviewing regulations governing foreign domestic workers and gather public feedback to improve oversight of the sector, the Labour Affairs Bureau (DSAL) said in response to a lawmaker’s inquiry.

Lawmaker Chan Lai Kei urged authorities to consider amending the law regulating the employment of nonresident workers. DSAL said current legislation already requires employers to cover transportation costs for foreign workers returning to their place of origin after their employment ends, regardless of the reason for termination, ensuring they are not stranded in Macau due to financial hardship.

The bureau also rejected a proposal to establish a digital platform containing background information on foreign domestic workers, saying it would involve handling sensitive personal data, including employment records and reasons for changing or leaving jobs. It added that employment terminations can occur for many reasons, making government-led background checks inappropriate.

Meanwhile, DSAL said it continues to monitor online platforms and social media for illegal recruitment activities. Authorities will investigate individuals or agencies found operating employment placement services without a valid license and impose penalties in accordance with the law if violations are confirmed.

Online renewal service for worker approvals

The DSAL launched a new online service that allows employers to renew authorizations to hire nonresident skilled and unskilled workers electronically.

Available through the Business & Associations Platform website and mobile app, the service is designed to streamline the application process, shorten processing times, and improve access to public services. Employers can submit renewal applications, sign documents electronically, track the status of their requests, and receive results entirely online, DSAL announced.