18th August 2025 – (Hong Kong) The Immigration Department (ImmD) apprehended six Filipino domestic helpers in Sham Shui Po for allegedly practising unlicensed dentistry at a tenement block. Aged between 34 to 60, the individuals were caught offering dental services, including teeth scaling, orthodontic treatments, and denture production, to fellow Filipinos on weekends, charging approximately HK$150 to HK$500 per session. Among them, two had self-taught as unlicensed dentists through online resources, while the other four acted as assistants.
Following a report, ImmD officers conducted an operation and seized dental tools in a raid on a residential apartment where the illegal dental services were provided. Two individuals were found operating as unlicensed dentists while the remaining four were assisting. The suspects are detained for investigation, accused of breaching stay conditions and practising dentistry without proper registration.
Tai Koon Ho, Chief Immigration Officer (Special Investigation on Foreign Domestic Helpers), stated that the individuals lacked formal dental training and professional qualifications. Thirteen individuals, believed to be customers, were present during the arrests. ImmD officers warned against the health risks posed by unlicensed dental services and advised employers and helpers to avoid such practices.
The investigation continues, with the case referred to the authorities to address potential breaches of the Dentists Registration Ordinance. ImmD reiterated that foreign domestic helpers are restricted to household duties and cannot engage in other jobs, including part-time work. Violating these conditions constitutes a criminal offense, with penalties up to a HK$50,000 fine and two years’ imprisonment upon conviction.
The arrests are part of a series of anti-illegal worker operations by ImmD. Last week, they conducted searches at over 130 locations, resulting in the apprehension of thirty individuals, including employers and illegal workers. ImmD vows to intensify efforts against illegal employment practices and closely monitor trends for enforcement actions.