I think you can start processing the new contract one month before the old contract is up. It is actually very easy. Just got to the Immigration Department and pick up a set of application forms. It has pretty detailed instructions on it. First sign the contract (green sheets - 4 copies of it) and then your helper has to take it to the consulate (Filipino) to get it notarized. This takes one week. You should also check the hours at the consulate cause I think they are open on Sundays but closed on a weird day. Once you have the contract, then your helper can bring it to the HK Immigration Building along with the other paperwork to get the visa. I believe for a renewal, you can get the new visa the day of (Or at least really quickly). Your helper has the option to either exit the country and then come back again with the new visa immediately after the old visa expires or you can put this off. She just needs to have it done within one year. Sorry, I'm a little vague on some details but it is very easy.
