Introduction
Singapore is one of the world's most active markets for domestic helpers, with around 250,000 Foreign Domestic Workers (FDWs) employed across the city-state. For many working families, a domestic helper is not a luxury — it's essential infrastructure for managing a household while both parents work.
But the Singapore hiring system has specific rules: MOM work permits, security bonds, mandatory medical examinations, the Settling-In Programme, and a detailed framework of employer obligations. Get these wrong and you face permit rejections, fines, and a rocky working relationship. Get them right and you'll have a helper who becomes a trusted, long-term member of your household.
This guide walks you through everything — from deciding what you need, to finding candidates, to completing the paperwork, to understanding your ongoing obligations as a Singapore employer in 2026.
Table of Contents
- What Kind of Help Do You Need?
- How to Find a Helper: Agency, Direct, or Transfer?
- Salary Benchmarks in Singapore
- The Work Permit Process: Step by Step
- Mandatory Insurance & Security Bond
- Medical Examination Requirements
- Your Ongoing Obligations as an Employer
- Total Cost of Hiring a Helper in Singapore
What Kind of Help Do You Need?
Before searching, be specific about what your household actually requires. This shapes everything — which nationalities to consider, what salary to budget, and what to look for in the interview.
Common domestic helper roles in Singapore:
- General housekeeping: cleaning, laundry, ironing, marketing (groceries)
- Cooking: daily meals, meal prep, dietary needs
- Childcare: school runs, homework support, activities
- Newborn/infant care: overnight, feeding, bathing
- Elderly care: personal care, medication reminders, companionship
- Combined: housekeeping + one of the above (most common)
Also clarify:
- Will the helper live in or commute? (Live-in is standard in Singapore)
- Do you need a driver? (Rare — requires valid Singapore licence)
- Any specific language requirements? (English, Mandarin, Bahasa, Tagalog)
- Any allergy or dietary considerations?
The clearer you are at this stage, the faster your search will go and the better your match.
How to Find a Helper: Agency, Direct, or Transfer?
Option 1: Licensed Maid Agency
The most popular route for first-time employers. Agencies shortlist candidates, arrange interviews, manage paperwork, and book medical check-ups. They typically charge SGD 1,000–3,000 in placement fees.
What to check before using an agency:
- Is it licensed by MOM? (Check the MOM directory)
- Does it have a high retention rate (helpers who stay long-term)?
- Are its fees transparent with no hidden charges?
- Does it ensure zero placement fees charged to the helper?
Unethical agencies that charge helpers excessive placement fees create debt bondage — avoid them. Look for agencies that explicitly follow the MOM Fair Employment Framework.
Option 2: Direct Hiring (Online Platform)
You find the candidate yourself via an online platform, then apply for the work permit directly through the MOM website. This saves agency fees and gives you more control over selection.
Platforms like HelperEx let you filter by nationality, skills, experience, and availability — and contact candidates directly before committing to anything. For transfer helpers (already in Singapore), the process is especially smooth.
Option 3: Transfer Helper
A transfer maid is already in Singapore — either finishing a contract or looking for a new placement. Benefits:
- Can start within days rather than 4–8 weeks
- Already familiar with Singapore household routines and expectations
- No need to arrange overseas flights
- Work permit transfer is simpler and faster than new application
Transfer helpers are increasingly the preferred option for employers who need help quickly. You can apply for the transfer directly through the MOM FDW eService system without an agency.
Salary Benchmarks in Singapore
According to the 2025 salary survey data, here are realistic monthly salary expectations for domestic helpers in Singapore:
| Helper Type | Average Monthly Salary (SGD) |
|---|---|
| First-time maid (no Singapore experience) | ~SGD 680 |
| Experienced maid (with SG experience) | ~SGD 880 |
| Specialised caregiver / childcare professional | SGD 900–1,100+ |
By nationality:
- Filipino: Generally higher — SGD 700–1,000+ — due to English proficiency, formal training, and strong childcare experience
- Indonesian: SGD 600–900 — excellent all-round helpers, growing availability from SATS/MOM-approved channels
- Myanmar: SGD 600–800 — more affordable, increasingly available in Singapore
- Sri Lankan, Indian: Variable, typically SGD 650–900
What pushes salary higher:
- Prior Singapore experience (families trust known quantities)
- Specialised skills: newborn care, elderly care with medical needs, formal first aid certification
- English fluency (for childcare, tutoring, or communication-heavy households)
- Multiple years of consecutive service with good references
Salary is not the only cost. You also pay the FDW levy, medical insurance, and other employer obligations — see the Total Cost section below.
The Work Permit Process: Step by Step
Every Foreign Domestic Worker in Singapore requires a Work Permit issued by MOM. Here is the process:
For Overseas Recruitment (New to Singapore)
- Select your candidate (through agency or platform)
- Apply for In-Principle Approval (IPA) on the MOM FDW eService — this is the initial work permit approval
- Candidate travels to Singapore on the IPA
- Pre-Employment Medical Examination (PME) — mandatory within the first few days in Singapore (see Medical Examinations section)
- Settling-In Programme (SIP) — mandatory for first-time FDWs; a 1-day orientation conducted by MOM-appointed providers covering rights, rules, and adjustment. Cost: ~SGD 75–100
- Security bond — must be in place before the helper starts work
- Work Permit card issued — helper can officially begin employment
For Transfer Helpers (Already in Singapore)
- Both parties agree to the transfer; current employer provides consent
- Apply for work permit transfer via MOM FDW eService
- Previous work permit is cancelled; new permit issued
- Medical exam may or may not be required depending on recency
- Helper can start — usually within 1–3 working days of approval
Eligibility requirements for FDWs in Singapore:
- Must be between 23–50 years old (first-time FDWs); up to 60 for renewals
- Must be from an approved source country (Philippines, Indonesia, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, India, Bangladesh, Thailand, Cambodia, and others)
- Must not be pregnant
- Must not be related to the employer
Mandatory Insurance & Security Bond
Maid Insurance (Mandatory)
MOM requires all FDW employers to purchase maid insurance that meets minimum standards:
| Coverage | Minimum Required |
|---|---|
| Personal Accident | SGD 60,000 |
| Hospitalisation & Surgery | SGD 15,000 |
Beyond the minimum, look for policies that also cover:
- Outpatient medical expenses (not mandatory, but very useful)
- Third-party liability (if helper accidentally injures someone or damages property)
- Wage compensation during hospitalisation
- Repatriation expenses if needed
- Replacement helper costs in case of death or permanent disability
- Theft or accidental damage coverage
Shop around — don't just accept the policy your agency recommends. Independent policies bought directly from insurers are often cheaper for the same coverage.
Security Bond (Mandatory)
You must purchase a security bond before your helper begins work:
| Nationality | Security Bond Amount |
|---|---|
| Non-Filipino FDWs | SGD 5,000 |
| Filipino FDWs | SGD 7,000 (Philippines government requirement) |
The bond is a form of financial guarantee that you will comply with your employer obligations. It is almost always purchased through an insurance company (which covers the bond in case of forfeiture), not paid in cash to MOM.
Process: Apply through a bank or insurer → insurer notifies MOM → bond is active → helper can begin work.
Medical Examination Requirements
Singapore has a two-tier mandatory medical examination system for all FDWs:
1. Pre-Employment Medical Examination (PME)
Required before the work permit can be fully activated. Must be conducted by a MOM-accredited doctor or clinic. Tests typically include:
- Infectious diseases (tuberculosis, HIV, syphilis, etc.)
- Pregnancy test
- General physical fitness
The PME result must be submitted to MOM within 2 weeks. A failed PME means the helper cannot be legally employed.
2. Six-Monthly Medical Examination (6ME)
Every 6 months throughout the employment contract, your helper must undergo a repeat medical examination. This is also mandatory — failure to ensure the 6ME is completed can result in the work permit being cancelled.
Finding a clinic: MOM maintains a list of approved clinics for both PME and 6ME. Search the MOM website for "FDW medical checkup" to find an accredited clinic near you.
The cost is typically borne by the employer, though this can be discussed when agreeing the employment terms.
Your Ongoing Obligations as an Employer
Once your helper is working, you have a range of legal obligations under MOM's FDW framework:
Salary
- Pay on time every month
- Keep a written record of salary paid
- Do not make unauthorised deductions
Rest Days
- 1 rest day per week — the day is agreed mutually with the helper
- If she agrees to work on a rest day, you must pay at least 1 day's extra salary (calculated as monthly salary ÷ 26)
- At least 1 rest day per month cannot be compensated away — even if your helper is willing to work every day, she must have at least one actual day off per month
Public Holidays
- Not automatically covered by the Employment Act for FDWs — the arrangement must be stated clearly in the employment contract
- Common approaches: give paid public holidays off, or treat them as normal working days with or without extra pay — just be explicit and consistent
Accommodation
- Must provide suitable, private accommodation — a shared room with the family is not acceptable in most circumstances
- The helper's accommodation must be safe, clean, and have adequate ventilation
Medical Care
- Employer is responsible for the cost of the helper's medical treatment (within the insurance coverage and beyond if needed)
- Cannot ask the helper to pay for her own work-related medical needs
Passport
- You cannot retain or confiscate the helper's passport. It belongs to her.
Settling-In Programme (SIP)
- First-time FDWs must complete SIP within 3 days of arriving in Singapore. As employer, you are responsible for ensuring this happens.
Total Cost of Hiring a Helper in Singapore
Many employers focus only on the monthly salary but the true cost is higher. Here's a realistic estimate for hiring an experienced helper in 2026:
| Item | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Monthly salary (SGD 800 × 12) | SGD 9,600 |
| FDW Levy | SGD 720–5,400/year |
| Maid insurance | SGD 200–600/year |
| Security bond (amortised over 2 years) | SGD 250–350/year |
| Medical exams (PME + 6ME × 2) | SGD 150–300/year |
| Settling-In Programme (one-off, first hire) | SGD 75–100 |
| Agency fee (if applicable, amortised over 2 years) | SGD 500–1,500/year |
| Estimated total annual cost | SGD 11,500–17,850 |
FDW Levy note: The levy ranges from SGD 60/month (concessionary rate for families with young children, elderly, or persons with disabilities) to SGD 450/month (standard rate for subsequent helpers). Check your eligibility for the concessionary rate on the MOM website — it can save SGD 4,680/year.
Conclusion
Hiring a domestic helper in Singapore is a well-regulated process — and that's a good thing. The rules are there to protect both you and your helper. Work within the framework, understand your obligations, and you'll build a working relationship that can last years.
The key steps in order: define your needs → find candidates via agency, platform, or transfer → complete the work permit and SIP → arrange insurance and security bond → ensure ongoing compliance with rest days, salary, and medical exam requirements.
Start your search today on HelperEx — browse verified profiles of experienced domestic helpers in Singapore, filter by nationality, skills, and availability, and connect directly with candidates who match your household.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to hire a helper in Singapore? For overseas recruitment, typically 4–8 weeks from application to the helper's first day (including visa processing, medical exam, and SIP). For transfer helpers already in Singapore, it can be as fast as 3–5 working days.
What is the FDW levy and how much is it? The FDW levy is a monthly tax paid by employers for hiring a foreign domestic worker. It ranges from SGD 60/month (concessionary rate) to SGD 450/month (standard rate). The concessionary rate applies to families with children under 16, elderly family members over 67, or persons with disabilities.
Do I have to use a maid agency in Singapore? No. You can hire directly by finding a candidate yourself (via an online platform) and applying for the work permit through the MOM FDW eService. This saves you SGD 1,000–3,000 in agency fees. Agencies are helpful for first-time employers who want guided support.
What happens if the medical exam (PME) fails? The work permit cannot be activated. The helper typically has to return to their home country. Some conditions are treatable and you can reapply after a waiting period; others are permanent disqualifications. Your agency or platform can advise on the specifics.
Can I hire a helper directly from Indonesia without an agency? Yes, for transfer helpers already in Singapore. For overseas recruitment from Indonesia, the process typically involves a licensed agency, as Indonesian recruitment involves additional bilateral requirements. However, for local transfers, you can apply directly through MOM.
Is my helper entitled to annual leave in Singapore? The Employment Act does not automatically cover FDWs the same way as other employees. Annual leave should be agreed and stated in the employment contract. Many employers offer 1–2 weeks of paid annual leave, often used for the helper's home leave trip, but this is contractual rather than statutory.
What if I want to end the contract early? Either party can terminate with notice as specified in the employment contract (typically 1 month, or 1 month's salary in lieu). If you terminate the contract, you are responsible for the helper's repatriation to her home country (if she came from overseas). Always cancel the work permit through MOM eService upon termination.
What is the Settling-In Programme (SIP)? A mandatory 1-day orientation conducted by MOM-approved providers for first-time FDWs. It covers their rights and responsibilities in Singapore, safety, and adjustment information. It must be completed within 3 days of the helper arriving in Singapore. Cost is approximately SGD 75–100, typically paid by the employer.
