Domestic helper, also known as many other names such as foreign domestic worker, or migrant domestic worker, or just house maids in short, are stay in household helpers hired to either be an elderly caregiver, to babysit infant or young children, or to simply do housework and cook for the family. These helpers are usually from our neighboring countries like Indonesia, Philippines or Myanmar, and can be hired from a local maid agency like Homekeeper Maid Agency.
Hiring domestic helpers in Singapore is a common practice, with approximately 269,000 migrant domestic workers (MDWs) employed in 2022. These helpers, often from neighboring countries like Indonesia, Myanmar and the Philippines, play a crucial role in many households, assisting with tasks such as cleaning, cooking, and caregiving. The demand for domestic helpers is driven by Singapore’s fast-paced lifestyle and the need for dual-income families to balance work and home responsibilities.
However, the process of hiring a domestic helper involves navigating various regulations set by the Ministry of Manpower, including work permits, medical examinations, and mandatory rest days. For maids from specific countries, there is also a mandatory letter of undertaking which the maid agency has to apply on behalf of the employer. The process and paperwork can be tedious without the help from a licensed agency, and not only that, employers must be aware of their responsibilities and the rights of their helpers to foster a positive working relationship.
As of 2023, about one in six Singapore households employs a domestic helper, highlighting their significant presence in the community. Understanding these dynamics is essential for anyone considering hiring a domestic helper in Singapore.
Am I eligible to hire a foreign domestic helper?
As of 2024, the criteria to hire a migrant domestic worker is straightforward. There are three specific requirements set by MOM in Singapore, namely to be above 21 years old, not an undischarged bankrupt, and having the mental capacity to understand and adhere to the responsibilities of an employer. For first time employers there is also a mandatory orientation programme to be attended.
So what do I have to pay?
Based on an article from NTUC Income Insurance, the average monthly salary for a domestic helper today ranges from SGD 480 to 850 or higher, depending on their experience and country of origin. However, there might be some with higher salary due to specialty, or mutual agreement or the number of years of experience they honed. This amount is gradually increasing due to better training and improved quality in household maids over the years.
Apart from the monthly salary to your foreign domestic helper and the levy to our Ministry, there is also a list of one-time costs to consider such as maid agencies’ fees, helpers’ flight ticket to Singapore, the 1-day settling-in programme (SIP) course fees, work permit application and related cost, medical checkup and medical insurance costs. All these usually add upwards to between $1,000 – $3,000. It is also important to note that depending on which nationality the maid comes from, there is normally a helper loan of up to 4 to 6 months of their salary to be paid upfront as well.
What are my responsibilities as an employer?
As an employer of a foreign domestic worker, you are fully responsible for the laws around obtaining, and renewing their work permit. This includes application, ensuring mandatory medical checks are done on time, and abiding the laws set by MOM. This includes paying an agreed salary to your helper on time, and granting them one rest day per week. Compensation should be given if you need your maid to work on their rest day.
It is also your utmost responsibility to ensure the well-being of your domestic helper by providing them 3 meals a day, proper accommodation which is sheltered and ventilated with no hazardous items in the surrounding. There should also be adequate personal privacy for your housemaid, with no room sharing of the opposite gender other than young children. It is also important to ensure the safety of your helper while she is doing her duties. In case of any small injuries, medical attention should be rendered, or to bring her to the doctor if necessary. Employers must also provide medical insurance throughout the tenure of the domestic helper.
Apart from the above, as you are welcoming a new foreign person to live in your home, remember to provide support mentally and emotionally to help them settle in quickly and smoothly without problems.
Hiring a helper is common these days, but it is crucial to know what to expect, and to make proper living arrangements before you decide to employ a stay-in housemaid. While MOM may update the domestic employment laws from time to time, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Homekeeper Maid Agency if you have any questions.
About the Author
Linda Seh has over 20 years of experience in the Employment industry. She takes the time to thoroughly interview each family and helper to understand their requirements, personalities, and preferences. Her intuition and insight has helped her make placements that result in lasting, harmonious working relationships. Linda now leverages this expertise and experience to simplify your search and ensure you find the ideal and qualified helper to become a valued member of your family.
