Maid Insurance in Singapore: What Every Employer Must Know
- Immersion KAS
- Sep 29, 2025
- 4 min read
Introduction
Hiring a domestic helper in Singapore comes with various responsibilities, and one of the most critical requirements from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) is securing proper maid insurance. This isn't just a bureaucratic checkbox—it's a fundamental protection that safeguards both employers and domestic workers in case of accidents, illnesses, or unforeseen situations that could otherwise result in significant financial burden.
You need to buy medical and personal accident insurance for your migrant domestic worker (MDW), and this coverage must be in place before your helper can begin work in Singapore. Understanding these requirements and choosing the right policy can save you from costly surprises down the road.
Why Is Maid Insurance Mandatory?
The MOM has made maid insurance mandatory for several compelling reasons. The government recognized that domestic workers are vulnerable to workplace injuries and health issues, while employers could face overwhelming medical bills without proper coverage. MOM highlighted that more than 1,000 employers a year struggle with medical bills exceeding the $15,000 coverage limit, which led to significant enhancements in coverage requirements. This includes both fresh and transfer maids, whether experienced or not.
The mandatory insurance ensures that:
Helpers receive proper medical care without delay
Employers are financially protected from large medical bills
Accidents, disabilities, or death are covered by appropriate compensation
There's a safety net for repatriation costs when needed
Types of Maid Insurance Coverage
Current MOM requirements mandate specific minimum coverage levels that all policies must meet:
Medical Coverage: Buy and maintain a medical insurance with a minimum coverage of $60,000 a year for in-patient care and day surgery, and a personal accident coverage of $60,000 a year. This covers hospitalization, surgery, and related medical expenses.
Enhanced Coverage Structure: Annual claim limit of at least $60,000, inclusive of a first-dollar cover of $15,000 means the first $15,000 of medical bills are fully covered. For portion of the bill above $15,000 the employer must co-pay up to 25% (to the hospital), significantly reducing the financial burden compared to previous arrangements.
Personal Accident Coverage: Minimum $60,000 for accidental death or permanent disability, providing crucial financial support for serious incidents.
Additional Coverage: Most policies also include repatriation costs to cover airfare if the helper must return to her home country, and some plans offer third-party liability coverage if the helper accidentally damages property.
Key Changes in 2025
2025 marks Stage 2 of the enhancements where allowable exclusion clauses will be standardized, an introduction of age-differentiated premiums and a new requirement for insurers to reimburse hospitals directly upon the admissibility of the claim.
Age-Differentiated Premiums There are now different premiums for those aged 50 and below; and above 50. Age differentiation keeps premiums affordable as the majority of helpers tend to be younger. This change makes insurance more affordable for younger workers while acknowledging higher risk profiles for older domestic helpers.
Direct Hospital Reimbursement MSIG will reimburse our portion of the hospital bill to hospitals directly upon admissibility of the medical claim, reducing upfront payment burden on employers and streamlining the claims process.
Cost of Maid Insurance in Singapore
The cost of maid insurance varies depending on coverage levels and the helper's age profile:
Standard plans: $250–400 annually (basic MOM-compliant coverage)
Premium plans: $400–600 annually (higher limits, additional coverage like dental, outpatient care, or TCM treatment)
Age factor: Age-differentiated premiums are in 2 age bands: (1) ≤50 years old and (2) >50 years old
Most policies are valid for 2 years, aligning with the standard work permit duration. MOM requires all insurance and bond to have an additional 2 months of cover so that in any event / reason the maid overstays in Singapore after her work permit has expired, she is still covered under the insurance.
Choosing the Right Policy
When selecting maid insurance, consider these essential factors:
MOM Compliance Check Ensure the policy meets all minimum requirements, including the $60,000 annual medical and personal accident coverage limits.
Household-Specific Needs Families with elderly members or those requiring specialized care may benefit from higher coverage limits or additional medical benefits.
Insurance Provider Comparison Major providers in Singapore include NTUC Income, Great Eastern, MSIG, FWD, AIG, and Etiqa. Compare not just prices but also claim processing efficiency and customer service quality.
Renewal Timing Please purchase the insurance at least three working days before your maid arrives in Singapore. This will allow for sufficient time for the processing and transmission of the security bond details to the MOM. Ensure renewal is completed before work permit renewal to avoid complications.
What Happens If You Don't Buy Maid Insurance?
The consequences of failing to secure proper maid insurance are serious and immediate:
Renew Maid's Work permit - applications will be rejected or cancelled
Employers may face fines or penalties from MOM
Your helper will be left unprotected in medical emergencies
You'll be personally liable for all medical costs, which can easily reach tens of thousands of dollars
The financial and legal risks of non-compliance far outweigh the cost of proper insurance coverage.
Conclusion
Maid insurance in Singapore isn't just a legal requirement—it's an essential protection that provides peace of mind for both employers and domestic helpers. With the enhanced coverage requirements now in effect, employers have better financial protection while ensuring their helpers receive proper medical care when needed.
The key is choosing a policy that not only meets MOM requirements but also fits your household's specific needs and budget. With age-differentiated premiums and improved coverage structures, 2025 brings more affordable and comprehensive options than ever before.
Taking the time to understand these requirements and selecting the right coverage protects everyone involved and ensures compliance with Singapore's domestic worker protection framework.
Need help arranging MOM-compliant maid insurance? Professional agencies like Immersion KAS Pte Ltd partner with trusted insurers to make the process hassle-free and ensure you get the right coverage for your needs.
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