The Ultimate 2025 Guide to Hiring a Maid in Singapore.

Hiring a maid / domestic helper in Singapore can feel overwhelming—between navigating regulations, comparing agencies, and managing paperwork, the process can seem daunting. But don't stress—we’re here to make it simple. This updated guide covers the essentials you need to know, backed by fresh 2025 updates from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).

Why Hiring a Maid Matters Now More Than Ever

Foreign domestic workers (FDWs) remain a vital pillar in Singaporean households. In 2019, around one in five homes employed a domestic helper—a trend that endures as dual-income families juggle careers, childcare, and eldercare. With increasing demand, it's more important than ever to stay updated on the hiring process.

1. Employer Eligibility — Know Before You Start

To hire a domestic helper, you must:

• Be at least 21 years old, mentally fit to handle responsibilities, and not an undischarged bankrupt.

• Complete the mandatory Employer Orientation Programme (EOP)—a half-day (or online) course covering salary responsibilities, rest day entitlements, injury protocols, and dispute handling. First-time employers must complete EOP at least two working days before applying for the Work Permit.

2. Work Permit & Legal Framework — Your Checklist

• Apply via MOM’s FDW eService. Each submission and issuance costs S$35, and most applications are processed within 1 to 3 weeks.

• Purchase a S$5,000 security bond (unless employing a Malaysian helper). This ensures contract compliance, salary payment, and proper repatriation.

• Ensure your helper is female, aged 23 to under 50 (or up to age 60 for renewals), from MOM-approved countries (e.g., the Philippines, Indonesia, Myanmar), and has at least eight years of education

3. Insurance & Health Requirements — Updated for 2025

Insurance is now more robust and employer-friendly:

• Medical insurance minimum: S$60,000/year (up from S$15,000); includes a co-payment structure, and from 1 July 2025, must include standardized exclusions, age-based premiums, and direct hospital reimbursement. 

• Personal accident insurance: minimum S$60,000/year.

• Employers must also fund half-yearly medical check-ups for the helper.

• If your household has children under 7 who aren't fully vaccinated against measles, your helper must have proof of immunity against measles starting 1 September 2025

4. Cost Breakdown — Budget Smarter in 2025

1. One-time Costs:

   • Work Permit application & issuance: S$35 + S$35

   • Security bond: S$5,000

   • Settling-In Programme (SIP): ~S$76.40.

2. Monthly Costs:

   • Salary:

     • Filipino: ≥ S$600/month

     • Indonesian: ≥ S$550/month

     • Others (e.g., Myanmar, India): S$500–750 depending on skills.

   • Levy:

     • Standard: S$300/month

     • Concessionary (e.g., families with young children, elderly or disabled residents): S$60/month.

   • Living expenses: ~$270–$350/month

5. Employment Terms & Well-being — Be Fair, Be Clear

• Rest Day: As of 1 January 2023, helpers are entitled to one mandatory rest day per month that can’t be waived. It can be taken as a full day or split into half-days and may be deferred by up to one month with mutual agreement.

• Employment Contract: Must clearly outline working hours, rest day policies, salary details, and termination terms.

6. Interviewing & Selecting the Right Candidate

• Define your needs: eldercare, childcare, housekeeping, cooking, etc.

• Interview candidates thoroughly— find out their skills and language proficiency is crucial.

• Discuss expectations openly and gauge cultural compatibility and communication style.

7. Post-Selection: Welcoming Your Helper

• Agency or direct hire: a licensed agency ensures compliance and handles documentation smoothly.

• Helper completes SIP upon arrival for orientation.

• If all goes well, she’s ready to begin her placement following MOM guidelines.

Final Tip: Think Ethical, Think Long-Term

Hiring a maid in Singapore is no longer just about convenience — it’s about building a fair, respectful, and mutually beneficial relationship. By staying informed about 2025 regulations, budgeting wisely, and choosing the right agency, you can ensure a smooth process for your household while giving your helper the dignity and respect she deserves. By thinking long-term, you not only build a positive relationship but also reduce the hassle of high turnover, rehiring costs, and disruptions in your household routine.