Foreign domestic workers (FDWs) play an essential role in many households across Singapore—helping with childcare, elderly care, and daily household tasks. However, it is important for employers to understand that FDWs can only perform specific types of work under Ministry of Manpower (MOM) regulations.
So what exactly is a domestic helper allowed to do—and what is not allowed?
This guide explains the allowed duties, prohibited work, and employer responsibilities, based on updated MOM rules.
What Jobs Can a Maid Do in Singapore?
Under MOM guidelines, a domestic helper is allowed to perform household and caregiving duties only, for the employer and within the employer’s residence.
Common Allowed Duties
Foreign domestic workers can typically perform:
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Cleaning the house
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Washing and ironing clothes
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Cooking meals
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Grocery shopping and household errands
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Taking care of children
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Caring for elderly family members
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Looking after pets
These duties must be related to the employer’s household and family members.
Can a Maid Wash a Car or Do Gardening?
👉 This is a common question—and the answer requires clarification.
Under current MOM guidance:
✔ Car washing and simple gardening may be allowed
ONLY IF:
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It is for the employer’s own household
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It is safe to perform
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It does not involve hazardous or commercial activity
❌ Not allowed if:
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Done for a business
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Done for another household
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Involves unsafe conditions (e.g. climbing, heavy equipment)
What Jobs Are NOT Allowed?
MOM strictly prohibits FDWs from performing non-domestic or commercial work.
Prohibited Activities
A domestic helper is NOT allowed to:
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Work for another employer (even part-time)
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Work in a shop, office, or food stall
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Help run a business (including home-based businesses)
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Perform duties outside household scope
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Take up freelance or paid work during rest days
Real-Life Example
Employers have been penalised for illegal deployment.
In one case:
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A helper was asked to assist at a food stall
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Employer was fined and security bond forfeited
MOM Rules on FDW Employment Scope
According to MOM:
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FDWs must work only for their sponsoring employer
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Work must be limited to domestic household duties
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Employment is tied to a specific residential address
➡️ This means:
Even if your helper is willing, you cannot legally allow her to:
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Work for relatives
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Help in another home
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Earn extra income outside
Employer Responsibilities and Penalties
As an employer, you are responsible for ensuring compliance with MOM regulations.
Key Responsibilities
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Assign only allowed duties
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Ensure work is safe and reasonable
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Clearly communicate job scope
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Prevent illegal deployment
Penalties for Non-Compliance
If rules are violated, employers may face:
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Work Permit revocation
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Forfeiture of $5,000 security bond
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Ban from hiring FDWs
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Fines or prosecution
Ensure Open Communication
Clear communication is one of the most effective ways to avoid misunderstandings.
What You Should Do
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Explain clearly:
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Allowed duties
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Restricted tasks
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Discuss expectations early
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Encourage your helper to:
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Ask questions
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Raise concerns
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Include Duties in a Written Agreement
Although not mandatory, it is best practice to document:
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Daily tasks
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Responsibilities
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Boundaries
This protects both:
✔ Employer
✔ Domestic helper
Best Practices for Managing Duties
To build a positive and compliant working relationship:
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Create a clear daily task list
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Set realistic expectations
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Avoid overloading your helper
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Ensure proper rest and safety
Support Skill Development
Employers can also support helpers by:
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Enrolling them in:
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Cooking classes
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Caregiving training
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Language courses
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This improves:
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Work quality
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Confidence
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Long-term relationship
Final Thoughts
Domestic helpers play an important role in supporting families—but their work must stay within legal and ethical boundaries.
By understanding what is:
✔ Allowed
✔ Not allowed
✔ Required under MOM
…you can ensure a safe, compliant, and respectful working environment.
At HelperChoice, we promote ethical hiring and clear communication—because a well-informed employer leads to a better experience for everyone.
Find out what domestic helpers learn before they work overseas
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