Categories: Hiring Preparation (SG)Salary & Finances (SG)

Cost of Hiring a Maid in Singapore: Full Breakdown of FDW Expenses

Updated on 18 March 2026

Before hiring a full-time domestic helper in Singapore, it’s important to understand the true cost involved—from upfront fees to monthly expenses and long-term commitments.

While hiring a foreign domestic worker (FDW) can significantly improve daily life—especially for families with children or elderly—it also comes with financial and legal responsibilities under the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).

This guide provides a complete and updated breakdown of hiring costs so you can plan confidently and make informed decisions.

Total Cost Overview

Hiring a full-time domestic helper in Singapore typically costs:

~SGD 15,000 to SGD 20,000+ per year

This includes salary, levy, insurance and living expenses.

❗ Important: Domestic helpers should not bear any of these costs, as this may lead to debt and is considered unethical and non-compliant with fair hiring principles.

Upfront Costs

Before your helper arrives, there are several one-time expenses.

Typical One-Time Costs:

HelperChoice membership: SGD 59 – 139
Employer Orientation Programme (EOP): SGD 35 – 60
Work Permit application: SGD 35
Work Permit issuance: SGD 35
Settling-In Programme (SIP): ~SGD 75
Pre-employment medical exam: ~SGD 80
Flight to Singapore: SGD 100+

👉 MOM work permit process:
https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/work-permit-for-foreign-domestic-worker

Agency vs Direct Hire

If you use an agency: Add SGD 800–2,000+

If you hire directly:

You can save up to SGD 2,000+
Avoid unnecessary placement fees

Recurring Monthly Costs (2026 Update)

Employers are responsible for all ongoing costs of employing an FDW.

1. Salary

Typical range: SGD 600 – 800+ per month
(depending on experience, nationality, and duties)

👉 Note: There is no official minimum salary in Singapore, but sending countries may impose minimums.

2. Levy (Government Fee)

Standard: SGD 300/month
Concessionary: SGD 60/month

👉 Check out your eligibility here:

3. Insurance (Updated Requirement)

Employers must provide:

Medical insurance: minimum SGD 60,000/year
Personal accident insurance: minimum SGD 60,000

Estimated cost:

~SGD 300–500/year (varies by provider)

4. Food and Accommodation

Food: varies (~SGD 200–400/month depending on household)
Accommodation: must be provided (no extra cost but space required)

5. Medical Expenses

6-monthly medical exam (6ME): ~SGD 40–80 per visit
Any additional treatment must be fully covered by employer

6. Miscellaneous Costs

Transport and daily expenses: ~SGD 100+/month
Toiletries and personal items

Estimated Monthly Total

With levy concession: ~SGD 1,200 – 1,400/month
Without concession: ~SGD 1,400 – 1,700/month

👉 Actual cost depends on:

Salary agreed
Household needs
Lifestyle and spending

Additional and Long-Term Costs

Employers should also prepare for:

1. Medical Emergencies

If costs exceed insurance:

Employer must cover the difference

2. Home Leave Costs

Employers are responsible for:

Return flight tickets
Related travel expenses

3. End-of-Contract Repatriation

When employment ends:

Employer must pay for helper’s return home

4. Renewal Costs

Work Permit renewal: ~SGD 35
Insurance renewal

Part-Time vs Full-Time Helpers

If you’re unsure about hiring full-time, consider alternatives.

Part-Time Cleaning Services

Cost: SGD 10–30/hour
Monthly: ~SGD 400–600

✔ Suitable for cleaning and smaller households only.

Important Rules to Remember

Foreign domestic workers:
❌ Cannot be hired part-time
❌ Cannot work for multiple households

👉 This is strictly regulated by MOM:

Final Thoughts

Hiring a domestic helper in Singapore is a long-term financial commitment, but also a valuable investment in your family’s well-being.

By understanding the full cost structure and following MOM regulations, you can avoid unexpected expenses, stay compliant and build a fair and respectful working relationship

At HelperChoice, we promote transparent and ethical hiring—so both employers and helpers benefit. Contact our team for your domestic worker search and visa processing requirements!
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