Categories: Hiring Preparation (SG)Training Your Helper (SG)

Hiring a Domestic Worker? A 5-Step Guide to Mandatory Orientation

Updated on 13 March 2026

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If you’re getting ready to welcome a new domestic worker into your home, you’re probably feeling a mix of excitement and a little bit of “paperwork panic.” Don’t worry—we’ve got you!

In Singapore, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has put a few friendly “checkpoints” in place to make sure both you and your helper feel supported, safe, and ready for this new journey together. Here is our easy-to-follow, 5-step guide to the mandatory orientation process for 2026.

Step 1: Get Your “Employer License” (The EOP)

Think of this as your “Welcome to Management” mandatory course! If this is your first time hiring a domestic worker, you’ll need to complete the Employer Orientation Programme (EOP). It’s actually quite helpful—it covers your legal heart-to-hearts (like salary and rest days) and how to build a great relationship.

Your Choices: You can do it online (about 2 hours for S$46) or attend a classroom session (about 3 hours for S$35) if you prefer a more personal touch.
Good to Know: You only need to do this once! However, if you find yourself changing helpers frequently (more than 3 in a year), MOM might ask you to pop back in for a refresher.

Note that the Ministry of Manpower can decide at their discretion to send employers to this course a second time. This is generally the case if an employer has changed helpers frequently. For instance, if you have changed more than 3 FDWs within a 12-month period, and want to apply for another maid, you will likely need to enroll for the orientation programme again

Step 2: Paperwork & Peace of Mind

Once you’ve got your EOP certificate, it’s time to tell MOM the good news! You’ll apply for the Work Permit and set up your “safety net.” For 2026, this includes:

Medical Insurance: Coverage of at least S$60,000 per year.
Personal Accident Insurance: Also at least S$60,000.
Security Bond: A S$5,000 bond (unless your helper is Malaysian).

Step 3: The Big Welcome (The SIP)

When your domestic worker arrives, she’ll attend the Settling-In Programme (SIP) within her first three working days. It’s a lovely one-day course conducted in her native language.

What She Learns: Everything from how to stay safe in high-rise apartments to her rights as a worker in our city.
The Cost: It’s about S$75, and as her supportive employer, this is a cost you’ll cover for her!

Step 4: The Health High-Five

Within her first two weeks, she’ll head to a local doctor for a quick medical check-up. This is just to make sure she’s feeling 100% and is fit as a fiddle to start her new role with your family.

Step 5: Your First “Family Meeting”

Orientation isn’t just about classrooms—it’s about the bond you build at home! On her first day:

Go Over the Basics: Chat about the rights and responsibilities, the schedule, and that all-important rest day.
Safety Tour: Show her the ropes in the kitchen and how you like things done.
Build Trust: Start with a smile and open ears. A happy home starts with clear, kind communication!

A Quick Note on Costs

Just a friendly reminder: all these orientation and medical costs are the employer’s responsibility. It’s a great way to show your new domestic worker that you’re invested in her success from day one!

Let HelperChoice Make it Easy!

We know you’re busy, so why not let us handle the “red tape”? At HelperChoice, we’re experts at 2026 MOM regulations. We can schedule your EOP, her SIP, and handle all the visa and insurance bits so you can focus on the fun part—welcoming your new household partner!

👉 Start Your Domestic Worker Processing Today

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