Hiring a Maid in Singapore: Complete 2026 Guide to FDW Rules, Costs, and Employer Responsibilities

Updated on 18 March 2026

Hiring a domestic helper in Singapore can make a big difference in managing your home—whether it’s childcare, elderly care, or daily household tasks. In fact, nearly a quarter of a million households in Singapore rely on foreign domestic workers (FDWs).

But hiring a maid is not just about convenience—it also comes with legal responsibilities, costs, and long-term commitment.

This complete guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from MOM rules and hiring requirements to salary, work permits, and best practices—so you can make confident and informed decisions.

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What You Need to Know Before Hiring a Maid in Singapore

Before starting the hiring process, it’s important to understand that domestic helpers in Singapore:

• Must work full-time

• Must live in your home (live-in rule)

• Can only work for one employer

They are not part-time cleaners—you are responsible for their:

• Salary

• Accommodation

• Food

• Safety and well-being

👉 Learn more about rest and wellbeing in our guide on FDW Off Days in Singapore.

Singapore FDW Rules and Regulations (MOM Guidelines)

Foreign domestic workers in Singapore are regulated by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).

Key Rules:

• FDWs must live with their employer

• They can only perform household and caregiving duties

• They cannot work for other households (no moonlighting)

Employers must also ensure:

• Weekly rest days

• Safe working conditions

• Proper treatment and respect

👉 Read more about workplace safety in Domestic Worker Safety in Singapore.
👉 Learn how to manage issues in Handling Maid Disputes in Singapore.

Requirements to Hire a Maid in Singapore

To hire a domestic helper, you must:

• Be at least 21 years old

• Not be bankrupt

• Have the financial ability to support a helper

• Provide suitable accommodation

Sponsorship Scheme (Special Case)

If you are:

• Above 60 years old

• Without income

A family member can act as your sponsor.

FDW Employment Laws, Salary, and Costs

FDWs are not covered under the Employment Act, but are protected under MOM regulations.

Salary Guidelines

There is no fixed minimum wage in Singapore, but:

• Filipino helpers: ~SGD 570+

• Salaries vary based on:

  • Experience

  • Skills

  • Duties

Mandatory Costs

As an employer, you must:

• Pay monthly levy

  • Standard: SGD 300

  • Concessionary: SGD 60

• Provide:

  • Medical insurance

  • Personal accident insurance

  • $5,000 security bond (for non-Malaysians)

Salary Payment Rules

• Must be paid within 7 days after month-end

• Cannot deduct for:

  • Food

  • Medical expenses

  • Agency fees

👉 Best practice: Pay via bank transfer. Learn more in How to Open a Bank Account for Your Maid in Singapore.

How to Find and Interview the Right Domestic Helper

Choosing the right helper is one of the most important decisions.

Transfer vs Overseas Helpers

Transfer helper (in SG):

• Faster hiring

• In-person interview

Overseas helper:

• Larger candidate pool

• Longer processing time

Interview Tips

Ask about:

• Experience (childcare, elderly care)

• Skills (cooking, cleaning)

• Personality and communication

With HelperChoice, you can:

• Contact helpers directly

• Compare profiles

• Hire without high agency fees

Do You Need a Maid Agency in Singapore?

No—using an agency is optional.

Direct Hiring Benefits

• Lower cost

• More control

• No unnecessary fees

FDWs can be charged up to 2 months’ salary via agencies—this is avoided with direct hiring.

If Using an Agency

• Check reviews and track record

• Ensure ethical practices

HelperChoice works only with trusted and ethical partners.

Applying for a Work Permit (Step-by-Step)

You can apply online via MOM.

Steps:

1. Submit application

2. Receive In-Principle Approval (IPA)

3. Arrange helper’s arrival

4. Complete formalities

Additional Requirements

• Employer Orientation Programme (EOP)

• Settling-In Programme (SIP) for helper

• Insurance + security bond

Employer Responsibilities (Must-Know)

As an employer, you must:

• Provide food and accommodation

• Pay salary on time

• Ensure weekly rest day

• Cover medical expenses

• Provide a safe work environment

👉 Learn more:

• FDW Off Days in Singapore

• Domestic Worker Safety in Singapore

Maid Salary and Deductions

What You Cannot Deduct

It is illegal to deduct salary for:

• Food

• Medical care

• Work permit costs

• Agency fees

Payment Best Practices

• Pay via bank transfer

• Keep records

• Be consistent

Common Mistakes Employers Should Avoid

Avoid these to prevent disputes:

• No rest days

• Late salary payments

• Unsafe working conditions

• Poor communication

How to Build a Positive Employer-Helper Relationship

A successful working relationship is built on:

• Clear communication

• Mutual respect

• Fair treatment

When your helper feels supported, she is more likely to:

• Stay long-term

• Perform better

• Build trust with your family

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I hire a maid without an agency in Singapore?

Yes, direct hiring is allowed and often more cost-effective.

What is the minimum salary for a domestic helper?

There is no fixed minimum in Singapore, but sending countries may impose minimums.

Can my helper work on her rest day?

Yes, but only with her agreement and proper compensation.

Is bank transfer mandatory for salary?

Not mandatory, but strongly recommended for transparency.

Start Hiring a Domestic Helper Today

Hiring the right helper doesn’t have to be complicated.

With HelperChoice, you can:

• Browse verified profiles

• Contact helpers directly

• Avoid unnecessary agency fees

👉 Start your search today on HelperChoice

Search now →