Updated on 18 March 2026
There are over 250,000 foreign domestic workers (FDWs) in Singapore today, and a significant number come from the Philippines. They support households across the country—helping with childcare, elderly care, and daily home management for both local and expatriate families.
If you’re considering hiring a Filipino domestic helper, it’s important to know that while the general hiring process is governed by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), Filipino workers are also subject to additional requirements set by their home government.
Understanding these differences will help you avoid delays, stay compliant, and ensure a smoother hiring experience for both you and your helper.
Hiring a Maid from the Philippines
While Singapore welcomes domestic helpers from several countries, many employers prefer Filipino helpers because of their strong English communication skills and caregiving experience. Cultural fit and personality will always matter more, but these are often seen as added advantages.
That said, hiring a Filipino helper comes with a few additional steps compared to other nationalities.
Salary Expectations (Updated)
Singapore does not impose a fixed minimum salary for domestic helpers, but sending countries like the Philippines do.
Filipino helpers are typically required to receive:
👉 Around SGD 570 or higher
In reality today, most employers offer:
👉 SGD 600–800+, depending on experience and job scope
MOM Requirements (Singapore Side)
Under MOM Singapore regulations, employers must provide:
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A $5,000 security bond (for non-Malaysian helpers)
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Medical insurance (minimum SGD 60,000/year)
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Personal accident insurance (minimum SGD 60,000)
Philippine Requirements (Important)
Filipino domestic workers must also comply with their government’s deployment rules.
This includes:
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Securing an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC)
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Having an employment contract verified by the Philippine Embassy
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Being registered with OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration)
These steps are designed to protect workers and ensure they are employed under fair conditions.
About the “$7,000 Bond” (Updated Clarification)
Older processes sometimes required a $7,000 performance bond through the Philippine Embassy.
👉 As of recent updates:
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This is no longer a standard requirement in all cases
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Requirements may vary depending on:
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Type of hire (new vs transfer)
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Embassy procedures
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It’s always best to confirm directly with the embassy or your processing partner.
Finding a Great Domestic Helper
When it comes to hiring, employers usually choose between using an agency or hiring directly.
Using a Maid Agency
Agencies can assist with candidate matching, documentation and processing
However, not all agencies offer the same level of service, and some may have limited candidate pools. If you decide to use one, it’s a good idea to review their track record through MOM.
Direct Hiring (Recommended Approach)
Many employers now prefer to hire directly.
This approach allows you to:
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Communicate with helpers directly
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Better assess personality and fit
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Avoid unnecessary agency fees
With HelperChoice, you can browse thousands of profiles and speak with candidates before making a decision—which can make a big difference when someone will be working closely with your family.
What Duties Can a Maid Perform?
Regardless of nationality, all domestic helpers in Singapore are subject to the same MOM rules.
They can only perform specific duties and:
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Work for their sponsoring employer
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Perform domestic and caregiving duties
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Work at the address stated on their Work Permit
Typical Duties
These include:
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Cleaning and housekeeping
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Cooking
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Childcare
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Elderly care
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Grocery shopping
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Pet care
Important Clarification
Some older guidelines suggest that helpers cannot do tasks like car washing or gardening.
👉 Under current practice and MOM’s updated guidelines:
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These may be allowed if they are for your household and safe to perform
However, helpers are not allowed to:
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Work for another household
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Help in a business (e.g. shop, food stall)
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Take on part-time work
👉 Refer to MOM employment rules here:
Training and Skills
Filipino domestic workers typically undergo training through TESDA (Technical Education and Skills Development Authority) before deployment.
This ensures they are equipped with:
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Household management skills
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Basic caregiving knowledge
Employers can also support further development through:
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Cooking classes
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Caregiving courses
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Language training
Employer Responsibilities
Hiring a domestic helper comes with responsibilities beyond recruitment.
Employers are expected to:
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Provide proper accommodation and food
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Pay salary on time
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Ensure weekly rest days
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Cover medical expenses
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Send helpers for 6-monthly medical examinations
If you’re a first-time employer, you’ll also need to attend the Employer Orientation Programme (EOP).
Final Thoughts
Hiring a Filipino maid in Singapore can be a very rewarding experience for your household—but it’s important to approach the process with the right expectations and understanding.
When you take the time to:
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Understand both Singapore and Philippine requirements
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Communicate clearly
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Treat your helper fairly
…you set the foundation for a strong and lasting working relationship.
At HelperChoice, we believe hiring should always be transparent, ethical, and human—because behind every profile is a real person with goals and responsibilities of their own.
Search for your ideal helper now! →