{"id":12477,"date":"2020-09-28T07:53:32","date_gmt":"2020-09-27T23:53:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/maid\/hiring-indonesian\/"},"modified":"2026-03-19T11:43:10","modified_gmt":"2026-03-19T03:43:10","slug":"hiring-indonesian","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/en-sg\/hiring-indonesian\/","title":{"rendered":"Hiring an Indonesian Domestic Worker in Singapore: Step by Step Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><em>Updated on 13 March 2026<\/em><\/p><div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_81 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/en-sg\/hiring-indonesian\/#Indonesian_MDW_Requirements\" >Indonesian MDW Requirements<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/en-sg\/hiring-indonesian\/#Applying_for_the_Work_Permit_MOM\" >Applying for the Work Permit (MOM)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/en-sg\/hiring-indonesian\/#Costs_to_Consider_as_an_Employer\" >Costs to Consider as an Employer<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/en-sg\/hiring-indonesian\/#Monthly_Salary_Levy\" >Monthly Salary &amp; Levy<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/en-sg\/hiring-indonesian\/#Upfront_Expenses\" >Upfront Expenses<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/en-sg\/hiring-indonesian\/#Why_Choose_a_Transfer_Hire\" >Why Choose a Transfer Hire?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/en-sg\/hiring-indonesian\/#Let_HelperChoice_Handle_the_Red_Tape\" >Let HelperChoice Handle the Red Tape<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/en-sg\/hiring-indonesian\/#Ready_to_find_your_new_household_partner\" >Ready to find your new household partner?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/en-sg\/hiring-indonesian\/#You_might_also_be_interested_in\" >You might also be interested in:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-15826\" src=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Hiring-an-Indonesian-Maid-in-Singapore-2026-Process-Costs-1.png\" alt=\"Hiring an indonesian maid in singapore 2026 process &amp; costs (1)\" width=\"800\" height=\"550\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-path-to-node=\"4\">Indonesia is the primary source country for domestic workers in Singapore, accounting for nearly half of the city-state&#8217;s migrant domestic worker (MDW) population. Known for their diligence and cultural adaptability, Indonesian workers are a popular choice for families seeking support with childcare, elderly care, and housekeeping.<\/p>\n<p data-path-to-node=\"5\">Hiring an Indonesian domestic worker requires navigating regulations from both the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mom.gov.sg\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ministry of Manpower (MOM<\/a><b data-path-to-node=\"5\" data-index-in-node=\"83\">)<\/b> and the <b data-path-to-node=\"5\" data-index-in-node=\"128\">Indonesian Embassy<\/b>. Whether you are hiring a new worker from overseas or a local transfer, understanding the current landscape is essential.<\/p>\n<h2 data-path-to-node=\"7\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Indonesian_MDW_Requirements\"><\/span><b data-path-to-node=\"7\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Indonesian MDW Requirements<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-path-to-node=\"8\">To ensure a smooth hiring process, your candidate must meet specific criteria from both governments:<\/p>\n<ul data-path-to-node=\"9\">\n<li>\n<p data-path-to-node=\"9,0,0\"><b data-path-to-node=\"9,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Age:<\/b> Must be at least <b data-path-to-node=\"9,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"22\">23 years old<\/b> (MOM requirement).<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p data-path-to-node=\"9,1,0\"><b data-path-to-node=\"9,1,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Education:<\/b> Must have proof of at least <b data-path-to-node=\"9,1,0\" data-index-in-node=\"39\">8 years of formal education<\/b>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p data-path-to-node=\"9,2,0\"><b data-path-to-node=\"9,2,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">KTKLN Card Update:<\/b> While the physical KTKLN card has been phased out, most Indonesian workers must be registered with the <b data-path-to-node=\"9,2,0\" data-index-in-node=\"122\">BP2MI<\/b> (Indonesian Migrant Workers Protection Agency) and possess a valid <b data-path-to-node=\"9,2,0\" data-index-in-node=\"195\">E-PMI<\/b> (Electronic Migrant Worker Identity).<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p data-path-to-node=\"9,3,0\"><b data-path-to-node=\"9,3,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Embassy Contract:<\/b> The Indonesian Embassy in Singapore requires a specific <b data-path-to-node=\"9,3,0\" data-index-in-node=\"74\">Standard Employment Contract<\/b> to be signed and notarized, which often includes specific stipulations on rest days and salary.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 data-path-to-node=\"11\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Applying_for_the_Work_Permit_MOM\"><\/span><b data-path-to-node=\"11\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Applying for the Work Permit (MOM)<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-path-to-node=\"12\">As the employer, you are responsible for all local administrative tasks and costs.<\/p>\n<ul data-path-to-node=\"13\">\n<li>\n<p data-path-to-node=\"13,0,0\"><b data-path-to-node=\"13,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Work Permit Application:<\/b> This is processed online via the MOM website. As of 2026, the fees remain <b data-path-to-node=\"13,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"99\">S$35 for the application<\/b> and <b data-path-to-node=\"13,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"128\">S$35 for the issuance<\/b> of the Work Pass.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p data-path-to-node=\"13,1,0\"><b data-path-to-node=\"13,1,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Security Bond &amp; Insurance:<\/b> You must purchase a <b data-path-to-node=\"13,1,0\" data-index-in-node=\"47\">S$5,000 security bond<\/b> and a medical insurance policy with a minimum coverage of <b data-path-to-node=\"13,1,0\" data-index-in-node=\"127\">S$60,000 per year<\/b>, along with personal accident insurance.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p data-path-to-node=\"13,2,0\"><b data-path-to-node=\"13,2,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Settling-In Programme (SIP):<\/b> If the domestic worker is a first-timer in Singapore, she must attend the 1-day SIP within three working days of arrival.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p data-path-to-node=\"13,3,0\"><b data-path-to-node=\"13,3,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Medical Examination:<\/b> Within two weeks of arrival, the worker must undergo a medical check-up to confirm she is fit for work.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p data-path-to-node=\"13,4,0\"><b data-path-to-node=\"13,4,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Employer Orientation Programme (EOP):<\/b> First-time employers must complete the EOP (online or in-person) before applying for the Work Permit.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>See also:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/maid\/work-permit\">FDW work permit<\/a><\/em><\/li>\n<li><em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/maid\/employer-orientation-programme\">Employer and FDW Orientation Programmes<\/a><\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 data-path-to-node=\"15\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Costs_to_Consider_as_an_Employer\"><\/span><b data-path-to-node=\"15\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Costs to Consider as an Employer<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-path-to-node=\"16\">While Singapore does not have a government-mandated &#8220;minimum wage,&#8221; the Indonesian government sets a baseline to ensure fair compensation for their citizens.<\/p>\n<h3 data-path-to-node=\"17\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Monthly_Salary_Levy\"><\/span><b data-path-to-node=\"17\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Monthly Salary &amp; Levy<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul data-path-to-node=\"18\">\n<li>\n<p data-path-to-node=\"18,0,0\"><b data-path-to-node=\"18,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Minimum Wage:<\/b> For 2026, the Indonesian authorities generally expect a minimum salary of <b data-path-to-node=\"18,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"88\">S<span class=\"math-inline\" data-math=\"600 to S\" data-index-in-node=\"89\">$600 to S$<\/span>650<\/b>, though market rates for experienced domestic workers often reach <b data-path-to-node=\"18,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"167\">S<span class=\"math-inline\" data-math=\"750\u2013S\" data-index-in-node=\"168\">$750\u2013S$<\/span>900<\/b>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p data-path-to-node=\"18,1,0\"><b data-path-to-node=\"18,1,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Monthly Levy:<\/b> The standard levy is <b data-path-to-node=\"18,1,0\" data-index-in-node=\"35\">S$300<\/b> for the first worker. However, families with young children, elderly members (67+), or persons with disabilities qualify for the <b data-path-to-node=\"18,1,0\" data-index-in-node=\"170\">concessionary rate of S$60<\/b>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 data-path-to-node=\"19\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Upfront_Expenses\"><\/span><b data-path-to-node=\"19\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Upfront Expenses<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul data-path-to-node=\"20\">\n<li>\n<p data-path-to-node=\"20,0,0\"><b data-path-to-node=\"20,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Airfare:<\/b> You must provide a one-way ticket for the domestic worker to arrive in Singapore and a return ticket at the end of the contract.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p data-path-to-node=\"20,1,0\"><b data-path-to-node=\"20,1,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Zero Placement Fee Policy:<\/b> Indonesia continues to advocate for a policy where the employer covers recruitment and training costs so the worker arrives debt-free.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p data-path-to-node=\"20,2,0\"><b data-path-to-node=\"20,2,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Agency vs. Direct Hire:<\/b> While agencies charge service fees (S<span class=\"math-inline\" data-math=\"1,000\u2013S\" data-index-in-node=\"61\">$1,000\u2013S$<\/span>2,500), a direct hire via <b data-path-to-node=\"20,2,0\" data-index-in-node=\"94\">HelperChoice<\/b> allows you to save on commissions while ensuring your domestic worker is paid fairly.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>See also: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/maid\/cost-of-hiring\"><em>Costs of Hiring a Maid in Singapore<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n<h2 data-path-to-node=\"22\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Choose_a_Transfer_Hire\"><\/span><b data-path-to-node=\"22\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Why Choose a Transfer Hire?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-path-to-node=\"23\">Many employers prefer hiring an Indonesian domestic worker who is already in Singapore.<\/p>\n<ul data-path-to-node=\"24\">\n<li>\n<p data-path-to-node=\"24,0,0\"><b data-path-to-node=\"24,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">No Waiting Time:<\/b> Overseas hiring can take 8\u201312 weeks; a transfer can be finalized in as little as <b data-path-to-node=\"24,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"98\">2\u20134 weeks<\/b>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p data-path-to-node=\"24,1,0\"><b data-path-to-node=\"24,1,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Proven Local Skills:<\/b> Transfer workers are already accustomed to Singaporean life, wet markets, and transport systems.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p data-path-to-node=\"24,2,0\"><b data-path-to-node=\"24,2,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Interviews:<\/b> You can conduct face-to-face interviews and cooking trials to ensure a perfect fit for your household.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 data-path-to-node=\"26\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Let_HelperChoice_Handle_the_Red_Tape\"><\/span><b data-path-to-node=\"26\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Let HelperChoice Handle the Red Tape<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-path-to-node=\"27\">Hiring from Indonesia involves specific embassy notarization and MOM filings that can be daunting. <b data-path-to-node=\"27\" data-index-in-node=\"99\">HelperChoice<\/b> provides professional, end-to-end processing services specifically for Indonesian MDWs.<\/p>\n<ul data-path-to-node=\"28\">\n<li>\n<p data-path-to-node=\"28,0,0\"><b data-path-to-node=\"28,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Embassy Liaising:<\/b> We handle the notarization of the Indonesian Standard Contract.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p data-path-to-node=\"28,1,0\"><b data-path-to-node=\"28,1,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Work Permit Filing:<\/b> Our experts ensure your MOM application is error-free and compliant.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p data-path-to-node=\"28,2,0\"><b data-path-to-node=\"28,2,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Insurance Packages:<\/b> Get the best rates on 2026-compliant S$60,000 medical insurance and security bond installments<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 data-path-to-node=\"29\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ready_to_find_your_new_household_partner\"><\/span><b data-path-to-node=\"29\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Ready to find your new household partner?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-path-to-node=\"30\">Simplify your hiring journey today and ensure your domestic worker starts on the right foot\u2014debt-free and fully compliant.<\/p>\n<p data-path-to-node=\"30\">\ud83d\udc49 <a href=\"https:\/\/wa.me\/+85258014645\"><b data-path-to-node=\"31\" data-index-in-node=\"3\">Start Your Indonesian Visa Processing<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<p data-path-to-node=\"30\">\ud83d\udc49 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/domestic-helpers\/singapore\"><b data-path-to-node=\"31\" data-index-in-node=\"46\">Browse Experienced Indonesian Domestic Workers in Singapore<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"You_might_also_be_interested_in\"><\/span><strong>You might also be interested in:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/maid\/requirements\">Domestic Helper Legal Requirements<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/maid\/employment-law\">Maid Employment Law<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/maid\/work-permit\">Foreign Domestic Worker Work permit<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/maid\/employer-orientation-programme\">Employer and FDW Orientation Programmes<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a class=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/r\/singapore-maids\">Search Now \u2192<\/a><\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Updated on 13 March 2026 Indonesia is the primary source country for domestic workers in Singapore, accounting for nearly half of the city-state&#8217;s migrant domestic worker (MDW) population. Known for their diligence and cultural adaptability, Indonesian workers are a popular choice for families seeking support with childcare, elderly care, and housekeeping. Hiring an Indonesian domestic [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":53,"featured_media":12479,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"slim_seo":{"description":"Learn how to hire an Indonesian migrant domestic worker in Singapore. Discover 2026 MOM regulations, Indonesian Embassy requirements, and a full breakdown of costs.","title":"Hiring an Indonesian Domestic Worker in Singapore: Step by Step Guide - HelperChoice Blog"},"footnotes":""},"categories":[421,423],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-12477","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-hiring-a-helpersg","category-hiring-preparation-sg"],"blocksy_meta":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/910e362e2be8cf9316fe465b94ce8173f0f1cdea-hire-domestic-helper-agreement-contract-1.jpg","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12477","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/53"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=12477"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12477\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":15827,"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12477\/revisions\/15827"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/12479"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=12477"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=12477"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=12477"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}