{"id":12500,"date":"2020-09-28T07:53:32","date_gmt":"2020-09-27T23:53:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/maid\/cost-of-hiring\/"},"modified":"2026-03-24T10:44:20","modified_gmt":"2026-03-24T02:44:20","slug":"cost-of-hiring","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/en-sg\/cost-of-hiring\/","title":{"rendered":"Cost of Hiring a Maid in Singapore: Full Breakdown of FDW Expenses"},"content":{"rendered":"<p data-start=\"396\" data-end=\"572\"><em>Updated on 18 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\/cost-of-hiring\/#Total_Cost_Overview\" >Total Cost Overview<\/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\/cost-of-hiring\/#Upfront_Costs\" >Upfront Costs<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/en-sg\/cost-of-hiring\/#Typical_One-Time_Costs\" >Typical One-Time Costs:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/en-sg\/cost-of-hiring\/#Agency_vs_Direct_Hire\" >Agency vs Direct Hire<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/en-sg\/cost-of-hiring\/#Recurring_Monthly_Costs_2026_Update\" >Recurring Monthly Costs (2026 Update)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/en-sg\/cost-of-hiring\/#1_Salary\" >1. Salary<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/en-sg\/cost-of-hiring\/#2_Levy_Government_Fee\" >2. Levy (Government Fee)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/en-sg\/cost-of-hiring\/#3_Insurance_Updated_Requirement\" >3. Insurance (Updated Requirement)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/en-sg\/cost-of-hiring\/#4_Food_and_Accommodation\" >4. Food and Accommodation<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/en-sg\/cost-of-hiring\/#5_Medical_Expenses\" >5. Medical Expenses<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/en-sg\/cost-of-hiring\/#6_Miscellaneous_Costs\" >6. Miscellaneous Costs<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/en-sg\/cost-of-hiring\/#Estimated_Monthly_Total\" >Estimated Monthly Total<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/en-sg\/cost-of-hiring\/#Additional_and_Long-Term_Costs\" >Additional and Long-Term Costs<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/en-sg\/cost-of-hiring\/#1_Medical_Emergencies\" >1. Medical Emergencies<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/en-sg\/cost-of-hiring\/#2_Home_Leave_Costs\" >2. Home Leave Costs<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/en-sg\/cost-of-hiring\/#3_End-of-Contract_Repatriation\" >3. End-of-Contract Repatriation<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/en-sg\/cost-of-hiring\/#4_Renewal_Costs\" >4. Renewal Costs<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/en-sg\/cost-of-hiring\/#Part-Time_vs_Full-Time_Helpers\" >Part-Time vs Full-Time Helpers<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/en-sg\/cost-of-hiring\/#Part-Time_Cleaning_Services\" >Part-Time Cleaning Services<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/en-sg\/cost-of-hiring\/#Important_Rules_to_Remember\" >Important Rules to Remember<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/en-sg\/cost-of-hiring\/#Final_Thoughts\" >Final Thoughts<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/en-sg\/cost-of-hiring\/#You_might_also_be_interested_in\" >You might also be interested in:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<p data-start=\"396\" data-end=\"572\">Before hiring a full-time domestic helper in Singapore, it\u2019s important to understand the <strong data-start=\"485\" data-end=\"507\">true cost involved<\/strong>\u2014from upfront fees to monthly expenses and long-term commitments.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"574\" data-end=\"819\">While hiring a foreign domestic worker (FDW) can significantly improve daily life\u2014especially for families with children or elderly\u2014it also comes with financial and legal responsibilities under the <span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Ministry of Manpower<\/span><\/span> (MOM).<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"821\" data-end=\"959\">This guide provides a <strong data-start=\"843\" data-end=\"901\">complete and updated breakdown of hiring costs<\/strong>\u00a0so you can plan confidently and make informed decisions.<\/p>\n<h2 data-section-id=\"59iggf\" data-start=\"1130\" data-end=\"1152\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Total_Cost_Overview\"><\/span>Total Cost Overview<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"1154\" data-end=\"1218\">Hiring a full-time domestic helper in Singapore typically costs:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"1220\" data-end=\"1261\">\n<li data-section-id=\"b6a160\" data-start=\"1220\" data-end=\"1261\">\n<p data-start=\"1222\" data-end=\"1261\"><strong data-start=\"1222\" data-end=\"1261\">~SGD 15,000 to SGD 20,000+ per year<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"1263\" data-end=\"1277\">This includes salary, levy, insurance and living expenses.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1333\" data-end=\"1506\"><strong>\u2757 Important:<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1333\" data-end=\"1506\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-15987\" src=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/maid-hiring-costs.png\" alt=\"Maid hiring costs\" width=\"800\" height=\"550\" \/><\/p>\n<h2 data-section-id=\"1fflgd5\" data-start=\"1513\" data-end=\"1529\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Upfront_Costs\"><\/span>Upfront Costs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"1531\" data-end=\"1595\">Before your helper arrives, there are several one-time expenses.<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"nmvcxu\" data-start=\"1602\" data-end=\"1629\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Typical_One-Time_Costs\"><\/span>Typical One-Time Costs:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul data-start=\"1631\" data-end=\"1939\">\n<li data-section-id=\"11ey5fd\" data-start=\"1631\" data-end=\"1676\">\n<p data-start=\"1633\" data-end=\"1676\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/domestic-helpers\/singapore\">HelperChoice membership<\/a>: <strong data-start=\"1658\" data-end=\"1674\">SGD 59 \u2013 139\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"nqw8k5\" data-start=\"1677\" data-end=\"1734\">\n<p data-start=\"1679\" data-end=\"1734\">Employer Orientation Programme (EOP): <strong data-start=\"1717\" data-end=\"1732\">SGD 35 \u2013 60<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1li4008\" data-start=\"1735\" data-end=\"1774\">\n<p data-start=\"1737\" data-end=\"1774\">Work Permit application: <strong data-start=\"1762\" data-end=\"1772\">SGD 35<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"zd638n\" data-start=\"1775\" data-end=\"1811\">\n<p data-start=\"1777\" data-end=\"1811\">Work Permit issuance: <strong data-start=\"1799\" data-end=\"1809\">SGD 35<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"gy9pfd\" data-start=\"1812\" data-end=\"1856\">\n<p data-start=\"1814\" data-end=\"1856\">Settling-In Programme (SIP): <strong data-start=\"1843\" data-end=\"1854\">~SGD 75<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"16ho310\" data-start=\"1857\" data-end=\"1901\">\n<p data-start=\"1859\" data-end=\"1901\">Pre-employment medical exam: <strong data-start=\"1888\" data-end=\"1899\">~SGD 80<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"119b935\" data-start=\"1902\" data-end=\"1939\">\n<p data-start=\"1904\" data-end=\"1939\">Flight to Singapore: <strong data-start=\"1925\" data-end=\"1937\">SGD 100+<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"1941\" data-end=\"2054\">\ud83d\udc49 MOM work permit process:<br data-start=\"1968\" data-end=\"1971\" \/><a class=\"decorated-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mom.gov.sg\/passes-and-permits\/work-permit-for-foreign-domestic-worker?utm_source=chatgpt.com\" target=\"_new\" rel=\"noopener\" data-start=\"1971\" data-end=\"2052\">https:\/\/www.mom.gov.sg\/passes-and-permits\/work-permit-for-foreign-domestic-worker<\/a><\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"o3osen\" data-start=\"2061\" data-end=\"2086\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Agency_vs_Direct_Hire\"><\/span>Agency vs Direct Hire<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"2088\" data-end=\"2109\">If you use an agency: Add <strong data-start=\"2116\" data-end=\"2134\">SGD 800\u20132,000+<\/strong><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"2136\" data-end=\"2157\">If you hire directly:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"2158\" data-end=\"2232\">\n<li data-section-id=\"4qv59\" data-start=\"2158\" data-end=\"2195\">\n<p data-start=\"2160\" data-end=\"2195\">You can <strong data-start=\"2168\" data-end=\"2193\">save up to SGD 2,000+<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"13ebq7x\" data-start=\"2196\" data-end=\"2232\">\n<p data-start=\"2198\" data-end=\"2232\">Avoid unnecessary placement fees<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 data-section-id=\"1dci84v\" data-start=\"2239\" data-end=\"2279\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Recurring_Monthly_Costs_2026_Update\"><\/span>Recurring Monthly Costs (2026 Update)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"2281\" data-end=\"2349\">Employers are responsible for all ongoing costs of employing an FDW.<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"e0foh9\" data-start=\"2356\" data-end=\"2369\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Salary\"><\/span>1. Salary<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul data-start=\"2371\" data-end=\"2469\">\n<li data-section-id=\"h66t3b\" data-start=\"2371\" data-end=\"2469\">\n<p data-start=\"2373\" data-end=\"2469\">Typical range: <strong data-start=\"2388\" data-end=\"2416\">SGD 600 \u2013 800+ per month<\/strong><br data-start=\"2416\" data-end=\"2419\" \/>(depending on experience, nationality, and duties)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"2471\" data-end=\"2576\">\ud83d\udc49 Note: There is <strong data-start=\"2489\" data-end=\"2532\">no official minimum salary in Singapore<\/strong>, but sending countries may impose minimums.<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"1j1dtri\" data-start=\"2583\" data-end=\"2611\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Levy_Government_Fee\"><\/span>2. Levy (Government Fee)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul data-start=\"2613\" data-end=\"2680\">\n<li data-section-id=\"14q9ez9\" data-start=\"2613\" data-end=\"2644\">\n<p data-start=\"2615\" data-end=\"2644\">Standard: <strong data-start=\"2625\" data-end=\"2642\">SGD 300\/month<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1onx0ot\" data-start=\"2645\" data-end=\"2680\">\n<p data-start=\"2647\" data-end=\"2680\">Concessionary: <strong data-start=\"2662\" data-end=\"2678\">SGD 60\/month<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"2682\" data-end=\"2795\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mom.gov.sg\/passes-and-permits\/work-permit-for-foreign-domestic-worker\">\ud83d\udc49 Check out your eligibility here<\/a>:<br data-start=\"2709\" data-end=\"2712\" \/>\n<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"1dgq1vu\" data-start=\"2802\" data-end=\"2840\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Insurance_Updated_Requirement\"><\/span>3. Insurance (Updated Requirement)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"2842\" data-end=\"2865\">Employers must provide:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"2867\" data-end=\"2971\">\n<li data-section-id=\"1c28fvj\" data-start=\"2867\" data-end=\"2917\">\n<p data-start=\"2869\" data-end=\"2917\">Medical insurance: minimum SGD 60,000\/year<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"vmekhr\" data-start=\"2918\" data-end=\"2971\">\n<p data-start=\"2920\" data-end=\"2971\">Personal accident insurance: minimum SGD 60,000<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"2973\" data-end=\"2988\">Estimated cost:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"2989\" data-end=\"3033\">\n<li data-section-id=\"1mwz7v6\" data-start=\"2989\" data-end=\"3033\">\n<p data-start=\"2991\" data-end=\"3033\">~SGD 300\u2013500\/year (varies by provider)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"1cwqerx\" data-start=\"3040\" data-end=\"3069\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Food_and_Accommodation\"><\/span>4. Food and Accommodation<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul data-start=\"3071\" data-end=\"3200\">\n<li data-section-id=\"8sstmj\" data-start=\"3071\" data-end=\"3131\">\n<p data-start=\"3073\" data-end=\"3131\">Food: varies (~SGD 200\u2013400\/month depending on household)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1vmvgd6\" data-start=\"3132\" data-end=\"3200\">\n<p data-start=\"3134\" data-end=\"3200\">Accommodation: must be provided (no extra cost but space required)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"j5her9\" data-start=\"3207\" data-end=\"3230\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Medical_Expenses\"><\/span>5. Medical Expenses<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul data-start=\"3232\" data-end=\"3353\">\n<li data-section-id=\"12sn4su\" data-start=\"3232\" data-end=\"3290\">\n<p data-start=\"3234\" data-end=\"3290\">6-monthly medical exam (6ME): <strong data-start=\"3264\" data-end=\"3288\">~SGD 40\u201380 per visit<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1s9wjo3\" data-start=\"3291\" data-end=\"3353\">\n<p data-start=\"3293\" data-end=\"3353\">Any additional treatment must be fully covered by employer<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"16bi978\" data-start=\"3360\" data-end=\"3386\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Miscellaneous_Costs\"><\/span>6. Miscellaneous Costs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul data-start=\"3388\" data-end=\"3475\">\n<li data-section-id=\"vg46yz\" data-start=\"3388\" data-end=\"3441\">\n<p data-start=\"3390\" data-end=\"3441\">Transport and daily expenses: <strong data-start=\"3420\" data-end=\"3439\">~SGD 100+\/month<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"up3h0f\" data-start=\"3442\" data-end=\"3475\">\n<p data-start=\"3444\" data-end=\"3475\">Toiletries and personal items<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 data-section-id=\"1sy8df4\" data-start=\"3482\" data-end=\"3508\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Estimated_Monthly_Total\"><\/span>Estimated Monthly Total<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul data-start=\"3510\" data-end=\"3617\">\n<li data-section-id=\"ml2tni\" data-start=\"3510\" data-end=\"3564\">\n<p data-start=\"3512\" data-end=\"3564\"><strong data-start=\"3512\" data-end=\"3537\">With levy concession:<\/strong> ~SGD 1,200 \u2013 1,400\/month<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"12rv5df\" data-start=\"3565\" data-end=\"3617\">\n<p data-start=\"3567\" data-end=\"3617\"><strong data-start=\"3567\" data-end=\"3590\">Without concession:<\/strong> ~SGD 1,400 \u2013 1,700\/month<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"3619\" data-end=\"3645\">\ud83d\udc49 Actual cost depends on:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"3646\" data-end=\"3710\">\n<li data-section-id=\"11tigi4\" data-start=\"3646\" data-end=\"3663\">\n<p data-start=\"3648\" data-end=\"3663\">Salary agreed<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"yt7g62\" data-start=\"3664\" data-end=\"3683\">\n<p data-start=\"3666\" data-end=\"3683\">Household needs<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"3c6v1a\" data-start=\"3684\" data-end=\"3710\">\n<p data-start=\"3686\" data-end=\"3710\">Lifestyle and spending<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 data-section-id=\"1t0mrqe\" data-start=\"3717\" data-end=\"3750\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Additional_and_Long-Term_Costs\"><\/span>Additional and Long-Term Costs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"3752\" data-end=\"3786\">Employers should also prepare for:<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"zonysd\" data-start=\"3793\" data-end=\"3819\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Medical_Emergencies\"><\/span>1. Medical Emergencies<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"3821\" data-end=\"3847\">If costs exceed insurance:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"3848\" data-end=\"3886\">\n<li data-section-id=\"1byi5gh\" data-start=\"3848\" data-end=\"3886\">\n<p data-start=\"3850\" data-end=\"3886\">Employer must cover the difference<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"1191nue\" data-start=\"3893\" data-end=\"3916\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Home_Leave_Costs\"><\/span>2. Home Leave Costs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"3918\" data-end=\"3948\">Employers are responsible for:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"3949\" data-end=\"4002\">\n<li data-section-id=\"14o6r4d\" data-start=\"3949\" data-end=\"3974\">\n<p data-start=\"3951\" data-end=\"3974\">Return flight tickets<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"sdywpo\" data-start=\"3975\" data-end=\"4002\">\n<p data-start=\"3977\" data-end=\"4002\">Related travel expenses<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"8y2rwb\" data-start=\"4009\" data-end=\"4044\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_End-of-Contract_Repatriation\"><\/span>3. End-of-Contract Repatriation<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"4046\" data-end=\"4067\">When employment ends:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"4068\" data-end=\"4114\">\n<li data-section-id=\"76svnc\" data-start=\"4068\" data-end=\"4114\">\n<p data-start=\"4070\" data-end=\"4114\">Employer must pay for helper\u2019s return home<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"4nc3m\" data-start=\"4121\" data-end=\"4141\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Renewal_Costs\"><\/span>4. Renewal Costs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul data-start=\"4143\" data-end=\"4197\">\n<li data-section-id=\"1fk0bey\" data-start=\"4143\" data-end=\"4175\">\n<p data-start=\"4145\" data-end=\"4175\">Work Permit renewal: ~SGD 35<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"85tupg\" data-start=\"4176\" data-end=\"4197\">\n<p data-start=\"4178\" data-end=\"4197\">Insurance renewal<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 data-section-id=\"1mi1ett\" data-start=\"4204\" data-end=\"4237\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Part-Time_vs_Full-Time_Helpers\"><\/span>Part-Time vs Full-Time Helpers<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"4239\" data-end=\"4302\">If you\u2019re unsure about hiring full-time, consider alternatives.<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"kurijm\" data-start=\"4309\" data-end=\"4340\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Part-Time_Cleaning_Services\"><\/span>Part-Time Cleaning Services<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul data-start=\"4342\" data-end=\"4396\">\n<li data-section-id=\"141n80n\" data-start=\"4342\" data-end=\"4370\">\n<p data-start=\"4344\" data-end=\"4370\">Cost: SGD 10\u201330\/hour<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1rfjs3s\" data-start=\"4371\" data-end=\"4396\">\n<p data-start=\"4373\" data-end=\"4396\">Monthly: ~SGD 400\u2013600<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"4398\" data-end=\"4413\">\u2714 Suitable for cleaning and smaller households only.<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"lgwxou\" data-start=\"4461\" data-end=\"4479\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Important_Rules_to_Remember\"><\/span>Important Rules to Remember<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"4481\" data-end=\"4576\">Foreign domestic workers:<br \/>\n\u274c Cannot be hired part-time<br data-start=\"4534\" data-end=\"4537\" \/>\u274c Cannot work for multiple households<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"4578\" data-end=\"4734\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mom.gov.sg\/passes-and-permits\/work-permit-for-foreign-domestic-worker\/employers-guide\/employment-rules\">\ud83d\udc49 This is strictly regulated by MOM:<\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"TyagGW_tableContainer\">\n<div class=\"group TyagGW_tableWrapper flex flex-col-reverse w-fit\" tabindex=\"-1\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 data-section-id=\"114wazr\" data-start=\"4935\" data-end=\"4952\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Final_Thoughts\"><\/span>Final Thoughts<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"4954\" data-end=\"5092\">Hiring a domestic helper in Singapore is a long-term financial commitment, but also a valuable investment in your family\u2019s well-being.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"5094\" data-end=\"5174\">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<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"5278\" data-end=\"5379\">At <a href=\"_wp_link_placeholder\" data-wplink-edit=\"true\">HelperChoice<\/a>, we promote transparent and ethical hiring\u2014so both employers and helpers benefit. <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/wa.me\/+85258014645\">Contact our team<\/a><\/strong> for your domestic worker search and visa processing requirements!<br \/>\n<a class=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/r\/singapore-maids\">Search now \u2192<\/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\">Criteria to Hire a Maid<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/maid\/salary\">Maid Salary<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\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<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/maid\/hiring-indonesian\">Hiring an Indonesian Maid in Singapore<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<figure><\/figure>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Updated on 18 March 2026 Before hiring a full-time domestic helper in Singapore, it\u2019s important to understand the true cost involved\u2014from upfront fees to monthly expenses and long-term commitments. While hiring a foreign domestic worker (FDW) can significantly improve daily life\u2014especially for families with children or elderly\u2014it also comes with financial and legal responsibilities under [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":53,"featured_media":12502,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"slim_seo":{"description":"Costs of hiring a maid in Singapore: See our full breakdown of salary, levy, insurance, and upfront and hidden costs for a fair and transparent hiring","title":"Cost of Hiring a Maid in Singapore: Full Breakdown of FDW Expenses - HelperChoice Blog"},"footnotes":""},"categories":[423,413],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-12500","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-hiring-preparation-sg","category-salary-finances-sg"],"blocksy_meta":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/590fafb220b40ecef935dab05cb771952e865820-costs-of-employing-a-maid.jpg","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12500","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=12500"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12500\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":15988,"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12500\/revisions\/15988"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/12502"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=12500"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=12500"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=12500"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}