Got Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about hiring a domestic helper in Singapore

Why you should hire a helper through EP One Manpower?+

We not only do our utmost to match you with a candidate that best suits your needs but we endeavour to do it with the least disruption to your busy schedule. Every part of the hiring process from initial shortlist, interview to subsequent signatory, payment will be conducted online. The only time you need to visit is when you are ready to bring your helper home.

How long does it take to hire a maid from overseas?+

It typically takes between three to eight weeks for the shortlisted candidate to arrive in Singapore if she has a valid passport, complete set of documents and the application is for a straightforward case (as opposed to for example, a sponsor case). Upon her arrival in Singapore, it takes about another one week for her to pass her medical checkup and attend the mandatory Settling-In Programme before she can start work in your home.

What is the average basic salary of an Indonesian maid?+

S$550. Basic salary commensurate with experience.

What is the average basic salary of a Myanmar maid?+

S$480 to S$550. Basic salary commensurate with experience.

What is the average basic salary of a Filipino maid?+

S$650. Basic salary commensurate with experience.

What is the maid levy?+

All employers who hire MDWs in Singapore are required to pay a monthly maid levy to The Central Provident Fund (collecting on behalf of MOM). The Singapore government regulates the number of MDWs in Singapore through this levy.

How much is the maid levy?+

The monthly levy is S$300 for the first maid and S$450 for the subsequent maid, each payable for the period that the respective work permit is valid. An employer who is a Singapore citizen qualifies for the S$60 concessionary levy if he/she lives with either a young child below 16 years old, an elderly person who is at least 67 years old, or a person with disabilities (to be certified by a Singapore-registered doctor).

What is the minimum insurance coverage required?+

MOM stipulates that employers need to purchase medical and personal accident insurance for the helpers with an annual claim limit of at least S$60,000.

What is a security bond and how much is it?+

All employers of MDWs are required to post a S$5,000 security bond. The purpose of this bond is to ensure that the employer makes timely salary payments and facilitates the MDW's timely repatriation when her work permit has expired/is revoked or cancelled. The security bond may also be forfeited in full/partially if the employer/the MDW violates any of the work permit or security bond conditions or if the MDW goes missing.

What is an alternative to the S$5,000 security deposit?+

Employers can purchase an insurance policy from BOLTTECH INSURANCE AGENCY PTE. LTD., which is a much cheaper alternative compared to placing a S$5,000 deposit.

Does the maid need to undergo regular medical check up?+

Within 2 weeks from the maid's arrival in Singapore, she must be examined by a Singapore-registered doctor. She can only get her work permit issued and start work at the employer's home after she has passed the pre-employment medical examination and deemed Fit To Work. Otherwise, she will have to be repatriated. Such medical examination, including checks for pregnancy, VDRL, Body Mass Index (BMI) and visible signs of abuse are required every six months, whereas HIV and TB tests are added on upon each maid's 2-year stay in Singapore.

Who is responsible for the maid's medical expenses?+

The employer is fully liable for all the medical expenses of the maid, including hospitalization, outpatient and medical repatriation costs if necessary. As such, it is imperative to have adequate insurance coverage in place.

What to do when maid gets pregnant?+

You might have heard of cases of MDWs getting pregnant. If you notice signs like fatigue, nausea, vomiting, missed periods, or sudden weight gain in your helper, it is best to have an open conversation with your helper. If she confirms that she is pregnant or if you strongly suspect it based on the signs, suggest that she goes for a proper pregnancy test at a clinic. This will give you both clarity on the situation. If the test is positive, you should know that she would have to return home since she will no longer be allowed to work. Take note that her medical insurance does not cover costs related to her pregnancy, which will have to be borne by her employer. In such cases, open and empathetic communication with your MDW is the key. Speak with her compassionately to avoid unnecessary stress and emotional strain for both parties. The employer should inform MOM of the pregnancy and upload a copy of the doctor's memo. MOM will contact the employer within seven working days. Subsequently, the employer should cancel her work permit and purchase an air ticket to repatriate the maid. It is important for the employer to notify MOM when he/she first becomes aware of the pregnancy as failure to do so may result in the forfeiture of the security deposit.

Can I hire a maid on part-time basis?+

No. Under MOM regulations, maids are not permitted to engage in part-time employment.

What are the obligations of the employer to the maid?+

According to MOM's regulations, the employer must ensure the maid: has at least one rest day each month that cannot be compensated away; has one rest day per week for the other weeks in the month for which she may be paid salary in-lieu; has adequate rest and is provided with adequate food and acceptable accommodation (consists adequate shelter, basic amenities, sufficient ventilation, safety, modesty, space and privacy); receives any medical care needed, including hospitalization and six-monthly medical examinations; is able to integrate into the employer's family and her new role; is paid her salary every month, no later than 7 days after the last day of the salary period (not to exceed 1 month); is provided with a safe working environment; is repatriated home with a passage paid by the employer, after giving her reasonable notice and paying her any outstanding salary; is brought before the Controller of Work Passes when required by MOM.

From which countries can I hire a maid from if I engage Epone Manpower?+

We recruit maids from Indonesia, Myanmar, the Philippines and India (Mizoram).

Can EP One Manpower assist with passport and work permit renewals?+

Our Passport Renewal Assistance, where we handle the entire process, ensuring the maid's travel documents are always up-to-date. During the times your helper is here with you, make sure your helper's passport remains valid (with at least 6 months' validity). Here, we prioritize the details, allowing you to focus on an uninterrupted partnership with your trusted household helper.

How do I apply for GIRO bank account for levy payment?+

You can use this link to apply: https://www.mom.gov.sg/faq/work-pass-general/how-do-i-apply-for-giro-bank-account-for-my-levy-payment

Do I need to attend any course if I am a 1st time employing a maid?+

Yes. You need to attend an online EOP course if you have not employed a maid before. The course is available in English, Chinese, Malay and Tamil. Use this link to enroll using employer Singpass: www.eop.com.sg

Which nationality of helper is better?+

Each nationality has its own merits and weaknesses. However it depends more on an individual's experience level, family background, educational level, stress level, ability to learn, whether is a fast learner or takes a longer time to comprehend certain instructions. Case-to-case depending on the need. For instance, MDW for children in younger age, we recommend a more active, more energetic, more cheerful nature MDW to care, to mingle and play with the kids. For elderly care, we recommend one with a better height and weight to support elderly's movement. Occasionally we do have employers that request a "good cook" as they are more particular about their meal. In such cases, we have to source for one that is good at cooking, and willing to learn more from recipe books. For newborn baby care, especially when the mother is not able to spend more time to coach the MDW, no compromise, we have to recommend an experienced maid, with related baby care experiences to start off. Contact us and our friendly staff can better understand your needs and help you match with a suitable helper.

Who is eligible to work as Migrant domestic worker(MDW) in Singapore?+

To be granted a work permit, domestic workers must fulfill the followings: female; between 23 and 50 years old; from approved nations (the Philippines, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Macau, Malaysia, Myanmar, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand); have at least eight years of formal education. Note that to be an employer, there are a number of requirements you must meet, such as earning a minimum salary (in most cases). These requirements are in place partly to ensure that you are adequately able to care for your worker and pay her salary on time. In addition, helpers must: Work at employers' NRIC-registered addresses; Attend the Settling-in Programme (SIP) if they are first-time helpers. MOM will inform employers if their helpers need to attend the SIP in the Work Permit in-principle approval (IPA) letter; Not be related to their employers; Not be in Singapore during the Work Permit application. Employers can only bring helpers into Singapore after they have received an IPA letter and bought a $5,000 security bond.

Can I hire a second MDW?+

You may be able to hire a second migrant domestic worker (MDW) if you meet any of the following criteria: You or your spouse is at least 60 years old; You have at least 2 children below 18 years old and living with you; You have a parent or parent-in-law who is at least 60 years old and living with you. MOM will also consider your financial ability to hire, maintain and upkeep the helpers in an acceptable accommodation. You also need to provide sufficient privacy and sleeping space in the house for the 2 MDWs. To apply for the second MDW, submit a Work Permit application and provide the relevant information: A copy of the children's birth certificates; A copy of the parent's or parent-in-law's identity cards and the employer's or spouse's birth certificate. Each household can hire up to 2 MDWs.

What is the maximum number of years an MDW can work for the same employer?+

There is no maximum number of years a migrant domestic worker (MDW) can work for the same employer. However, the maximum age that the MDW can work in Singapore is generally 60 years old.

Still have questions?

Contact us →