Hiring a Maid in Singapore: Full Guide in 2025

Last Updated:22 April 2025

Hiring a Foreign Domestic Worker (FDW), or maid, in Singapore can be a helpful solution for families with young children, elderly dependents, or busy schedules. This comprehensive 2025 guide walks you through each step of the process — from deciding how to hire, to applying for work permits and understanding your responsibilities as an employer.

Step 1: Decide Between Agency or Direct Hire

Agency Hiring: Most employers choose to go through a licensed Employment Agency (EA) which helps with screening, documentation, and permits. The average agency fee in Singapore ranges from $1,000 to $3,000, depending on the services and maid's country of origin.

Direct Hiring: This option allows you to recruit a maid on your own (often a transfer maid or someone you already know). While it can save on agency fees, it involves more work including paperwork, interviews, and MOM submissions.

Step 2: Select a Suitable Maid

Key considerations include:

Experience: Has she worked in Singapore or other countries before?
Language: Can she communicate in English or your household's preferred language?
Skills: Is she familiar with childcare, elderly care, or housework?
Personality fit: Interview candidates and speak to their previous employers, if possible.

Step 3: Complete the Employer Orientation Programme (EOP)

If this is your first time hiring an FDW, MOM requires you to complete the Employer Orientation Programme (EOP) — a 3-hour course that costs around $35–$60. You can complete it:

Online: Through authorized MOM e-learning providers
In-person: At designated training centers

Exemptions are granted for employers who have hired FDWs in the past or have special caregiving needs.

Step 4: Submit Work Permit Application

Apply through the MOM FDW eService. Documents needed include:

Copy of maid's passport and biodata
Employer and household details
Proof of income or CPF contribution

Processing time: Typically 1–2 weeks
Application fee: $35

Step 5: Purchase Medical Insurance, Personal Accident Insurance, and Security Bond

Before your maid arrives, purchase the required coverage:

Medical insurance: Minimum $60,000/year
Personal accident insurance: Minimum $60,000 coverage
Security bond: $5,000 for non-Malaysian maids (refundable if conditions are met)

These are available in packages from major insurers like NTUC Income, Great Eastern, and MSIG.

Step 6: Prepare for the Maid's Arrival

Provide your maid with the In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter, which she must present at immigration.

First-time FDWs must attend the Settling-In Programme (SIP) — a one-day orientation class that covers safety, cultural expectations, and rights in Singapore.

As an employer, prepare accommodation, food, basic necessities, and ensure she has privacy and comfort.

Step 7: Complete Medical Examination and Issue Work Permit

Within 14 days of arrival, the FDW must undergo a medical examination (including pregnancy and infectious disease screening). Once cleared:

The Work Permit will be issued by MOM
You will receive a physical card by post
Biometric registration will be completed if required

Step 8: Understand and Fulfill Employer Responsibilities

As a domestic employer, your ongoing responsibilities include:

Monthly levy: $300 (standard) or $60 (if eligible for levy concession)
Salary: Typically ranges from $550 to $800, depending on experience and nationality
Rest days: At least 1 day off per week. If she agrees to work on a rest day, compensation must be paid
Medical care: Pay for non-insured medical expenses
Safe environment: No abusive or dangerous conditions; provide fair treatment
Repatriation: You must arrange and pay for return travel when the contract ends

Step 9: Consider Ongoing Training and Relationship Building

Encourage your maid to attend voluntary training programs offered by AIDHA, FAST, or community centers to build skills and adapt to Singaporean life. Open communication, regular feedback, and appreciation go a long way in fostering a positive working relationship.

Useful Resources

With proper planning and understanding, hiring a maid in Singapore can significantly ease household responsibilities and provide peace of mind for families. Ensure that both you and your FDW are protected under clear terms and mutual respect.