FAQs

To hire an FDW, you must be at least 21 years old, not an undischarged bankrupt, and possess the mental capacity to understand and fulfill the responsibilities of an employer. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) will also assess your financial ability to support the FDW, including providing acceptable accommodation.

The standard monthly levy for an FDW is S$300. However, if you have a child below 16 years old, an elderly family member aged 67 or above, or a person with disabilities living with you, you may qualify for a concessionary levy of S$60. Levy payments should be made via GIRO.

Your FDW is entitled to one rest day per week. You and your FDW must mutually agree on which day of the week she should take the rest day. If your FDW agrees to work on her rest day, you must compensate her with at least one day's salary. However, you must ensure that your FDW has at least one rest day per month that cannot be compensated away. ​

You must offer your helper a safe, well-ventilated, and private space with basic amenities like a bed, pillow, and access to toiletries. She should not sleep in the same room as an adult male or be placed in unsafe areas (e.g. near machinery or storage). If you use CCTV, inform her and avoid cameras in private areas like bedrooms or bathrooms.

If your FDW becomes pregnant during her employment, you must inform MOM immediately. Depending on the circumstances, MOM may require the FDW to return to her home country. It's important to handle such situations with sensitivity and in accordance with MOM guidelines. ​

As an employer, you're expected to provide your helper with timely salary payments, adequate and suitable food, insurance coverage, medical care (including hospitalization), and a safe and conducive working environment.

Yes, if you're a married woman who has elected for separate assessment, or if you're married and your spouse is not residing in Singapore, or if you're separated, divorced, or widowed and living with your unmarried child for whom you can claim child relief, you can claim tax relief. The relief is double the amount of the paid levy for one maid and can only be set off against the earned income of the wife. ​

Your helper can send funds home through services like Western Union, which is available at selected post offices within Singapore. It's one of the fastest and most efficient methods of sending money across the globe. ​

The SIP is a one-day orientation programme that first-time FDWs must attend within the first seven days of their arrival in Singapore. It covers topics like adapting to life in Singapore, employment conditions, safety, and relationship management. Employers are responsible for ensuring their FDWs attend this programme. ​

Open communication is key. If disputes arise, try to discuss the issues calmly and understand each other's perspectives. If the dispute cannot be resolved privately, you can seek assistance from the Centre for Domestic Employees (CDE) or the Association of Employment Agencies (Singapore) for mediation services. ​