Criteria to Hire a Maid in Singapore: Employer's Complete Checklist

Hiring a maid, officially known as a Migrant Domestic Worker (MDW), in Singapore involves specific criteria set by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). Understanding these criteria is crucial to ensuring a smooth hiring process and maintaining compliance with local regulations. Here’s your complete guide to hiring a maid in Singapore.

Employer Eligibility Requirements

Before hiring a maid, ensure you meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Age and Financial Status: You must be at least 21 years old and financially capable of employing a maid. 

• Mental Capacity: You must have the mental capacity to understand and fulfill your responsibilities as an employer.

• Bankruptcy Status: You cannot be an undischarged bankrupt.

Requirements for First-Time Employers

If you're hiring a maid for the first time, you are required to complete the Employer Orientation Programme (EOP). This mandatory course educates employers about their roles and responsibilities, ensuring they are fully prepared before applying for a maid's Work Permit.

Maid (MDW) Eligibility Criteria

The maid you hire must meet MOM’s specified criteria:

• Age: She must be between 23 and 50 years old at the time of application.

• Nationality: MOM-approved countries include the Philippines, Indonesia, Myanmar, India, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.

• Education: She must have completed at least 8 years of formal education.

Financial Obligations of Hiring a Maid

As an employer, you must be ready to fulfill certain financial responsibilities, including:

• Monthly Salary: Typically ranges from SGD 480 to SGD 850, depending on experience and nationality.

• Monthly Levy: You must pay a monthly levy of SGD 300 to MOM. Reduced rates of SGD 60 per month apply if you have young children, elderly family members, or disabled persons in your household.

• Security Bond: A security bond of SGD 5,000 is required for all non-Malaysian maids.

• Insurance Coverage: Employers must provide medical and personal accident insurance for the maid, as mandated by MOM.

Key Responsibilities as an Employer

When hiring a maid, your responsibilities go beyond financial obligations:

• Work Permit Application: You must apply for and maintain your maid’s valid Work Permit.

• Accommodation and Well-being: Provide suitable accommodation, sufficient food, and ensure her general welfare.

• Medical Examinations: Schedule and ensure attendance at mandatory medical checks every six months.

• Rest Days: Maids are entitled to one rest day per week. If they work during this rest day, they must be compensated with additional pay.

Conclusion

Adhering to these criteria to hire a maid in Singapore helps ensure legal compliance, promotes harmonious relationships, and contributes positively to your household. To simplify the hiring process and ensure all regulations and paperwork are correctly managed, consider engaging a reputable maid agency. A trusted maid agency can guide you through every step, saving you valuable time and effort while providing you with reliable and suitable candidates tailored to your family's needs. Contact us now to get started on finding your ideal maid today!