Hiring a Maid in Singapore: Complete Guide to Costs and Salary (2025)

Hiring a maid (Foreign Domestic Worker, FDW) in Singapore can greatly ease your household burdens – from cleaning to caring for young children or elderly parents. However, it’s important to understand all the costs involved in hiring a maid in Singapore, not just the monthly salary. This comprehensive guide breaks down the maid’s salary in Singapore, along with the various fees, levies, and one-time expenses you should budget for. We’ll also cover working conditions (like rest days) and some tips to manage or reduce costs.

Overview: What Does It Cost to Hire a Maid in Singapore? 

In general, you should be prepared for two types of expenses when hiring a domestic helper in Singapore: upfront one-time costs (such as agency fees, work permit paperwork, etc.) and recurring costs (monthly salary, government levy, living expenses, insurance, etc.). These can add up significantly, so it’s wise to estimate your budget before making the commitment.

While it’s technically possible to hire a maid directly, the vast majority of households in Singapore choose to go through a licensed maid agency. And for good reason: agencies streamline the entire process, from finding qualified helpers to handling paperwork, Work Permit applications, training, and even replacements. Although there is an agency fee involved, most employers find it worthwhile given the convenience, legal compliance, and post-placement support.

Maid’s Salary in Singapore 

Monthly salary is the largest ongoing cost. Singapore does not impose a fixed minimum wage for FDWs, but the helpers’ home countries often set their own minimum salaries as guidelines. As of 2025, the typical minimum salaries by nationality are approximately:

• Myanmar – $500–$800

• Sri Lanka – $500–$800

• Indonesia – $550-$800

• Philippines – $600 to $850

In practice, salaries vary depending on the helper’s experience, language skills, caregiving background, and whether they’re new or transferring from another employer. Transfer maids in Singapore often command higher pay due to their experience and immediate availability. It’s not uncommon for experienced helpers to earn S$700 to S$1,000 per month.

Hiring through an agency allows you to clearly understand the market rate, compare candidates fairly, and set expectations upfront. A good maid agency can advise you on competitive salaries while helping you select a helper who fits your needs and budget.

Monthly Maid Levy (Government Levy) 

Employers must pay a monthly levy to the government for each maid hired. As of 2025:

• Standard levy (first maid): S$300

• Additional maid: S$450

• Concessionary levy (if eligible): S$60

Many families qualify for the S$60 concessionary levy if they live with a Singaporean child under 16, a senior citizen aged 67 or above, or a person with disabilities.

For a more detailed breakdown of the current rates, eligibility criteria, and how to apply, check out our full guide to the maid levy in Singapore.

Recurring Living Costs 

In addition to salary and levy, employers are responsible for the maid’s living costs:

• Food & utilities: Around S$150–S$200/month

• Transport & phone bills: Around S$100/month

• Medical expenses: Outpatient visits, 6-monthly checkups (S$50/checkup)

• Rest day compensation: If any rest day is worked, compensation of at least one day’s wage is required per MOM guidelines.

Maid Insurance 

Before hiring, you must purchase maid insurance that includes:

• S$60,000/year medical coverage

• S$60,000 personal accident coverage

• S$5,000 security bond (often included via Letter of Guarantee)

Insurance plans vary in price depending on coverage. Expect to pay between $500 to $750 for a 2-year plan. Your maid agency can help you choose a plan that meets MOM requirements.

One-Time Costs 

If hiring through an agency, expect the following initial costs:

• Agency fee: S$1,000 to S$3,000 (covers paperwork, sourcing, interviews, etc.)

• Work permit application & issuance: S$70

• Settling-In Programme (for first-time maids): S$75

• Employer Orientation Programme (for first-time employers): S$35–S$60

• Airfare & medical check: Typically covered in the agency package

Working with a reputable maid agency ensures that your helper has been properly vetted, trained, and matched to your household needs. It also means you’ll get guidance on employment laws, expectations, and paperwork.

Sample Monthly Budget 

Here’s an estimate of typical monthly costs (for one helper):

• Maid’s salary: S$600

• Levy (concessionary): S$60

• Living expenses: S$250

• Insurance (annualised): S$20/month

• Rest day compensation (optional): S$40 Total: ~S$970/month

Tips to Save Costs

• Apply for levy concession early if eligible

• Consider helpers with experience but manageable salary expectations

• Avoid frequent turnovers to reduce rehiring costs

• Work with a transparent maid agency in Singapore that provides fair pricing and support

Final Thoughts 

Hiring a maid in Singapore is a big decision—but for many families, it’s a worthwhile investment in time, convenience, and peace of mind. While the costs may seem high at first, a well-matched and well-supported helper can become a trusted part of your home.

If you’re considering getting a helper, our team at Helpers Inc. is here to assist. From matching and paperwork to post-placement support, our maid agency services are designed to give you a smooth and reliable hiring experience.

Whether you need help with childcare, elderlycare, or general housekeeping, reach out to us for personalised advice and access to trained, experienced domestic helpers.