Eligibility to Hire a Domestic Helper in Singapore

Understanding the regulations and requirements is crucial before you embark on the process of hiring a domestic helper. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of what you need to know to determine your eligibility.

Eligibility Criteria:

1. Minimum Income Requirement: To hire a helper in Singapore, you must meet the income threshold set by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). MOM doesn’t publish a specific income amount, but generally, the minimum income is 3000.00 SGD per month and the employer cannot be an undischarged bankrupt
2. Age and Nationality Restrictions: Employers should be at least 21 years old, with no specific nationality restrictions, but must be Singapore residents ( including Employment Pass, S Pass and Dependent Pass holders).
3. Mental Health: Have a clear understanding and ability to perform your role as an employer.
4. Others: MOM will also take into account your needs for caregiving (such as for young children or elderly relatives) and your financial capacity to hire, support, and provide suitable living conditions for the helper.
   

Legal Obligations:

• EOP: 1st-time employers of domestic helpers in Singapore are required to attend the Employer’s Orientation Programme
• Work Permit Process: The process of hiring a helper in Singapore involves obtaining a work permit, which requires fulfilling several criteria and submitting the necessary documentation.
• Employer’s Responsibilities: As an employer, you are responsible for the medical, safety, and overall well-being of your domestic helper.
• Insurance: Employers are required to purchase Medical and Personal Accident Insurance of at least 60,000.00 SGD per year each.

Financial Considerations

• Levy and Bond: When you hire a maid in Singapore, you are required to pay a monthly levy and provide a security bond. The security bond is typically purchased together with the helper’s insurance, which can be forfeited if either party breaches the law or the conditions governing the employment of the helper.
• Insurance Requirements: Employers must also purchase medical and personal accident insurance for their domestic helper. This insurance is crucial to cover any medical expenses that may arise and ensure the helper’s well-being during their employment in Singapore.
• Salary and Benefits: The salary and benefits for domestic helpers should be fair and in line with MOM’s guidelines.
• Upkeep cost: Employers are required to provide the worker 3 full meals a day, toiletries and basic amenities like mattresses, blankets, and pillows.

FAQs Section:

• Can expatriates hire domestic helpers in Singapore? Yes, expatriates are eligible to hire maids in Singapore, subject to the same eligibility criteria.
• What if I no longer need my domestic helper’s services? Employers must handle termination of employment responsibly, generally by providing 1 month’s notice or payment in lieu. the employer must also ensure the helper’s safe return home or by mutually agreeing to transfer the worker to a new employer.
• Ensuring Compliance with Labor Laws: Staying informed about MOM’s guidelines is crucial for compliance when hiring a helper in Singapore.

Conclusion: Hiring a maid in Singapore involves understanding specific regulations, criteria, and financial obligations, including insurance and security bond requirements. By meeting these requirements, you can ensure a smooth and legal process in acquiring domestic help.

Call to Action: For more information and assistance in hiring a helper in Singapore, reach out to Goodhire, we have helped thousands of Singapore families with the hiring process.