If you’ve got any questions related to hiring a foreign domestic worker, read on below for answers to some of the most common ones we’ve already been asked. If you can’t find an answer, feel free to contact us.

Caring Caregivers will arrange a consultation to understand your needs in hiring a domestic helper. We will then arrange for an interview with the helper.

1. Interview with our domestic helper

2. Selection of domestic helper

3. Processing of In-Principle Approval

4. Processing of Employment Contract (to be legalized by the Indonesian Embassy (KBRI Singapura)

5. Processing of helper (In Indonesia, there are certain procedures that must be completed before the domestic helper could fly) (Refer to FAQ: Legal Processing of Helpers in Indonesia)

6. Helper arrives in Singapore, followed by administration from Caring Caregivers such as: Medical Check Up, processing of work permit and hand over to employer.

Ethical recruitment is our way of recruiting helpers without the use of unethical agents who charge heavy sponsorship fees to the domestic helper for helping them find a job overseas.

We aim to end modern-day slavery by encouraging ethical recruitment and hiring.

With  ethical recruitment, we help the domestic helper work in Singapore without being burdened by their sponsorship debt (often known as the 6-8 months of advanced loan that is paid to the sponsor), allowing our domestic helpers to focus on the job and less on the debt.

Ethical recruitment allows us (as the agency and the employer) to help end modern-day slavery. This means that our domestic helpers are no longer burdened by the debt of 6-8 months (in which they only obtain overtime salary of approximately SGD 100).

By doing so, our domestic helpers are more focused on helping the employer with their household chores, caregiving or child care rather than worrying about their own families not having enough back in their homes.

Our domestic helpers have proven that ethical recruitment greatly increases our retention rates as helpers want to work longer in Singapore.

With a well-matched helper, our employers enjoy employing our helpers who work better with no debt to worry about.

At Caring Caregivers, we have a strict selection and interview process before domestic helpers are admitted into our training center.

We check their identities which includes their legal documents and school qualifications before allowing them to train in our training center. Our Indonesian counterpart will then process them at the local government office to sign a placement agreement between the helper and our company.

In Singapore, according to the law and regulations, individuals who are eligible to hire a foreign domestic worker (helper or caregiver) must fall into one of the following categories:

  1. Singapore Citizens: Singaporean citizens who are residing in the country and require assistance with household and caregiving duties can hire a foreign domestic worker (FDW).
  2. Permanent Residents: Individuals who hold permanent residency status in Singapore and have a need for domestic help can also hire a foreign domestic worker.
  3. Employment Pass (EP) Holder: Individuals who are foreign professionals working in Singapore. Generally, EP holders are eligible to hire a foreign domestic worker if they meet the certain criteria, such as having a minimum monthly salary and demonstrating the need for a foreign domestic worker due to work commitments and long working hours.
  4. S Pass Holder: S Pass Holders are mid-skilled foreign workers in Singapore. Similar to Employment Pass holders, S Pass Holders can hire a foreign domestic worker if they meet a minimum monthly salary and the need for domestic assistance due to work obligations.
  5. Dependent Pass Holder: Dependant Pass (DP) Holders are family members of individuals working in Singapore on Employment Pass, S Pass, or EntrePass. DP Holders may be eligible to hire a foreign domestic worker if they can demonstrate the need for domestic assistance, such as caring for children or elderly family members.
  6. EntrePass Holder: EntrePass holders are foreign entrepreneurs who want to start and operate a business in Singapore. In some cases, EntrePass holders may be eligible to hire a foreign domestic worker if they meet specific criteria related to their business and can show a genuine need for domestic help.

It’s important to note that while these categories generally outline who can hire a helper or caregiver in Singapore, the eligibility criteria and requirements can vary, and there might be additional conditions that need to be met. It’s recommended to refer to the official guidelines provided by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) or consult with us directly to ensure accurate and up-to-date information before proceeding to hire a maid. 

A transfer maid in Singapore refers to a foreign domestic worker (FDW) who is already in Singapore and has been working for another employer, but is looking to transfer to a new employer. This is also known as a “transfer helper.” Transfer maids are individuals who have completed their contracts with their previous employers or have been released from their contracts for various reasons.

When hiring a transfer maid, employers need to adhere to the relevant regulations and procedures set by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) in Singapore. These procedures involve transferring the work permit of the maid from the previous employer to the new employer, ensuring that the new employment contract and terms are in accordance with Singaporean laws.

It’s important for both employers and the FDW to be aware of their rights and responsibilities, as well as the specific terms of the transfer arrangement. This helps to ensure a smooth transition for both parties and a positive working relationship.

In Singapore, according to the law and regulations, foreign domestic workers (FDW), are required to undergo specific medical checks. These medical checks aim to ensure the health and well-being of both the helper and the household members. Here are the typical medical checks that helper must go through:

  1. Pre-Employment Medical Examination  (PEME): Before foreign domestic workers (FDW) can start working in Singapore, they must undergo a Pre-Employment Medical Examination (PEME) in their home country. The PEME includes tests for infectious diseases, such as tuberculosis and HIV, as well as general health assessment.
  2. Six-Monthly Medical Examination: After arriving in Singapore, FDWs are required to undergo a medical examination every six months to ensure their continued health. These examinations also include tests for infectious diseases.
  3. Medical Insurance: Employers are required to purchase medical insurance for their FDWs to cover medical expenses, including hospitalization and outpatient treatments. The insurance coverage must meet the minimum  requirements set by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).

You’re welcome to Contact Caring Caregivers for assistance if you are experiencing an ongoing problem with your helper or caregiver. We provide counseling and mediation services for both employers and the helper or caregiver.

Foreign Domestic Workers in Singapore can send money home to their families using various methods. Here are some common options available:

  • Remittance Centers: There are several remittance centers and agencies in Singapore that specialize in helping FDWs send money back to their home countries. These centers often have partnerships with banks and money transfer companies in different countries, making it easier for FDWs to transfer funds to their families.
  • Banks: Some banks in Singapore offer international money transfer services that allow FDWs to send money to their home country. Some banks also offer international remittance services, which can be a convenient option.
  • Mobile Apps: Some remittance agencies have mobile apps that allow FDWs to initiate money transfers conveniently from their smartphones. These apps may also offer promotions and discounts on transfer fees
  • ATMs: If FDWs have a bank account with an international branch, they can use ATMs to withdraw cash and send it to their families directly. Be aware of ATM fees and currency conversion charges.
  • Post Offices: Singapore Post offers international remittance services through its branches. FDWs can visit a local post office to send money to their home countries.
  • e-Wallets: Some e-wallets in Singapore, like GrabPay and YouTrip, offer the option to send money internationally. FDWs can explore these options if they have such e-wallets.
  • Prepaid Cards: FDWs can consider using prepaid cards that allow international money transfers.These cards may have partnerships with remittance services or international banks.
  • Online Money Transfer Services: There are several online money transfer services available, such as TransferWise (now Wise), Revolut, and Remitly, which allow users to send money internationally. FDWs can create accounts on these platforms and transfer money online.

Before choosing a method, FDWs should consider factors like transfer fees, exchange rates, transfer speed, and the convenience of the service. It’s also important to use reputable and regulated remittance providers to ensure the security of their transactions. Additionally, they should be aware of any documentation or identification requirements, especially when sending large sums of money.

As an employer of a helper or caregiver, you have several responsibilities to ensure the well-being and fair treatment of the individual you’ve hired. These responsibilities can vary depending on your location and the specific regulations in place, but here are some common responsibilities

  • Provide a Safe and Healthy Environment: You are responsible for providing a safe and healthy living working environment for your helper or caregiver. This includes ensuring proper accommodation, cleanliness, and adequate living.
  • Fair Treatment and Respect: Treat your helper or caregiver with respect and fairness. They should not be subjected to physical or emotional abuse, discrimination, or harassment.
  • Payment and Benefits: Pay your helper or caregiver the agreed-upon wages promptly and fairly. Ensure that you provide the necessary benefits as required by laws such as days off, medical care, and other entitlements.
  • Working Hours and Rest Days: Adhere to agreed-upon working hours and rest days. Helpers and caregivers are entitled to regular breaks and days off to rest and recharge.
  • Medical Care: Provide necessary medical care and treatment if your helper or caregiver falls ill or requires medical attention. Some regions may require you to provide health insurance for them.
  • Clear Communication: Maintain open and clear communication with your helper or caregiver. Discuss their duties, expectations, and any concerns they may have
  • Guidance and Support: Provide training and guidance to help your helper or caregiver perform their tasks effectively. If they are responsible for caregiving, ensure they are adequately trained to handle any special needs or conditions
  • Documentation and Contracts: Keep all necessary documentation and contracts in order, including their employment contract, work permit, and any relevant identification documents
  • Termination and Notice: If you need to terminate the employment relationship, follow the appropriate legal procedures and provide proper notice as required by law

The levy for hiring a maid in Singapore depends on various factors, including the nationality of the maid and whether she is a first time or a repeat hire. According to the last update in September 2021, the monthly levy for hiring a foreign domestic worker (FDW) as a maid, helper or caregiver in Singapore also varies depending on the employer’s circumstances. These are the breakdown:

  • Basic Monthly Levy: The basic monthly levy for a foreign domestic worker ranges from $60 to $265, depending on the employer’s residency status and the number of domestic workers they employ. Singaporean households with no other foreign domestic workers pay $60 for the first domestic worker and $265 for the second and subsequent workers. For non-Singaporean households, the levy is $300 for the first domestic worker and $450 for the second and subsequent workers.
  • Concessionary Levy: Families with young children, elderly family members, or family members with disabilities may be eligible for a concessionary levy. This typically ranges from $0 to $60, again depending on the employer’s residency status and the number of domestic workers they employ.
  • Levy Waivers: In certain cases, employers may be eligible for levy waiver due to circumstances such as the maid being on Home Leave, hospitalization leave, or other specific situations.

Yes, there are maid levy concessions available for certain households. These concessions are designed to provide financial relief to families who are taking care of young children, elderly family members, or family members with disabilities. Here’s an overview of the eligibility criteria for maid levy concessions:

  • Young Children Concession: Families with young children who are Singapore citizens can apply for this concession. To be eligible, you typically need to have at least one child below the age of 16 living with you. The age limit and specific criteria may vary, you can always check with us for the most up-to-date information.
  • Elderly Persons Concession: Families with elderly family members who require assistance with activities of daily living can also apply for this concession. The elderly person should be at least 67 years old and a Singaporean citizen. The specific requirements and criteria may vary.
  • Persons with Disabilities Concession: Families caring for a family member with disabilities can apply for this concession. The disabled family member should be a Singaporean citizen and require assistance with activities of daily living. Like other concessions, the criteria may vary, so it’s recommended to verify with us or with the relevant authorities.

It’s important to note that each concession comes with its own set of eligibility requirements and application procedures. These concessions can significantly reduce the monthly maid levy that families need to pay. 

Yes, it is mandatory for employers in Singapore to purchase medical insurance for their foreign domestic workers (maids/helpers). This insurance covers medical expenses, hospitalization,and other healthcare-related costs that the domestic worker may incur during their employment period.

The Ministry of Manpower(MOM) in Singapore has set a minimum requirement for the medical insurance coverage, which includes:

  • Medical Expenses: The insurance should cover outpatient medical treatment and hospitalization expenses for the domestic worker. This is to ensure that your maid receives appropriate medical care in case of illness or injury.
  • Personal Accident Coverage: The insurance policy should also provide  coverage for accidental injuries, disabilities, and death arising from accidents.
  • Security Bond: In addition to medical insurance, employers are also required to purchase a security bond. The bond serves as a financial guarantee to ensure that the domestic worker is entitled to proper employment conditions and protection under Singapore’s labor laws.