How to Hire a Maid or Helper in Singapore! Costs, Fees & Procedures Explained

Hiring a helper in Singapore involves more than just paying a salary. Since it’s a long-term commitment, it’s essential to understand all associated costs and budget accordingly.

Below is a breakdown of the main expenses you should prepare for:

1️⃣ Employer Orientation Program (EOP) Fee 🎓

First-time employers in Singapore must attend the Employer Orientation Program (EOP) to learn about a helper’s rights and management responsibilities. It can be taken online or in person.

💡 Estimated Cost: SGD 35 – SGD 60

2️⃣ Agency Fees 🏢

Most employers hire helpers through MOM (Ministry of Manpower) accredited agencies. Agencies handle the selection, interviews, paperwork, visa application, and travel arrangements.

Estimated Cost: SGD 3,000 – SGD 4,000 (installment payment options available)
Affordable Option: Bali Nanny Agency in Singapore  – SGD 700

3️⃣ Helper’s Salary 💵

The monthly salary depends on nationality and experience. The 2025 estimated minimum wages are:

✅ Philippines 🇵🇭 – SGD 620 (~JPY 49,600)
✅ Indonesia 🇮🇩 – SGD 600 (~JPY 48,000)
✅ Sri Lanka 🇱🇰 – SGD 547 (~JPY 43,760)
✅ Myanmar 🇲🇲 – SGD 500 (~JPY 40,000)

💡 Note: More experienced helpers may demand higher salaries.

　　　　For those looking to hire the most popular Indonesian helpers in Singapore, click here.

4️⃣ Foreign Worker Levy (Government Tax) 🏛️

Employers in Singapore must pay a Foreign Worker Levy (FWL) to the government. However, levy discounts are available if the helper is caring for a Singaporean citizen (elderly or disabled family member).

💡 Estimated Cost:

• Standard Levy: SGD 300 – SGD 450 per month

• Discounted Levy (for eligible employers): SGD 60 per month

5️⃣ Security Bond for helper in Singapore🔒

Employers must deposit a security bond of SGD 5,000 with the Singapore government. This deposit may be forfeited if the helper violates the contract, overstays illegally, or fails to complete the return procedures.

💡 Note: As long as the employer follows the proper procedures set by MOM, the security bond will be refunded.

6️⃣ Insurance 🏥

Employers are required to provide medical and accident insurance for their helper.

💡 Estimated Cost: SGD 250 – SGD 400 per year
✅ Medical Insurance: Minimum coverage of SGD 15,000
✅ Accident Insurance: Minimum coverage of SGD 60,000

7️⃣ Helper’s Food & Living Expenses 🍽️

Since most helpers live with their employers, food, household items, and other living expenses are typically covered by the employer.

💡 Estimated Cost: SGD 200 – SGD 300 per month

8️⃣ Medical Expenses & Health Checkups 🏥

Helpers are required to undergo a medical checkup every six months to continue working in Singapore.

💡 Estimated Cost: SGD 60 – SGD 100 per checkup

9️⃣ Helper’s Travel Expenses ✈️

The cost of the helper’s initial travel to Singapore is usually covered by the employment agency, but employers must reimburse the agency. Upon contract completion, the employer is responsible for purchasing the return ticket for the helper.

💡 Estimated Cost:
✅ One-way airfare (upon employment): SGD 200 – SGD 500
✅ Return airfare (upon contract completion): SGD 200 – SGD 500