For many Singapore families, hiring a migrant domestic worker (MDW) — commonly called a maid or helper — is what makes a busy household work. Whether you need support with young children, ageing parents, or simply the daily demands of running a home, a good helper can make an enormous difference. But the process involves real responsibilities, paperwork and costs, so it pays to understand it before you begin.
1. Check that you're eligible to employ a helper
Before anything else, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) sets eligibility criteria for employers. In general, you'll need to be at least 21 years old, not be an undischarged bankrupt, and have the mental capacity to understand and fulfil your responsibilities as an employer. MOM also assesses your ability to maintain and pay a helper, often considering household income.
If you're hiring to care for young children or elderly family members, you may qualify for concessions such as the Levy Concession, which reduces the monthly foreign domestic worker levy. A good agency will help you check what you qualify for.
2. Decide what kind of help your family needs
Helpers come with different strengths. Some are experienced in infant and childcare; others excel at elderly care, cooking, or managing a large household. Being clear about your priorities from the start makes matching far more successful. Ask yourself:
- What are the main duties — childcare, eldercare, cooking, cleaning, or a mix?
- Do you need someone with specific experience, such as caring for an infant or a bedridden elderly person?
- Are there language preferences that matter in your home?
- What's your monthly budget for salary, levy and upkeep?
We explore how to weigh these factors in our guide on choosing the right helper for your family.
3. Choose a licensed employment agency
You can hire either through a licensed employment agency or via direct hire. For most first-time employers, a reputable agency is the safer, simpler route. A licensed agency handles the matching, paperwork and government submissions, and guides you through your obligations.
Always check that the agency holds a valid MOM licence. Psalm 23 Employment Agency, for example, is licensed under MOM Licence No. 25C2741. A trustworthy agency will also be transparent about fees and won't pressure you into a quick decision. Learn more about what to look for in an agency.
4. Select and interview candidates
Once your agency understands your needs, they'll shortlist suitable candidates. Take the interviews seriously — they're your best opportunity to gauge experience, communication and temperament. Ask about previous roles, why they left, how they'd handle specific situations in your home, and their comfort with the duties involved. Interviews can usually be conducted in person or virtually.
A careful match at this stage prevents the vast majority of problems later. Don't rush it — a good agency won't push you to.
5. Complete the paperwork and work permit application
After you've chosen a helper, several administrative steps follow. Your agency typically manages these for you:
- Work Permit application — submitted to MOM. Approval is usually quick once documents are in order.
- Security bond and insurance — a banker's guarantee (for non-Malaysian helpers) plus the mandatory medical insurance and personal accident insurance.
- Settling-in Programme (SIP) — required for first-time helpers, covering safety and adjustment to working in Singapore.
- Medical examination — a required check-up at an approved clinic after arrival.
You can read the full breakdown in our Cost of Hiring a Helper page, with more context in our maid agency costs guide.
6. Welcome your helper and settle in
Once the Work Permit is issued and formalities are complete, your helper can begin. The first few weeks are an adjustment period for everyone. Be clear and patient about house rules, routines and expectations, and give your helper time to learn your family's rhythm. A respectful, communicative start sets the tone for a long, positive working relationship.
How long does the whole process take?
Timelines vary. If you hire a transfer helper already in Singapore, placement can take as little as one to two weeks. For a helper coming from overseas, the full process — including the Work Permit, travel and medical — typically takes around four to six weeks. Your agency can give you a clearer estimate based on your situation.
Your ongoing responsibilities as an employer
Hiring is just the beginning. As an employer you're responsible for paying the monthly levy, providing adequate food and accommodation, ensuring a weekly rest day (or compensation in lieu), buying and renewing insurance, and treating your helper fairly and respectfully. Work Permits also need to be renewed, and a good agency will remind you and handle the process.
Let Psalm 23 guide you
Hiring a helper is a big decision, but it doesn't have to be stressful. As a MOM-licensed agency, Psalm 23 Employment Agency takes care of the matching, paperwork and government submissions — and stays with you long after placement. We specialise in Indonesian and Myanmar helpers and pride ourselves on honest advice, transparent fees and no hidden costs.
Ready to start? Get in touch for a free, no-obligation consultation.