FAQ On Work Permit for Migrant Domestic Worker (MDW)

Are MDWs covered under the Work Injury Compensation Act?

No. Migrant domestic workers (MDWs) are not covered under Work Injury Compensation Act (WICA) because they live and work close to their employers in the same premises, making it difficult to determine whether any injury sustained in the premises was due to work-related activities. However, employers are required to buy personal accident insurance (PAI) for MDWs to provide them compensation in the event of death or permanent disability during their stay in Singapore.

Are foreigners who bring in their own FDWs required to attend the Employers’ Orientation Programme?

Yes. Attending the Employers’ Orientation Programme (EOP) is required as long as the employer is employing a foreign domestic worker (FDW) for the first time in Singapore.

Can a family living in a 2-room HDB flat employ an MDW?

As an employer, you will be responsible for the health and well-being of your migrant domestic worker (MDW). This includes ensuring that she has adequate privacy and sleeping space in the home where she is staying.

If you live in a 2-room HDB flat, you may have a space constraint with only 1 bedroom. MOM will consider your eligibility and need to employ an MDW.

Aside from employing an MDW, you could consider engaging a domestic cleaning service for household chores, and tapping on your extended family, or childcare and eldercare facilities for help with care-giving needs.

Can a Personalised Employment Pass holder employ an MDW?

Yes. If you hold a Personalised Employment Pass (PEP), you can apply for a Work Permit for a migrant domestic worker (MDW).

For your application, you will need to provide copies of the following:

• Your passport.
• Your work pass or your spouse’s Long Term Pass.
• Your child’s birth certificate or student pass (for Long Term Visit Pass holders).
• You and your spouse’s Income Tax Notice of Assessment for the current or previous assessment year (if any). Alternatively, you can give your consent to the Controller of Work Passes to verify your income with the Comptroller of Income Tax.

Note: If you or your spouse are unable to produce the required Income Tax Notice of Assessment, you must give the reasons in writing and an employment letter from your company (on the company’s letterhead) stating the employment start date and the monthly salary.

If you are unable to produce any of the supporting documents, you can provide the following alternatives:

• Reasons in writing.
• Other documentary proof of income, overseas Income Tax of Assessment or fixed deposit statement with a local bank.

Can an Employment Pass or S Pass holder employ an MDW?

Yes. If you hold an Employment Pass or S Pass, you can apply for a Work Permit for a migrant domestic worker (MDW).

For your application, you will need to provide copies of the following:

• Your passport.
• Your work pass or your spouse’s Long Term Pass.
• Your child’s birth certificate or student pass (for Long Term Visit Pass holders).
• You and your spouse’s Income Tax Notice of Assessment for the current or previous assessment year (if any). Alternatively, you can give your consent to the Controller of Work Passes to verify your income with the Comptroller of Income Tax.

Note: If you or your spouse are unable to produce the required Income Tax Notice of Assessment, you must give the reasons in writing and an employment letter from your company (on the company’s letterhead) stating the employment start date and the monthly salary.

If you are unable to produce any of the supporting documents, you can provide the following alternatives:

• Reasons in writing.
• Other documentary proof of income, overseas Income Tax of Assessment or fixed deposit statement with a local bank.

Can any single person employ an MDW?

If you are a single person, MOM will assess your eligibility and need to employ a migrant domestic worker (MDW).

To apply, you:

• Must be 21 years old and above.
• Cannot be an undischarged bankrupt when making the application.
• Must be earning a steady source of income, because employing a MDW comes with various costs, including the MDW’s salary, levy, medical insurance and food.

Find out more about the process to employ an MDW.

Can I appeal if I have been debarred from hiring migrant domestic workers?

You can appeal your debarment by writing to the Minister for Manpower, 18 Havelock Road, Singapore 059764.

Can I apply for an FDW and let her work for my relative?

According to the Work Permit Conditions, a foreign domestic worker (FDW) is allowed to work only for the employer at the residential address stated on the Work Permit. This is to prevent FDWs from being exploited into working for multiple households and employers.

Your relative will have to be the official employer if they require an FDW.

If your relative is unable to meet the existing criteria for employing an FDW, they can consider applying under a special scheme such as the Joint Income Scheme or Sponsorship Scheme.

Can I employ an MDW if I don’t have any income?

If you are aged 60 years old or above, not earning an income and not staying with any working adults, you can apply under the Sponsorship Scheme.

Aside from employing a migrant domestic worker (MDW), you could consider engaging a domestic cleaning service for household chores, and tapping on your extended family, or childcare and eldercare facilities for help with care-giving needs.

Can I employ a new MDW or renew my MDW’s work permit without engaging an employment agency?

Yes, you can apply for a Work Permit for a migrant domestic worker (MDW) or renew your MDW’s Work Permit directly through MOM eService using your Singpass.

Can I extend my current MDW’s Work Permit till my new MDW is here?

Yes, you can extend her work permit for up to one month.

Her work permit must be:

• Within 30 days before expiry.
• Eligible for renewal.

Can I extend the validity of my MDW’s Temporary Work Permit (Notification letter)?

Yes, you can request to extend the validity of her Temporary Work Permit (Notification letter).

MOM will email you the outcome within 1 week.

Can I get a lower levy for more than one MDW?

You can get the lower levy for up to 2 migrant domestic workers (MDWs) per household (employer and spouse). This is subject to the conditions being met for each MDW.

Can I get a refund for the Employers’ Orientation Programme if my FDW’s Work Permit application is rejected?

No, you cannot get a refund.

However, if you have attended the Employers’ Orientation Programme (EOP), you can use your attendance for future Work Permit applications.

Can I get levy concession for an MDW under the sponsorship scheme?

Yes. Under the sponsorship scheme, the employer is the elderly person. As such, the elderly person would be able to enjoy the levy concession if they are eligible for levy concession.

Can I get my MDW to co-pay her medical expenses that exceed the insurance benefit limit?

As employers of migrant domestic workers (MDWs) directly benefit from hiring them, they must bear all the costs of maintaining their MDWs. This includes any medical costs necessary for her health.

Hence, you are not allowed to make your MDW pay for her medical expenses. This includes medical expenses that are part of, or above what the insurance pays.

To help employers better manage the risk of having to pay large sums of money for their MDW’s medical expenses, MOM already requires you to buy both medical insurance and personal accident insurance of a minimum coverage for your MDW before you’re allowed to employ her.

Employers are encouraged to buy insurance with a higher coverage to protect themselves from any excessive medical bills.

Can I hire a second MDW?

You may be able to hire a second migrant domestic worker (MDW) if you have any of these family members living with you:

• At least 2 children below 18 years old.
• A parent or parent-in-law over 60 years old.

Can I hire an MDW if I am holding a Long Term Visit Pass?

Yes, you are eligible to hire a migrant domestic worker, provided your Long Term Visit Pass is valid when you apply for her Work Permit.

You will also have to meet all other criteria for employing MDWs.

Can I hire an MDW who is aged 50 and above?

If you are Renewing your current helper:

• You can continue to renew her Work Permit until she is 60 years old.

If you are Applying for new Work Permit for Malaysian migrant domestic worker (MDW) who is aged 58 or younger:

• You can apply for her Work Permit.

Can I leave my MDW with a friend, relative or employment agency while I am overseas?

As an employer, you are responsible for the well-being and upkeep of your migrant domestic worker (MDW). This applies even if you are overseas, e.g. on holiday or business trip.

Note: You must continue to pay her salary during your absence.

You can do one of the following:

• Leave her at home.
• Allow her to return to her home country for home leave.
• Leave her with a friend or relative. You need to:
•      Seek approval from MOM.
•      Ensure that the person you’re leaving her with can take care of her well-being, and does not deploy her for work.
•      Leave her at commercially provided housing such as accommodation for MDWs provided by EAs or dormitories for female workers. You need to seek approval from MOM.

To seek approval:

1. Send an online request at least 3 working days before your trip, include the following details:

•      Name, address and relationship of the person your MDW will be staying with.
•      Name of EA or dormitory operator.
•      Duration and dates of her stay.

2. You will receive a reply from MOM whether your request is approved or rejected.

Note: If your MDW remains in Singapore, you must ensure she doesn’t need to pay for her upkeep, including food, medical treatment and accommodation.

Can I hire an FDW from another employer on a part-time basis to do household work?

No.

It is an offence for a foreign domestic worker (FDW) to engage in part-time employment, with or without her employer’s consent.

Under the Work Permit conditions, an FDW is employed to perform domestic chores only for her employer at the residential address stated in her Work Permit card.

Can I renew my MDW’s work permit early?

You can renew your MDW’s Work Permit after you receive the letter from MOM about 8 weeks before the Work Permit expires.

However, if you need to renew her Work Permit earlier, you can submit a request.

Can I repatriate my FDW to another destination?

Yes, you can repatriate your foreign domestic worker (FDW) to another destination that is not her home country if you both agree to this. You need to notify MOM of this arrangement when you cancel the Work Permit.

On the cancellation page, select the option declaring that you are repatriating your FDW to a destination other than their home country, and that both of you have reached a mutual agreement.

You should also ensure that she has a proper entry visa to the other country, if needed.

Can my MDW look after my child or parent at my relative’s house?

Based on the Work Permit regulatory conditions, migrant domestic workers (MDWs) are only allowed to perform domestic chores at the residential address declared to MOM.

However, MOM understands that you may need your MDW to take care of your child or parent at a relative’s house.

You must notify MOM before you can proceed with the arrangement. To notify MOM, you must first:

• Obtain your MDW’s written agreement to take care of your child or parent at your relative’s house.
• Ensure your MDW does not perform the full load of housework in both households.
• If the MDW needs to stay overnight to take care of your child or parent at your relative’s house, please ensure her accommodation meets the requirements.
• As an employer, you remain responsible for your MDW’s upkeep and maintenance, which include providing acceptable accommodation, adequate food and medical treatment.

Do I have to be in Singapore when applying for an MDW?

You must be living in Singapore to employ a migrant domestic worker (MDW), but you do not need to be here during the application. You will still need to remain contactable if clarification is needed regarding your application.

Do I have to pay for my FDW’s passport renewal?

You and your foreign domestic worker (FDW) should mutually agree on who should pay for her passport renewal. This should be decided preferably at the start of her employment and stated in the employment contract.

Passport renewal fees can be relatively costly for an FDW. While you are not required to pay for your FDW’s passport renewal, you could consider helping with the cost out of goodwill.

Do I need to go through the whole process each time I apply for an MDW?

Yes, you will need to submit a new application each time you intend to hire a migrant domestic worker (MDW).

What is Contracts and safety agreement for foreign domestic worker?

You are encouraged to sign an employment contract with your foreign domestic worker (FDW) and are required to sign a safety agreement with her.

FDWs are not covered by the Employment Act because it is not practical to regulate specific aspects of domestic work, such as hours of work and work on public holidays.

However, MOM encourages you to sign an employment contract with your FDW to avoid disputes.

You and your FDW must also sign a safety agreement before she starts working for you.

Employment contract

The terms and conditions in your employment contract must be mutually agreed between you and your FDW.

As an employer, you are encouraged to cover all of the following:

• Salary
• Placement loan
• Number of rest days per month
• Compensation in lieu of rest day
• Notice period
• Compensation in lieu of termination notice

You can get your employment agency to draft an employment contract for you and your FDW.

Terminating an employment contract

Early termination is allowed to maintain flexibility for you and your FDW, as circumstances may change.

Either you or your FDW can terminate the employment contract by giving the notice period stated in the employment contract. If the notice period cannot be given, the party terminating the employment should pay salary in lieu of notice. Notice period can be waived by mutual consent.

Safety agreement

When you hire a first-time or transfer FDW, your employment agency must arrange for you and her to sign a safety agreement.

The aim of the agreement is to ensure that both of you understand MOM’s restrictions for cleaning the exterior of windows.

You do not need to sign a safety agreement if you are renewing your existing FDW’s contract.

When to sign

Refer to the table for when you must sign the safety agreement:

• If your FDW is a first-time FDW: After the FDW has attended the Settling-In Programme and before she starts work at your home.
• If your FDW is a transfer FDW: Before the FDW is deployed to you.

What it covers

The safety agreement:

• Lists the restrictions on cleaning the exterior of windows.
• States that your requirements for cleaning windows will comply with MOM regulations.
• Includes the FDW’s acknowledgment of your requirement on window cleaning.

To ensure that your FDW fully understands the agreement, the copy she signs will be in her native language.

The agreement will be signed by three parties: you, the employment agency and the FDW. You must each keep a copy of the agreement.

Visit MOM for:

Templates and forms for employment agencies:

• https://bit.ly/3FpMTAD

Sample service agreement:

• https://bit.ly/3H4qqto

For FDW biodata Form:

• https://bit.ly/3yQwuTk

For Safety agreement in respective mother language of MDW:

• Bahasa Indonesia: https://bit.ly/32l1e35
• Burmese: https://bit.ly/3po8jc1
• Khmer: https://bit.ly/3qhxsUV
• Sinhalese: https://bit.ly/3H6bJG7
• Tagalog: https://bit.ly/3yP0FdK
• Tamil: https://bit.ly/3Jd9UsY
• Thai: https://bit.ly/3J9gRLA

Do I need to pay a minimum wage to my FDW?

MOM does not prescribe minimum wages for all workers in Singapore, including FDWs.

Do I still need to pay levy even though I have sent my MDW back to the employment agency to transfer her to another employer?

Yes, you must do so. You need to pay levy up till the date she is transferred to her new employer. Thus, levy will be charged even if you sent the helper back to the employment agency while she waits for the transfer.

The process of finding a new employer may take a few weeks, so you should check regularly with the employment agency on the progress of the transfer.

Once her new employer issues the Work Permit, MOM will automatically cancel her current Work Permit and stop your levy billing.

Do sponsors have to attend the Employers’ Orientation Programme?

A sponsor who has not employed an FDW before must attend the Employers’ Orientation Programme (EOP), only if the official employer has a valid reason for not being able to attend, e.g. 60 years of age or older and suffers physical disability.

As the sponsor will be managing the FDW in the employment relationship, attendance at the EOP will help them know their legal responsibilities and obligations of employing an FDW.

How can an MDW report that her salary has not been paid?

The migrant domestic worker (MDW) should make her claim to the Foreign Manpower Management Division (Well-Being Branch). She can call MOM MDW helpline at 1800 339 5505 (or +65 6339 5505 for overseas callers).

The department will help her to recover her salary through conciliation.

Failure to pay an MDW’s salary is an offence. To minimise disputes, employers should pay an MDW’s salary within 1 week after the end of the month worked and keep records of salary payment.

How can I check if my FDW needs to attend the Settling-In Programme (SIP)?

You will be informed of this requirement in the “Letter of Notification to bring FDW into Singapore”.

You can also check WP Online for whether your FDW is required to attend the SIP.

The Work Permit system keeps a record of FDWs and their employment history, and will identify which FDWs are new to Singapore.

How can I hire an MDW without a Notice of Assessment (NOA) from IRAS?

When hiring a migrant domestic worker (MDW), you may be asked to produce a Notice of Assessment (NOA) from IRAS to show your past years’ income.

However, if you have just started working or returned from overseas, you can provide the following documents instead:

• Your employment letter.
• Your CPF statements.

How can I request to reinstate my Migrant Domestic Worker’s permit that is revoked due to levy default?

You need to:

• Pay all your outstanding levy using Check and pay levy.
• Submit your reinstatement request before the deadline stated in the Work Permit suspension letter.
• Pay $35 to reinstate your helper’s Work Permit.

If you’re unable to pay online:

• Use other payment methods.
• Wait 5 working days for the payment to be processed before requesting to reinstate your helper’s Work Permit.

Note: You cannot reinstate your helper’s Work Permit if you have defaulted on levy more than 2 times within the last 12 months.

Please note that if the Work Permit is successfully reinstated, you will also be liable for levy for the period when it was revoked.

How do I apply for a second MDW?

You are eligible to hire a second migrant domestic worker (MDW) if you have any of these family members living with you:

• At least 2 children below 18 years old.
• A parent or parent-in-law over 60 years old.
• You also need to provide sufficient privacy and sleeping space in the house for the 2 MDWs.

To apply for the second MDW, submit a Work Permit application and provide the relevant information:

• A copy of the children’s birth certificates.
• A copy of the parent’s or parent-in-law’s identity cards and the employer’s or spouse’s birth certificate.
• Each household can hire up to 2 MDWs.

How do I calculate my FDW’s pay in-lieu of a weekly rest day?

You are strongly encouraged to provide your FDW with weekly rest days as it provides her with a physical, emotional, and mental break from work. This helps to improve your FDW’s productivity at work.

However, if you and your FDW mutually agree for her to work on her rest day, you must pay her at least 1 day’s salary for each rest day she does not take, on top of her monthly salary.

Note: 1 day’s salary can be calculated by dividing her monthly salary by 26 working days, as there are typically 4 weeks and therefore 4 rest days in a month.

Example:

Your FDW’s monthly salary: $560

Number of rest days not used in a month: 2

1 day’s salary: $560 ÷ 26 = $21.50

Payment for rest days not used: $21.50 × 2 = $43

You should pay: $560 + $43 = $603

How do I check an employment agency’s track record for MDWs?

You can check on an employment agency’s (EA) track record in the EA directory, which lists employment agencies licensed by MOM. Indicators of performance include:

• Successful retention rate.
• Total number of migrant domestic workers (MDWs) the EA placed in the previous year.

How do I check an MDW’s employment history?

You can check the employment record of a prospective migrant domestic worker (MDW) by logging in to MOM FDW eService with your Singpass.

You will need the MDW’s details to access her record:

• Name or FIN
• Nationality
• Date of birth

Alternatively, your employment agency can do the check for you.

How do I check my MDW’s medical examination date?

You can log in to the FDW eService to check your helper’s last 6-monthly medical examination (6ME) date, or if your helper is due for 6ME.

How to submit 6ME results for helpers?

All results must be submitted by clinics using MOM Medical Examination (ME) portal.

After receiving the results, MOM will notify employers at their registered email addresses.

Employers can then view the results using MOM FDW eService. If you do not see the results 3 weeks after your helper’s medical examination, please check with the clinic.

How is the medical insurance for an MDW different from the other employer-paid insurance requirements?

The medical insurance requirement provides cover for a migrant domestic worker (MDW)’s medical expenses, including hospital bills arising from treatment for causes that may not be work-related.

It serves a different purpose from the other employer-paid insurance requirements, such as:

• Work injury compensation insurance. This covers compensation, including medical expenses, for work-related injuries only. It also applies to both local and migrant workers.
• Personal accident insurance for MDWs. This insures against accidental death and permanent disablement, not medical expenses.

How many interviews will be conducted with my FDW? Is this a one-time or recurring arrangement?

This is a one-time interview. Depending on the findings, MOM will inform you if there is a need for a follow-up interview.

How to open a bank account for my migrant domestic worker (MDW)?

You can help your MDW:

Open a POSB Payroll Account:

• For new or transfer MDW: When you get her Work Permit issued.
• For current MDW:
• At POSB website: http://www.posb.com.sg/fdwsalarycredit

Open an account with another bank:

• Your MDW can also open an account at another bank.
• Please check with the bank on the conditions for opening and maintaining the bank account.

How would an unmarried elderly person apply for an MDW?

An elderly person can apply for a migrant domestic worker (MDW) under a special scheme: the Joint Income Scheme or the Sponsorship Scheme.

Visit for details: https://bit.ly/3pmmxKl

I am a migrant domestic worker (MDW) in distress. Who can I call?

You can:

• Call the Police at 999 if you are in danger; OR
• Call the MDW Helpline at 1800 339 5505 to speak to an MOM officer.

The helpline is strictly for MDWs in distress. For other matters, call MOM Contact Centre.

I am planning to send my FDW home in the next few weeks or months. Does she still need to attend the interview?

Yes. Your FDW will have to attend the interview as long as she is still under your employment.

If I am a foreigner bringing in my own MDW, must she attend the Settling-In Programme (SIP)?

If your migrant domestic worker (MDW) is a first-time MDW in Singapore, she is required to attend the SIP.

A first-time MDW is one who:

• Doesn’t have an employment record with MOM’s Work Pass Division.
• Has Work Permit records with MOM but did not collect her Work Permit card, or collected the card but did not eventually work in Singapore.

If my current MDW’s contract is expiring soon, when can I apply for a new MDW?

It can take some time to find a suitable replacement migrant domestic worker (MDW) and arrange for her to come to Singapore, so you should aim to apply for a work permit at least one month before the work permit of your current MDW expires.

Upon the approval of your new MDW’s work permit, you only need to cancel your current MDW’s work permit just before you get the new MDW’s work permit issued.

If my MDW falls ill or gets injured on her weekly rest day, do I need to pay for her medical treatment?

Yes. You must still pay for the costs of providing the necessary medical treatment for her, even if the illness or injury occurs on her rest day.

If my residence is temporary, can I apply for an MDW?

Yes. You will need to provide proof of stay at this temporary residence, such as a copy of your NRIC (front and back) and tenancy agreement. Once you have moved, you also need to inform MOM of your new residential address.

Is my MDW allowed to end her two-year employment contract prematurely?

All employees – whether local or foreign, including your migrant domestic worker (MDW) – can terminate the employment contract at any time, as long as they serve the required notice stated in their contract, or make payment in lieu of notice. This is to maintain flexibility for both the employer and the MDW. When employees do so, it is not considered a breach of contract. Likewise, employers should also give notice as stated in the contract if they intend to end the MDW’s employment prematurely.

Both employers and MDWs may need to terminate a contract early for unanticipated reasons. To cater for this, employment contracts typically provide for such flexibility through termination clauses, which can be exercised before contract expiry. That said, many employment agencies do provide assistance to employers, such as finding a replacement, if the MDW terminates her employment contract early.

Employers must also make sure that their MDWs are paid before they leave. Failure to do so is an offence under the EFMA.

Is there a minimum duration for employing an MDW?

No, there is no minimum period for employing a migrant domestic worker (MDW).

I have applied for a replacement helper. Can I employ both my current and new helpers at the same time for a short handover period?

Once your new helper’s Work Permit is approved, you can ask for a handover period. MOM will inform you of the outcome instantly.

Additional step for employment agencies: Please get the employer’s authorisation using MOM FDW eService before you can perform any transactions for them. For more details, you can refer to MOM FAQs and infographic.

• MOM FAQs
• Infographic

Must I pay my MDW’s salary when she is housed with the employment agency for training?

Yes. You must pay your MDW’s salary as long as she is employed by you.

This applies even if you have sent her to the employment agency for training.

Must the employer pay the salary of their MDW when she is on overseas leave?

No, the employer need not do so unless this is provided for in the employment contract.

My MDW and I disagree on the destination where she will be repatriated. Can I get help to resolve the dispute?

Sending your migrant domestic worker (MDW) home after her employment ends is part of your responsibility as an employer. This is a condition of the Security Bond.

Employers may also send their MDWs to another destination by mutual agreement. Both employers and MDWs are encouraged to be understanding, and to exercise flexibility when doing so. You can inform MOM of this arrangement when cancelling the Work Permit.

However in cases where both employers and MDWs are unable to come to an agreement, you can contact MOM for a decision.

My FDW has working experience of more than a few months, why is she selected for the FDW interview?

Selection for the FDW interview is random, and part of MOM’s audits to safeguard the well-being of FDWs working in Singapore.

MOM reaches out to FDWs to understand and address any issues they might have. MOM also uses the interview to remind FDWs of her responsibilities, and share tips on safe working practices and ways to promote better relationships with their employers.

My migrant domestic worker (MDW) is 50 years old or above. Does she need to go for 6-monthly medical examination (6ME)?

• If your MDW is 50 years old or above, she doesn’t need to go for 6ME.
• She only needs to go for medical examination upon renewal of her Work Permit.

My FDW wants to end her employment contract without serving notice, but she is unable to pay the salary in-lieu of notice. What should I do?

The notice period gives foreign domestic workers (FDWs) and employers time for a smooth handover and transition.

Just like with any other employment contract, responsible FDWs who decide to end their employment contracts early need to either serve the notice period, or pay in-lieu of notice. You should explain to your FDW that she is contractually bound to serve the notice period, and discuss with your FDW to find a mutually agreed solution.

There are some cases where FDWs may need to terminate their contract early, without being able to pay the salary in lieu of notice. Employers are encouraged to exercise compassion where appropriate, and find a mutually agreed solution, such as a shorter notice period or waiving part of the salary in lieu of notice.

If your FDW is leaving and you have urgent caregiving needs, you may approach an employment agency that is under the Advance Placement Scheme to hire another FDW quickly.

My helper has passed away. How do I cancel her work permit as I don’t have Singpass?

If you are the employer and cannot access the FDW eService as you don’t have a valid Singpass, you can request to cancel the work permit of your helper who passed away in Singapore.

An authorised person can also submit the request on behalf of the employer at: https://form.gov.sg/#!/5c6d27869e8a3c0017226f67.

You will need to upload a copy of the following documents in your request:

• Death certificate
• Airway bill if the ashes or body has been sent back to the home country; OR
• Burial certificate if the body has been buried in Singapore; OR
• Cremation certificate if the body has been cremated in Singapore.

You should also ensure that all salaries have been paid and employment issues settled, before submitting the request.

MOM will cancel the work permit within 3 working days of receiving the request.

My helper is helping the authorities with an investigation. How do I cancel her work permit as I don’t have Singpass?

If you are the employer and cannot access the FDW eService as you don’t have a valid Singpass, you can request to cancel the work permit of your helper.

An authorised person can also submit the request on behalf of the employer at: https://form.gov.sg/#!/5c6d27869e8a3c0017226f67.

You will need to upload a letter from the relevant government agency confirming your helper has been arrested, or is helping with an investigation. Otherwise, give MOM the investigation officer’s contact details.

MOM will cancel the work permit within 3 working days of receiving the request.

My helper is missing. How do I cancel her work permit as I don’t have Singpass?

If you are the employer and cannot access the FDW eService as you don’t have a valid Singpass, you can request to cancel the work permit of your missing helper.

An authorised person can also submit the request on behalf of the employer at: https://form.gov.sg/#!/5c6d27869e8a3c0017226f67.

You will need to upload the missing person police report in your request.

MOM will cancel the work permit within 3 working days of receiving the request.

What are the features of the new Work Permit card (with the QR code) for domestic helpers?

From 24 August 2020, MOM will be issuing new Work Permit cards for migrant domestic workers (MDWs) who are new to Singapore or have changed employers. Each card has a unique QR code, and will no longer show employment details, such as the employer’s name and address.

Instead you can scan the card using SGWorkPass to see this information. Any changes in their employment information will be automatically updated into SGWorkPass. Therefore, employers will longer be required to replace their helper’s card when they change their residential address.

Domestic helpers will only change to the new cards when they need to report to the service centre for registration or change employers. If you wish to get your helper to change to the new card immediately, you will need to pay a card replacement fee of $60.

You can view the different types of pass cards issued by MOM, including the new card.

What can be counted into an MDW’s monthly salary?

The MDW’s monthly salary includes basic monthly salary plus any fixed monthly allowances.

It doesn’t include salary in lieu of rest days, although employers must still pay their MDWs if they work on a rest day.

My foreign domestic worker (FDW) wishes to end her employment contract prematurely, and she has not repaid her placement loan. What can I do?

Our EA Licence Conditions require employment agencies (EA)s to state their refund policies in their contracts with employers. This includes refunds for loans extended by employers to their FDWs for the placement fee.

Therefore, if the FDW terminates her employment prematurely with an outstanding placement loan, employers should refer to the contract they signed with their EA for details on the refunds for loans. The contract will lay out whether and under what circumstances they can get a full or partial refund.

There are also EAs which do not require employers to extend placement loans to FDWs. Hence, the issue of a refund will not arise. Employers should inform the EA if they prefer such an arrangement.

What if an MDW’s employer does not meet the medical insurance requirement?

As an employer of a migrant domestic worker (MDW), you benefit directly from hiring her. Hence, you must bear all the costs of maintaining her. This includes any medical cost necessary for her health.

Employers must purchase medical insurance of a minimum coverage. This helps the employer to cover the MDW’s medical bills.

It is a breach of the work pass regulatory conditions if employer doesn’t buy the required medical insurance. If found to be in breach, the employer faces a fine, and may also be barred from employing MDWs.

What should I do if I’ve lost or did not receive my MDW’s 6-monthly medical examination (6ME) notification letter?

You can print a duplicate of the notification letter.

You need a Singpass to access it.

What if I have not received or lost my MDW’s in-principle approval letter?

You can log in to MOM eService to print a duplicate copy of the in-principle approval letter or “Letter of Notification to bring Foreign Domestic Worker (FDW) into Singapore”.

Alternatively, you can request for a duplicate copy from the Domestic Permit Section, Work Pass Division:

• By fax to 6538 7275.
• By online request: https://bit.ly/3ySe30x

Include the following in your request:

• Your MDW’s full name, Work Permit number and date of birth.
• Your full name.
• Your NRIC or CPF reference number.
• Your residential address and direct contact number.

What if my MDW misses her 6-monthly medical examination (6ME)?

Your migrant domestic worker’s (MDW) Work Permit will be revoked if you fail to send her for her checkup on time.

If you wish to continue employing the MDW, you can quickly inform MOM by:

• Calling 6438 5122.
• Online request: https://bit.ly/3Jf5DFu

Otherwise, please arrange to send her home immediately. An overstaying fine may be charged.

What are the insurance requirements for MDWs?

You need to buy medical and personal accident insurance for your migrant domestic worker (MDW). Find out the coverage required.

Before your helper arrives in Singapore, you must buy medical insurance and personal accident insurance as part of your medical obligations to her.

You cannot pass on the cost of purchasing the insurance to your helper.

Medical insurance

You need to buy medical insurance with a coverage of at least $15,000 per year for inpatient care and day surgery during your helper’s stay in Singapore.

Personal accident insurance

The personal accident insurance purchased for your helper must meet all of these requirements:

• Have a sum assured of at least $60,000 per year.
• Cover sudden, unforeseen and unexpected incidents resulting in permanent disability or death.
• Not contain extra exclusion clauses that are not in the Employment of Foreign Manpower Regulations.

This is to protect your helper and her family by providing a lump sum compensation if she suffers from permanent disability or passes away due to an accident.

The compensation must be made payable to your helper or her beneficiaries.

What is personal accident insurance (PAI)?

PAI insures against accidental death or permanent disablement. It provides a lump sum compensation to the beneficiaries of the policy if unfortunate events happen.

Find out more about personal accident insurance for MDWs:

What is Medical insurance for MDWs?

You need to buy medical and personal accident insurance for your migrant domestic worker (MDW). Find out the coverage required.

Before your helper arrives in Singapore, you must buy medical insurance and personal accident insurance as part of your medical obligations to her.

You cannot pass on the cost of purchasing the insurance to your helper.

Medical insurance

You need to buy medical insurance with a coverage of at least $15,000 per year for inpatient care and day surgery during your helper’s stay in Singapore.

What is the difference between medical insurance and personal accident insurance for my domestic helper?

MDW employers are required to buy medical insurance with a minimum sum assured of at least $15,000 per year. This covers hospitalisation and surgery expenses.

The personal accident insurance (PAI), however, provides a lump sum compensation to the MDWs or their next of kin if the MDW suffers from permanent disability or passes away due to an accident. The required minimum sum assured for PAI is $60,000 from 1 October 2017.

What is the MDW’s employment agency responsible for?

If you engage an employment agency (EA) to help you with hiring a migrant domestic worker (MDW), the EA is responsible for:

• The MDW’s upkeep and maintenance, including accommodation, from her arrival until she is successfully placed for employment, or until she is sent home if unsuccessfully placed.
• Sending the MDW home, and bearing the cost of doing so, if she is unsuccessfully placed.
• Ensuring that you and the MDW sign the safety agreement.

The EA should only place the MDW for employment after she has attended the Settling-In Programme (SIP).

What is the maximum number of years an MDW can work for the same employer?

There is no maximum number of years a migrant domestic worker (MDW) can work for the same employer. However, the maximum age that the MDW can work in Singapore is 60 years old.

What is the minimum income needed to employ an MDW?

While the household income or monthly salary is a qualifying criteria, MOM is unable to reveal the exact amount.

This salary requirement is set based on the realistic overall cost of hiring a migrant domestic worker (MDW), including worker’s salary, levy, insurance, food and other expenses.

The household income will be assessed based on the type of application:

• For married couples, you can combine income with your spouse.
• Under the Joint Income Scheme, you can combine your income with one of your immediate family members (other than your spouse) living at the same address.
• If you are aged 60 years old or above, not earning an income and not staying with any working adults, you can apply under the Sponsorship Scheme.

What is the pilot programme to facilitate the entry of MDWs?

The pilot programme is an industry-led initiative to facilitate the entry of migrant domestic workers (MDWs) safely through additional safe management measures overseas.

At its onset, the pilot was led by the Association of Employment Agencies (Singapore) (AEA(S)) and a few employment agencies (EAs). The pilot has shown to be effective at reducing the risk of COVID-19 importation. AEA(S) and its partner EAs, together with other companies that have come forward to express interest in the programme, are scaling up and setting up operations overseas.

For EAs and employers that are keen to enrol

Other than the programme coordinated by AEA(S), some other EAs and service providers listed below have submitted proposals to run similar pilot programmes, and MOM has no objections.

EAs and employers who are interested to bring in MDWs through the pilot programme can contact AEA(S) and these service providers directly:

• Association of Employment Agencies (Singapore): http://www.aeas.org.sg
• Altronz Consulting Pte Ltd: sbp@altronzconsulting.com
• Equidius Services Pte Ltd:enquiries@equidius.com.sg

What other choices do families have for taking care of children or elderly persons at home?

Aside from employing a migrant domestic worker, you could a engage a domestic cleaning service to take care of household chores or tap on your extended family to look after the child or the elderly person. You can also consider childcare or after-school care and elderly day-care facilities.

What should I do if an MDW has not been paid, is overworked or not given enough food?

You can send feedback to MOM with her details by:

• Report an infringement online.
• Email to mom_fmmd@mom.gov.sg

Alternatively, you can:

• Advise her to call MDW Helpline: 1800 339 5505 (+65 6339 5505 for overseas callers)
• Centre for Domestic Employees: 1800 225 5233 (24 hrs)

Accompany her to make a complaint personally at:

• MOM Services Centre – Hall A, 1500 Bendemeer Road, Singapore 339946

Find out more about well-being for MDWs: https://bit.ly/3H4Xwct

What should I do if my MDW missed her flight home but I’ve already cancelled her Work Permit?

You should:

1. Book your MDW on another flight home.
2. Log in to WPOL to:

•        Change her departure date.
•        Extend her Special Pass.

What should I look for when choosing an employment agency for FDW?

When choosing an employment agency to help you with hiring a foreign domestic worker (FDW), you must ensure that it is a licensed agency.

You should also look at its track record. Indicators of performance include:

• Successful retention rate.
• Total number of FDWs placed by the agency in the previous year.

What should the family do if an MDW’s employer passes away?

The passing of a loved one is a difficult time for the family. MOM recognises that time is needed to settle the immediate issues.

After that, the family of the employer has to do one of the following:

• Cancel the Work Permit and send the helper home.
• Transfer the helper to another employer or a family member.

Cancel Work Permit and send her home

To cancel the helper’s Work Permit:

1. Ensure that all issues arising from the employment, including outstanding wages, have been settled with the helper.
2. After all issues are settled, family members can either:

•    Appoint an employment agency to help cancel the Work Permit online.
•    Request to cancel the work permit. You will need to upload a copy of the employer’s death certificate.

Transfer to another employer or a family member

The new employer needs to:

1. Submit an online Work Permit application.
2. Buy a new insurance package.

Note:

• MOM may request for a copy of the employer’s death certificate during application or when getting the Work Permit issued.
• If the employer was 67 years old or above, the levy concession may end.

What will happen to my missing MDW when her Work Permit is cancelled?

If your migrant domestic worker (MDW) has run away, she will become an overstayer once her Work Permit is cancelled. As an overstayer who is in breach of Singapore’s immigration regulations, she can be fined, jailed, or both, before she is sent home.

When should my MDW renew her passport?

Employers should ensure that their MDWs passports are valid for purpose of overseas travel, otherwise the MDW will not be able to leave Singapore.

Where can I buy medical insurance for my migrant domestic worker (MDW)?

You can buy plans from any insurer as long as it meets the compulsory minimum coverage requirements. Refer to Question on Insurance requirements ffor MDWs.

However, you are strongly encouraged to buy additional insurance coverage for greater protection against medical bills incurred by your MDW and peace of mind.

When buying medical insurance for your MDW, you should pay attention to the features of the plan, such as the exclusion clauses.

Who can be a training provider for the Employers’ Orientation Programme?

Training providers who apply to be accredited training providers (ATPs) and meet MOM criteria can be accredited ATPs for the migrant domestic worker Employers’ Orientation Programme. The criteria include the trainers’ experience and the ability to provide training facilities and materials according to MOM’s requirements.

Who pays for sending an FDW home if the contract is terminated early, either by the employer or the FDW?

All employers who wish to bring in foreign domestic workers (FDWs) are required to bear the full cost of employing them. This includes the cost of sending them home when the employment relationship ends.

Find out the below steps you need to take when sending your FDW home.

Sending a migrant domestic worker (MDW) home

When your MDW’s employment ends, you need to complete certain steps before she departs for her home country.

Before you send your helper home:

• Settle all outstanding employment issues that she may raise, including salary payment.
• Ensure she has a valid passport.
• Discuss with her and agree on the following in writing before buying an air ticket:
•       Transit arrangement, such as connecting flights and layover hours
•       Allowance needed to sustain her during the transit
• Buy her an air ticket to her home country and pay for the transport to her hometown. Her departure date must be within 2 weeks from the Work Permit cancellation.

Note: You must pay for her air ticket and it must include check-in luggage. To avoid disputes, please get her to acknowledge the transport payment from you in writing.

Who should pay for an FDW’s air ticket if she goes on overseas leave?

Employers and foreign domestic workers (FDWs) are encouraged to discuss and agree on the terms and conditions of employment at the start of the employment relationship. This includes overseas leave arrangements, such as who pays for travel expenses.

If it is not stated in the employment contract, you can come to a mutual agreement with your FDW on who should pay. To minimise disputes, this agreement should be in writing.

Why did my helper’s levy rate change?

Your helper’s levy rate may change when there are:

• Changes in your levy concession eligibility.
• Changes in the number of helpers.

Changes in your levy concession eligibility

You qualify for levy concession when you hire a helper and stay with any of these family members:

• Child or grandchild below 16 years old.
• Elderly family member who is at least 67 years old.
• Family member who needs help with at least one daily activity.

However, you stop qualifying for levy concession when the:

• Child or grandchild turns 16 years old.
• Person needing care (young child, aged or disabled family member) has passed away.
• Person needing care no longer stays with you.
• Person needing care is no longer a Singapore citizen.

Example:

You have 2 helpers, Mary and Jane.

You qualify for levy concession because your aged mother stays with you.

On 18 June 2019, your mother moves to another address. Thus, you no longer qualify for levy concession.

Your helpers’ levy rates will change and the new rates take effect from 18 June 2019:

Changes in the number of helpers

This can happen due to many reasons (e.g. when you cancel your helper’s work permit, or decide to keep both helpers when one was meant as a replacement).

Example:

Your helper, Mary, is on the concessionary levy rate of $60 as you have a young child.

You then hire a new helper, Jane, to replace Mary. Because Jane is Mary’s replacement, her levy rate will be the same as Mary’s of $60.

However, later on you decide to keep both Mary and Jane. Since Jane is no longer replacing Mary, you will have 2 helpers instead of 1. Jane’s levy rate will be changed to $300 from the day her levy starts.

Learn more about Levy Concession: https://bit.ly/3Emdiy3

Why do FDW employers need to buy personal accident insurance (PAI) for their FDWs?

Unlike other workers, FDWs are excluded from the Workman Injury Compensation Act (WICA).

FDWs are employed by households and they work and live in the same premises, making it difficult to determine whether any injury sustained in the premises was due to work-related activities.

Thus, in lieu of WICA, FDW employers must buy personal accident insurance (PAI) for their FDWs.

The PAI provides compensation to the FDWs in the event of permanent disablement or death, regardless of whether or not the accident was work-related.

Why do I have to pay for my FDW’s trip home, even when she was the one who resigned?

Employers are responsible for the cost of sending their FDWs home. This responsibility forms part of the conditions for granting a work permit, and is made known to employers at the point of work permit application. This is to prevent a situation where the FDW, upon termination of her employment, is left stranded here with no other means to return home.

Why do I need to get a new security bond when taking over an MDW from my family member?

A security bond is a binding pledge to pay the government (up to $5,000) if you break the security bond conditions. When your migrant domestic worker (MDW) is transferred to another employer, you are discharged from this liability.

If your family member wishes to take over the employment of the MDW from you, they need to take over this liability by purchasing a new bond. This applies even if the new employer is your family member, if you stay at the same address, or if you share the same bank account.

Why do I need to provide my household details when applying for my MDW’s Work Permit?

You need to provide your household details (e.g. family members’ NRIC number or FIN, and date of birth) for MOM to assess your eligibility for a migrant domestic worker and levy concession.

Why is there a need to resume face-to-face FDW interviews since it was previously conducted through video?

Face-to-face FDW interviews offers greater privacy for the FDW compared to video interviews. Adequate safe management measures are in place at CDE’s premises.

Will I be compensated for the effort and expenses to arrange my FDW to attend the FDW interview?

You must ensure your FDW attends the compulsory FDW interview. Information on your responsibilities as an employer is included in the Employer’s Orientation Programme (EOP).