Yes, hiring a maid without an agency is possible in Singapore! My aunt has done this, so I’m familiar with the experience, which I’d like to share with you in this guide.

It can be a cost-effective and rewarding journey if you know what to look out for. Understanding the legal requirements, setting a fair salary, and offering competitive benefits are crucial steps, so allow me to walk you through the entire process.

Can I hire a domestic helper without an agency in Singapore?

Hiring a domestic helper without an agency is entirely doable and can save you money while giving you more control over the selection process. 

However, it does require a bit more effort and understanding of the procedures involved, as these steps reveal.

1. Understand legal requirements

When hiring a domestic helper without an agency, it’s essential to understand the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) regulations in Singapore. These regulations include eligibility criteria for employers, requirements for the helper, and mandatory obligations like medical insurance and rest days.

Ensure you meet all criteria for hiring a domestic helper, including obtaining a valid work permit and following guidelines for salary, living conditions, and working hours. Stay updated with regulation changes to avoid legal issues and ensure a smooth hiring process. (Ministry of Manpower (MOM) – Employers’ Guide) 

2. Determine your needs

Before hiring a domestic helper, it’s essential to determine your specific needs. Are you hiring a maid for the elderly in Singapore? Do you require assistance with childcare, housekeeping, or cooking?

Additionally, decide whether you need a live-in helper, who resides in your home and is available at all times, or a live-out helper, who commutes to your home daily. This decision will impact your budget, living arrangements, and the level of flexibility you require. 

3. Set a budget

Setting a budget is a crucial step when hiring a domestic helper without an agency. Begin by researching the average salary range for maids in Singapore, which typically varies based on their country of origin and experience.

How much does it cost to hire a maid lately? As of 2024, the average monthly salary for a foreign domestic worker ranges from SGD 450 to SGD 700. Consider additional costs like food, lodging, suitable accommodation, and daily meals. 

Medical insurance is also mandatory, with a minimum coverage of SGD 15,000 per year. Factoring in these additional costs ensures that you are fully prepared for the financial commitment involved in hiring a domestic helper.

4. Find the right candidate

You may be wondering what race/nationality is the best to hire as a maid. I believe it’s crucial to focus on a maid’s skills, experience, and suitability for your needs rather than their nationality. 

In Singapore, domestic helpers from the Philippines, Indonesia, and Myanmar each bring unique strengths. Filipino helpers are often proficient in English and well-educated, while Indonesian and Myanmar helpers excel in housekeeping and cooking.

Use online job portals, community networks, and social media to advertise your job opening and connect with potential candidates quickly. These platforms offer a wide reach and diverse options.

5. Offer competitive benefits

This step is crucial to attracting and retaining a good domestic helper. Start by providing a fair salary that aligns with the current market rates in Singapore, ensuring it reflects the maid’s experience and qualifications. 

In addition to a fair salary, ensure mandatory benefits like regular rest days, medical care, and insurance coverage. These benefits are legally required and show your commitment to your helper’s well-being and job satisfaction.

6. Draft and sign an employment contract

Drafting and signing a comprehensive employment contract is a crucial step in hiring a domestic helper. The contract should clearly outline the duties and responsibilities of the helper, including specific tasks they are expected to perform.

It should also specify the agreed-upon salary, regular rest days, and any additional benefits provided. Termination conditions must be clearly stated to avoid any future misunderstandings. 

Once the contract is prepared, ensure that both you and the helper read and understand all the terms. Finally, both parties should sign the contract to formalise the agreement. For reference, you can find a sample employment contract here.

7. Apply for a work permit

For this step, start by gathering and submitting all the necessary documents to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). These documents typically include the employment contract, the helper’s passport, and medical examination reports, among others.

Ensure all forms are accurately completed to avoid any delays. After submission, monitor the application process closely by regularly checking the status online or contacting MOM for updates. 

Once the work permit is approved, you’ll receive a notification, and the permit will be issued. This approval is essential to ensure your helper can legally work in your home, providing both you and your helper with peace of mind.

8. Prepare for arrival

Begin this step by arranging transportation from the airport to your home, ensuring she has a comfortable journey. Next, prepare suitable accommodation within your home, providing a clean, private space where she can rest and store her belongings. 

Once she arrives, conduct a thorough orientation to introduce her to your household. This orientation should cover house rules, daily routines, and specific job expectations, helping her understand her role and responsibilities. 

9. Manage and support your maid

Effectively managing and supporting your maid is key to fostering a productive and positive working relationship. Maintain regular communication to ensure she understands her tasks and feels comfortable discussing any issues.

Providing constructive feedback helps her improve and feel valued in her role. Offering training in areas where she may need further development can enhance her skills and efficiency. 

Additionally, handling disputes professionally and calmly is crucial. Address any conflicts or misunderstandings promptly to prevent them from escalating. Support services like the Foreign Domestic Worker Association for Social Support and Training (FAST) can provide valuable assistance in managing and supporting your maid effectively.

Can a foreigner hire a maid in Singapore?

Yes, a foreigner can hire a maid in Singapore, provided they meet certain eligibility criteria set by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). 

✔ Foreigners must hold a valid Employment Pass, S Pass, Dependant’s Pass, or Long-Term Visit Pass. 

✔ They must meet a minimum income requirement, ensuring they have the financial capacity to employ a domestic helper.

The hiring process involves applying for a work permit, adhering to MOM regulations, and providing mandatory benefits such as medical insurance, rest days, and suitable accommodation.

Handy Resources for Direct Hiring a Domestic Helper in Singapore

These resources can assist you in navigating the process of hiring a domestic helper directly, ensuring compliance with regulations and finding the right fit for your household needs.

Ministry of Manpower (MOM) – Employers’ Guide

Website

Read this comprehensive guide as it provides all the necessary information about hiring and managing a foreign domestic worker, including eligibility criteria, application procedures, and legal obligations.

HelperChoice

Website

This is an online platform that connects employers with potential domestic helpers. It offers tools for job posting, candidate search, and direct communication.

Maid in Singapore Facebook Group

Website

This group is a community network where employers can find domestic helpers through recommendations and posts. It’s a useful platform for seeking advice and sharing experiences.

Foreign Domestic Worker Association for Social Support and Training (FAST)

Website

This organisation provides resources and training for both employers and domestic helpers. They offer courses, support services, and mediation in case of disputes.

SGHomeNeeds

Website

This is an online directory for various home services, including direct hiring of domestic helpers. It provides listings of available helpers and contact information.

Anisya

Website

This is a platform that empowers employers and domestic helpers to connect directly. It offers profiles of available helpers, job postings, and tools for secure communication.

FDW Matching Portal

Website

This is a service by the Ministry of Manpower that allows employers to search for available foreign domestic workers based on specific criteria and match them directly.

Ministry of Helpers

Website

This is an online platform that connects employers with domestic helpers seeking employment in Singapore. It provides a user-friendly interface for browsing helper profiles and job postings and facilitating direct communication between employers and candidates.