Employing a domestic helper in Singapore comes with legal responsibilities, and one of the key duties of an employer is handling the cancellation of the helper’s Work Permit correctly. Whether your helper is finishing her contract, returning home, or transferring to a new employer, you must follow the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) procedures to avoid penalties.
This guide walks you through when and how to cancel a domestic helper’s Work Permit, along with important steps to take before and after cancellation.
When Should You Cancel a Domestic Helper’s Work Permit?
Employers are required to cancel a helper’s Work Permit under these circumstances:
- End of employment contract – when the helper is no longer working for you.
- Returning home permanently – if the helper chooses not to continue employment in Singapore.
- Transfer to another employer – when your helper has secured a new employer through MOM’s approval.
- Permit expiry with no renewal – if you decide not to renew the Work Permit.
Cancelling the permit on time ensures compliance with MOM regulations and prevents issues such as overstaying or fines.
Step 1: Prepare Before Cancellation
Before logging in to cancel, you should:
- Pay all outstanding salaries and benefits.
- Confirm your helper’s flight details if she is leaving Singapore.
- Inform her of the cancellation date in advance.
Step 2: Log In to MOM Portal
Go to the MOM Work Permit Online (WPOL) system.
- Log in using your Singpass.
- Select your helper’s Work Permit profile.
Step 3: Submit Cancellation Request
Enter the helper’s travel details (flight date and time if applicable).
- Confirm the date of cancellation.
- Submit the request through WPOL.
Step 4: Return the Work Permit Card
After cancellation, you must either:
- Cut the Work Permit card into half and dispose of it, or
- Return it to MOM as instructed.
Step 5: Ensure Proper Departure or Transfer
- If your helper is leaving Singapore, she must depart within 7 days after the cancellation date.
- If she is transferring, the new employer will take over her employment responsibilities.
What Happens After Cancelling the Work Permit?
Short-Term Visit Pass (STVP): MOM will issue an STVP for your helper, allowing her to remain in Singapore for up to 7 days until departure.
Security Bond Handling: If applicable, your security bond will be discharged after MOM confirms that the helper has left Singapore.
Insurance Policies: Cancel maid insurance, medical insurance, or other related policies that are no longer needed.
Record Keeping: Keep MOM’s confirmation notice for your records.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Canceling the Work Permit
Many employers face issues because they overlook these points:
- Cancelling the permit too early before your helper’s departure.
- Forgetting to purchase a return air ticket.
- Not paying salaries in full before cancellation.
- Missing MOM deadlines, which can result in fines.
Conclusion
Cancelling your domestic helper’s Work Permit is a serious employer responsibility that must be handled carefully to comply with MOM regulations. By settling all outstanding payments, applying through WPOL, and ensuring proper departure or transfer, you can avoid penalties while safeguarding your helper’s rights.
If you need professional guidance or prefer a smoother process, you can also reach out to trusted service providers like Human Dynamics, who specialize in domestic helper management in Singapore. They can help ensure every step of the cancellation process is done correctly and hassle-free.
