Hiring a domestic helper can significantly ease the burden of daily responsibilities, especially for busy families, working parents, or those caring for elderly loved ones. In a fast-paced city like Singapore, having an extra pair of hands at home isn’t just a luxury—it’s often a necessity. However, while hiring a maid offers great convenience, it’s important to understand the true cost involved, including less obvious or hidden fees that may catch you off guard.
In this article, we’ll walk you through a complete cost breakdown of hiring a maid in Singapore, highlight commonly overlooked expenses, and provide tips on how to avoid unnecessary charges.
Understanding the Maid Hiring Process in Singapore
Before diving into costs, it’s essential to understand how the hiring process works. Employers typically go through a licensed maid agency, which facilitates the selection, documentation, and deployment of the helper.
Key steps include:
- Choosing a maid based on your household’s needs
- Submitting a work permit application to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM)
- Arranging for medical examinations and insurance
- Attending any mandatory training sessions (e.g. Employers’ Orientation Programme)
Each of these steps contributes to the overall cost.
Upfront Costs of Hiring a Maid
1. Agency Fees
Agency fees can vary depending on the services provided, such as candidate sourcing, interviews, documentation, and training. On average, this ranges from $1,000 to $3,000. Some agencies offer refund or replacement guarantees, which may increase the cost but provide peace of mind.
2. Work Permit Application Fee
This is a mandatory $35 fee paid to MOM when applying for a work permit.
3. Medical Examination Costs
New maids must undergo medical checkups upon arrival. This typically costs around $80 to $120.
4. Insurance and Security Bond
Employers must purchase maid insurance (covering hospitalization and personal accident) and submit a $5,000 security bond. The insurance premium can cost between $250 and $400 for a one- to two-year plan.
5. Settling-In Programme (SIP)
First-time helpers must attend this MOM-mandated program. The cost is $75, usually borne by the employer.
6. Arrival Airfare
If you’re hiring directly from overseas, you may need to cover the cost of the maid’s flight to Singapore. This varies by country but generally ranges from $150 to $500.
Recurring and Monthly Costs
1. Monthly Salary
Salaries depend on the maid’s nationality, experience, and language proficiency. Here’s a rough guide:
Myanmar: $450 – $550
Indonesia: $500 – $600
Philippines: $550 – $650
2. Foreign Domestic Worker Levy
MOM imposes a monthly levy of $300, but eligible households (e.g. with young children or elderly) may pay a concessionary rate of $60.
3. Medical Expenses
Maids must undergo six-monthly medical exams (6ME). Each visit may cost $60 to $100.
4. Food and Living Costs
These vary per household, but employers should budget around $200 to $300/month for food, utilities, and other basic living expenses.
5. Optional Allowances
Some employers offer a small phone or transport allowance, typically $20 to $50/month, as a goodwill gesture.
Hidden & Unexpected Fees to Watch Out For
While the basic costs are well-known, many employers are surprised by additional charges that may arise later:
Replacement Fees: If a maid turns out to be unsuitable and you require a replacement, agencies may charge a new matching or processing fee.
Work Permit Renewal Fees: Renewing a helper’s work permit costs $35, and new insurance may be required.
Repatriation Costs: Employers are responsible for sending the maid home at the end of her contract or upon termination.
Training & Skills Upgrade: If your helper requires extra training (e.g. eldercare, cooking), this is an added cost.
COVID-related Expenses: Depending on current regulations, testing or quarantine fees may apply for overseas hires.
Tips to Avoid Overpaying
Work with Transparent Agencies: Always request a full breakdown of fees upfront
Clarify Contracts: Understand the agency’s refund and replacement policies.
Use MOM Tools: Check salary benchmarks and levy entitlements using MOM’s official calculator.
Consider Direct Hire Only If Experienced: While direct hiring may save agency fees, it’s best for seasoned employers familiar with the process.
Why Choose Human Dynamics?
With over 30 years of experience in the maid agency industry, Human Dynamics has built a strong reputation for helping families in Singapore find reliable and compatible domestic helpers. We believe that a successful placement goes beyond just matching skills—it’s about understanding personalities, household dynamics, and long-term compatibility.
Through thorough interviews, careful screening, and dedicated training, we ensure every helper we recommend is well-prepared and suited to your family’s specific needs. Our personalised, detail-oriented approach has made us a trusted partner for many households across the country.
Let us simplify the process of hiring a maid—whether you need support with childcare, eldercare, or daily housework, we’ll help you find the right fit with confidence and ease.
👉 Get in touch with us today! Visit humandynamics.sg or call us for a consultation at +65 8075 4131 and make your next maid placement a seamless experience.
Conclusion
Choosing the right domestic helper is a deeply personal decision, shaped by your household’s unique lifestyle and preferences. Whether you’re considering a helper from Myanmar, Indonesia, or the Philippines, each nationality brings distinct strengths—ranging from adaptability and affordability to strong communication skills and caregiving experience.
If you’re starting your search or evaluating your options, partnering with a reliable, experienced agency can make all the difference. At Human Dynamics, we draw on over three decades of industry expertise to help you find the ideal match—efficiently, ethically, and with your family’s comfort in mind.
Let us help you bring the right support into your home—start your journey with Human Dynamics today.
