Hiring a Foreign Domestic Worker (FDW) can greatly improve daily life by supporting childcare, eldercare, and household management. However, many employers in Singapore are unsure about what their helper is legally allowed — and not allowed — to do under employment regulations.
Understanding the official guidelines set by the Ministry of Manpower Singapore (MOM) is essential. Assigning tasks outside an FDW’s permitted scope may lead to penalties, work permit issues, or restrictions on hiring future helpers.
This guide explains clearly what your maid can and cannot do legally in Singapore so you can stay compliant while maintaining a respectful and productive working relationship.
What Is a Foreign Domestic Worker (FDW) Legally Allowed to Do?
An FDW is hired specifically to perform domestic duties within the employer’s registered household. These tasks generally fall into three main categories.
Core Household Duties
Your helper may legally assist with:
- General house cleaning and tidying
- Cooking and meal preparation
- Laundry and ironing
- Grocery shopping and household errands
- Organising the home
These responsibilities form the foundation of domestic employment in Singapore.
Caregiving Support Roles
Many employers hire helpers primarily for caregiving. FDWs are allowed to assist with:
- Looking after infants and young children
- Supporting elderly family members
- Assisting persons with mobility needs
- Monitoring medication routines (non-medical supervision)
However, helpers are not trained nurses and should not be assigned medical procedures unless qualified.
Household-Related Errands
Helpers may also:
- Accompany children to school
- Escort elderly family members to appointments
- Run errands connected to the employer’s home
As long as the tasks relate directly to household needs, they are generally permitted.
What Your Maid Cannot Do Legally in Singapore
Singapore’s regulations clearly restrict FDWs from performing work outside domestic duties. Employers should be especially careful about the following prohibited activities.
Working Outside the Registered Residential Address
Your helper is only allowed to work at the address stated on her Work Permit.
She cannot:
- Clean your relative’s home regularly
- Help at a second property
- Work at a friend’s house
Special approval from MOM is required in limited caregiving situations.
Working for Multiple Households
Even if relatives live nearby, helpers cannot rotate between homes.
For example, your helper cannot:
- Clean your parents’ house weekly
- Cook for siblings living elsewhere
- Provide childcare at another residence
Each helper is legally tied to one employer household only.
Helping in Your Business
This is one of the most common violations.
FDWs are not allowed to assist with:
- Retail shops
- Food stalls or home bakeries
- Office administration
- Packing online store orders
Even informal or part-time business help is prohibited.
Taking Part-Time Jobs
Helpers cannot accept additional employment outside your household — whether paid or unpaid.
Examples include:
- Weekend cleaning jobs
- Freelance caregiving
- Helping neighbours regularly
Their Work Permit allows employment only under their registered employer.
Performing Skilled or Commercial Work
Domestic helpers are not hired as specialists.
They should not be assigned:
- Academic tutoring
- Electrical or repair work
- Professional caregiving services
- Commercial cooking activities
Assigning such duties may breach employment regulations.
Can a Maid Work at Your Relative’s House?
In certain caregiving situations, helpers may assist at another address — but only under strict conditions.
Typically, approval is required when:
- Caring for elderly parents
- Supporting young children temporarily
- Assisting immediate family members with special needs
Employers must inform MOM and obtain consent before arranging such work.
Without approval, the arrangement becomes illegal.
Can Your Maid Care for Pets, Wash Cars, or Do Gardening?
Some tasks fall into a grey area but are generally acceptable if they remain reasonable household duties.
Usually allowed:
- Feeding pets
- Washing family cars occasionally
- Basic gardening
Usually not allowed:
- Managing large landscaping work
- Maintaining multiple vehicles commercially
- Caring for pets belonging to neighbours or relatives
When in doubt, it’s best to keep tasks clearly household-related.
Rest Days, Working Hours, and Welfare Rules Employers Must Follow
Beyond job scope, employers are also responsible for protecting their helper’s welfare.
Mandatory Rest Days
FDWs are entitled to:
- At least one rest day per month
- Additional rest days if agreed in the contract
Providing adequate rest helps maintain long-term productivity and well-being.
Accommodation, Food, and Medical Care
Employers must provide:
- Proper accommodation
- Daily meals
- Medical care when needed
- Personal safety and privacy
These are legal obligations under MOM regulations.
Salary and Employment Agreement Expectations
Employers should:
- Pay salaries on time
- Follow the employment contract
- Respect agreed duties
- Avoid assigning non-permitted tasks
Clear expectations reduce misunderstandings and disputes.
Consequences of Assigning Illegal Tasks to Your Helper
Violating FDW employment rules can lead to serious penalties.
Possible consequences include:
- Fines from MOM
- Suspension of hiring privileges
- Work Permit cancellation
- Permanent restrictions on employing helpers
Maintaining compliance protects both employer and helper.
How Employers Can Stay Compliant with MOM Regulations
The best way to avoid issues is to set expectations early and manage responsibilities properly.
Helpful steps include:
1. Define duties clearly from the start
Make sure responsibilities remain household-focused.
2. Communicate respectfully and regularly
Good communication builds trust and reduces misunderstandings.
3. Seek advice when unsure
Consult a licensed maid agency before assigning unfamiliar tasks.
Why Choosing the Right Maid Agency Helps Avoid Legal Issues
A reliable maid agency plays an important role in ensuring smooth employment.
An experienced placement partner can:
- Recommend helpers suited to your household needs
- Explain MOM regulations clearly
- Assist with documentation and permits
- Support transfer maid arrangements
- Guide employers through compliance requirements
Conclusion
Understanding what your maid can and cannot do legally in Singapore protects everyone involved. Employers stay compliant with regulations, helpers work within clear expectations, and households enjoy smoother daily routines.
If you’re planning to hire a helper or need guidance on compliant employment practices, you can call us at Human Dynamics. We can make the process simpler, safer, and more efficient.
