Frequently asked questions

A helper can support your household with domestic chores, cooking, cleaning, laundry and caregiving for children or elderly family members. The exact responsibilities should be clearly discussed and agreed upon with the helper.

Yes. Many families hire helpers to support with feeding, bathing, preparing meals, school routines, laundry and general childcare. For infants, it is particularly important to assess whether the helper has relevant newborn or childcare experience.

Yes. A helper can provide day-to-day support such as preparing meals, accompanying an elderly person, helping with mobility and assisting with activities of daily living. If your parent requires specialised medical or nursing care, you should assess whether a domestic helper is appropriate or whether trained professional care is also required.

Yes, provided the workload is reasonable and clearly defined. If the helper needs to care for your child or parent at a relative's home, additional MOM requirements apply.

Your total cost typically includes the helper's salary, monthly foreign worker levy, insurance, medical expenses, placement or agency fees where applicable, and other employment-related costs. To get an accurate quote, please provide your details on our form.

Generally, an employer must be at least 21 years old, not an undischarged bankrupt, and have the mental capacity to fulfil their responsibilities as an employer. MOM also considers the household's caregiving needs and financial ability to support the helper. First-time employers must complete the Employer Orientation Programme.

Singapore allows MDWs from approved source countries and regions, including Indonesia, the Philippines, Myanmar, Bangladesh, Cambodia, India, Sri Lanka and Thailand, among others. Helpers must also meet MOM's age and education requirements.

Yes. A helper is entitled to one rest day per week, mutually agreed between the employer and helper. At least one rest day per month cannot be compensated away.

Yes. Employers are responsible for their helper's medical needs and must purchase the required medical and personal accident insurance. The required medical insurance has a minimum annual claim limit of $60,000, while personal accident insurance must have at least $60,000 annual coverage.

Don't choose based purely on nationality or years of experience. Match the helper to your actual household requirements. For example: • Infant care: newborn experience, feeding, bathing, night routines • Elder care: patience, mobility assistance, elderly companionship, cooking • General household: cleaning, cooking, laundry and household organisation • Mixed care: ability to prioritise multiple family members and manage routines For higher-care households, experience and temperament are often more important than simply finding the cheapest candidate.