Guide to Hiring a Foreign Domestic Worker (FDW) in Singapore
A comprehensive, step-by-step guide for employers navigating the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) requirements.
⚠️ Important Notice: This guide is for informational purposes. Always verify the latest requirements, fees, and forms on the official Ministry of Manpower (MOM) website before proceeding.
1. Check Your Eligibility
Before you begin, ensure you meet MOM's criteria to hire an FDW:
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You must be a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident (PR).
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You must be at least 21 years old.
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You must not be an undischarged bankrupt.
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You must have the mental capacity to be held responsible for the FDW's employment conditions.
2. Step-by-Step Hiring Process
1
Attend the Mandatory Employers' Orientation Programme (MEOP)
First-time employers must complete the MEOP. This can now be done conveniently via the MEOP e-learning course on the MOM website. You will receive a certificate of completion, which is required for the work permit application.
2
Apply for In-Principle Approval (IPA)
Log in to the MOM FDW eService using your Singpass. Submit the Work Permit application. If approved, MOM will issue an IPA letter. The IPA is valid for 4 months and allows the FDW to enter Singapore (if applying from overseas).
3
Purchase Required Insurance
Before issuing the Work Permit, you must buy:
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Medical Insurance: Minimum coverage of $15,000 per year for inpatient care and day surgery.
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Personal Accident Insurance: Minimum coverage of $60,000 per year.
4
Post the $5,000 Security Bond
You must purchase a $5,000 security bond from an approved insurance company. This bond ensures you comply with MOM's work permit conditions. (Note: PR employers hiring their first FDW may need to post the bond in cash or cashier's order.
5
FDW Medical Examination
The FDW must undergo a mandatory medical examination at an MOM-approved clinic in Singapore within 14 days of arriving in Singapore or before the Work Permit is issued. This includes tests for pregnancy, HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria.
6
Issue the Work Permit
Once the medical results are cleared and all documents (insurance, bond, MEOP certificate) are in order, log back into the FDW eService to issue the Work Permit. This must be done within 2 weeks of the FDW's arrival in Singapore.
3. Ongoing Employer Responsibilities
Hiring an FDW comes with continuous legal obligations. Ensure you comply with the following:
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Monthly Levy: Pay the FDW levy on time every month. Concessionary rates may apply if you have young children or elderly family members living with you.
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Rest Days: You must grant your FDW at least one rest day per week. If both parties agree, compensation can be provided in lieu of a rest day, but this must be clearly documented.
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Timely Salary Payment: Pay the agreed salary by the stipulated date each month. Provide an itemized payslip.
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Adequate Food and Accommodation: Provide acceptable living conditions and sufficient food.
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Keep Records: Maintain a copy of the FDW's passport, Work Permit, and employment contract at your residence.