Here are answers to the most common questions from Singaporean employers. If you need specific advice, please contact us directly.
1. What is the difference between NEW and TRANSFER maids?
New Maids: These are helpers currently in their home country (e.g., Indonesia, Philippines, Myanmar). They require full immigration processing, medical screenings, and flight arrangements to enter Singapore. They are not available for face-to-face interviews, but can be interviewed via video call.
Transfer Maids: These are helpers who are already in Singapore and are finishing their contract or looking to change employers. They are available for face-to-face interviews, and the processing time is significantly faster as they already have valid passes.
2. Why should I engage a maid agency?
While you can hire directly, a licensed agency provides professional protection and convenience. We handle the complex documentation including:
- Work Permit applications and appeals
- Security Bonds and Medical Insurance
- Embassy contracts and home country requirements
- Logistics (flights, medical screenings, settling-in programs)
Most importantly, an agency acts as a mediator if disputes arise during the employment period.
3. What are the approved source countries for maids?
MOM approves Domestic Helpers from: Malaysia, the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, India, Bangladesh, and Cambodia.
4. What costs should I budget for?
Employing a helper involves several cost components. Please note that market rates fluctuate:
- Agency Fee: A one-time fee for our services (sourcing, processing, and matching).
- Placement Fee (Loan): This is an amount the helper borrows to pay for her overseas training/processing. The employer pays this upfront, and the helper repays it via salary deductions over 4-6 months.
- Helper’s Salary: Market rates currently average between S$500 to S$850+ depending on experience and nationality.
- MOM Levy: Currently S$60/month (Concessionary rate for families with young kids/elderly) or S$300/month (Standard rate for the first helper).
- Insurance & Bond: Mandatory medical and personal accident insurance (coverage of at least S$60,000) and security bonds.
- Living Expenses: Food, toiletries, and medical expenses for the helper.
5. Why is there a difference in agency fees across the market?
Prices vary based on the service level and the “Placement Fee” structure. Be cautious of agencies offering “Zero Agency Fee” or incredibly cheap packages. Often, these deals simply shift the cost to the helper, resulting in her having a higher debt burden (working many months without salary). This often leads to an unhappy helper and poor performance. At Sgmaid, we believe in fair pricing that ensures commitment from both the employer and the helper.
6. What is the minimum income to qualify for a maid?
MOM assesses your “financial ability” to hire, maintain, and upkeep a helper. While there is no strict published figure, a combined household income of at least S$30,000 annually is generally the benchmark for approval.
7. Can I hire a second maid?
Yes, subject to MOM approval. Generally, MOM grants approval for a second helper if you have significant caregiving needs, such as:
- Two or more children under 18 years old.
- A parent or parent-in-law over 60 years old living with you.
Still have questions?
We are here to help.
Call us: 9383-6773 or Email: hmding@sgmaid.com