Hiring a domestic helper in Singapore is more than just getting extra hands at home. As an employer, you are legally responsible for the wellbeing, fair treatment, and proper management of your helper. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) regularly updates the rules to protect both helpers and employers, and staying informed is crucial.
In 2025, there are new updates and continued enforcement about Singapore maid regulations on key areas like rest days, insurance coverage, levy payments, and employer responsibilities. In this article, we break down everything you need to know about the latest MOM rules and what they mean for you.
1. Employer Eligibility & Requirements
Before hiring a helper, you must meet certain requirements:
- Be at least 21 years old.
- Not be an undischarged bankrupt.
- Have the financial ability to hire, pay, and maintain a helper.
- First-time employers must attend the Employer Orientation Programme (EOP).
These requirements ensure that only responsible individuals take on the role of an employer.
👉 Official MOM Employer Requirements
2. Work Permit Rules
Every helper in Singapore must hold a valid Work Permit (WP) issued by MOM.
Key rules include:
- The helper can only work at your residential address (as declared to MOM).
- They are strictly allowed to do domestic work only — not part-time jobs or external work.
- Application requires a security bond, medical insurance, and personal accident insurance.
👉 MOM Guide to FDW Work Permit
3. Rest Day Requirements
Since 1 January 2023, MOM requires that every helper gets at least one mandatory rest day per month that cannot be compensated away.
For the remaining rest days, if your helper agrees to work, you must:
- Compensate them with one day’s salary, OR
- Provide a replacement rest day within the same month.
This ensures helpers receive proper rest and mental wellbeing.
👉 Rest Day Policy Details
4. Salary, Insurance & Medical Obligations
Salary
- Pay helpers on time, within 7 days after the salary period ends.
- Do not make unauthorized deductions.
- Consider digital transfer (bank or PayNow) for transparency.
Insurance
Employers must buy two types of insurance before the helper arrives:
- Medical insurance – at least S$15,000/year for inpatient care.
- Personal accident insurance – at least S$60,000/year.
From 1 July 2025, MOM will enforce stricter maid insurance rules:
- Insurers must pay hospitals directly instead of reimbursement.
- Clearer exclusions so employers know exactly what’s covered.
Medical Check-ups
Helpers must undergo a six-monthly medical examination (6ME). Failure to comply can result in fines or cancellation of the work permit.
👉 MOM Insurance & Medical Rules
5. Accommodation & Welfare Rules
As an employer, you must provide proper living conditions for your helper:
- Adequate shelter and privacy.
- Proper bedding and sufficient ventilation.
- Three meals per day, taking into account religious and dietary restrictions.
- Respect their privacy — if CCTV cameras are installed, do not place them in sleeping or bathing areas, and always inform your helper.
These rules are designed to ensure helpers are treated with dignity and respect.
👉 Helper Rights & Employer Duties
6. Levy, Bond & Penalties in Singapore Maid Regulations
Foreign Domestic Worker (FDW) Levy
- Standard monthly levy: S$300.
- Concessionary levy: S$60 (for families with young children, elderly, or disabled members, subject to approval).
Security Bond
- For each non-Malaysian helper, a S$5,000 security bond is required.
- The bond may be forfeited if you or your helper breach MOM’s conditions.
Penalties for Non-Compliance in Singapore Maid Regulations
- Employers who break rules face fines, debarment, and work permit cancellation.
- Serious cases (abuse, illegal deployment) can result in imprisonment under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act.
7. New Updates in 2025 about Singapore Maid Regulations
The key change this year revolves around maid insurance (effective 1 July 2025):
- Direct billing: hospitals claim directly from insurers, easing financial burden on employers.
- Clear exclusions: better transparency in what insurance covers.
- Higher minimum coverage expected for some medical cases.
This update is aimed at giving families peace of mind while strengthening helper protection.
👉 Maid Insurance 2025 Update
8. Tips to Stay Compliant with Singapore Maid Regulations
- Keep salary records and rest day agreements.
- Communicate openly with your helper about welfare and expectations.
- Always check MOM’s website for the latest rule changes.
- Use licensed maid agencies like EELIT to manage paperwork, training, and compliance.
Conclusion about Singapore Maid Regulations
The role of a domestic helper in Singapore homes is vital, but so is the employer’s responsibility. With new updates in 2025, particularly around rest days, insurance, and welfare, employers must ensure they comply fully with MOM rules.
At EELIT Agency, we pride ourselves on being one of the lowest transfer rate maid agencies in Singapore, meaning our careful matching process ensures stable, trusted placements that last.
👉 Contact EELIT today to find your perfect helper, and have peace of mind knowing your placement is fully compliant with MOM regulations.