How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Maid In Singapore?

Hiring a domestic helper has become increasingly common in Singapore, especially for households balancing work, childcare, and eldercare responsibilities.

However, many first-time employers are often surprised to learn that the cost of hiring a maid in Singapore goes far beyond a monthly salary. From upfront agency fees to government levies and ongoing living expenses, the true cost can be complex and easy to underestimate.

This article breaks down every expense involved in hiring a maid, offering clear and practical insights for current and prospective employers. If you are planning ahead or comparing options, this guide aims to help you budget confidently and make informed decisions.

How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Maid In Singapore?

For most households, the first and most important question is simple: what is the actual cost of hiring a maid in Singapore? The short answer is that the total cost typically falls into two main categories , upfront (one-time) costs and ongoing monthly expenses.

Upfront Costs: What You Pay Before Your Maid Starts Work

At the beginning, employers should be prepared for an initial outlay. One-time costs often include maid agency fees, Ministry of Manpower (MOM) administrative fees, compulsory medical and personal accident insurance, the security bond, medical examinations, training programmes such as the Settling-In Programme (SIP), embassy processing fees, and travel-related expenses like airfare and temporary lodging.

For households hiring a new maid from overseas, these upfront costs can range from estimated SGD 2,000 (or lower) to SGD 4,000 (or higher) depending on the agency, maid’s nationality, maid’s experience & skill level, and urgency of placement.

Monthly And Recurring Costs: The Long-Term Commitment

Besides the initial payment, the monthly cost of hiring a maid in Singapore is what most families need to take note of

This includes the maid’s salary (commonly between SGD 500 and SGD 850+, depending on the experience and skill level), the Migrant Domestic Worker (MDW) levy (standard or concessionary), food and daily living expenses, rest day compensation if applicable, and personal care needs.

In addition, employers should factor in annual or biannual costs such as insurance renewals and six-monthly medical examinations (6ME), which are often overlooked but mandatory.

On average, estimated monthly expenses can range from SGD 1,000 to SGD 1,400 or more, depending on whether the maid provides specialised care such as elderly care, infant care, or patient care, which often commands higher wages.

A Quick Cost Snapshot For Busy Households

To put it simply:

• Upfront costs: ~SGD 2,000–4,000
• Monthly costs: ~SGD 1,000–1,400+

For local and expat households managing elderly care, infant care, pet care, or full-time housekeeping, these figures provide a realistic starting point.

While hiring a maid is a meaningful financial commitment, understanding the full cost picture early allows families to plan responsibly, avoid surprises, and decide whether full-time domestic support is the right solution for their home.

Breakdown Of One-Time Hiring Costs

Before a maid starts work in your household, employers in Singapore are required to settle several one-time hiring costs. These upfront expenses can feel substantial, especially for first-time employers, as they are paid before any monthly salary begins.

However, each cost serves a specific purpose, either to meet legal requirements, protect both employer and helper, or ensure a smooth and compliant hiring process. Understanding these expenses upfront helps local and expat households plan realistically and avoid unexpected financial pressure later on.

Maid Agency Fees

Maid agency fees usually make up the largest portion of upfront costs. These fees cover a wide range of services provided by the agency, including sourcing suitable candidates, conducting interviews, verifying work experience, handling documentation, and coordinating the placement process.

For overseas hires, agency fees may also include liaison with overseas partners, pre-employment training, and arrival arrangements.

Agency fees can vary significantly depending on several factors. These include the maid’s nationality, experience level, special skills such as elderly or infant care, and whether the helper is a transfer maid or a new hire from overseas.

Agencies with stronger screening processes, better training standards, and post-placement support may charge higher fees, but this often translates into fewer mismatches and lower replacement risks.

When comparing agency quotations, employers should look beyond the headline price. It is important to clarify what is included, such as replacement policies, follow-up support, and counselling, and what may be charged separately later.

Choosing a reputable agency can help reduce long-term costs by ensuring a more suitable and stable placement from the start.

MOM Administrative & Application Fees

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) requires specific administrative fees to process your helper’s legal work pass. These are fixed government costs that apply regardless of whether you hire through an agency or do it yourself.

• Work Permit Application: S$35. This is paid when you first submit your helper’s details for approval.
• Work Permit Issuance: S$35. This is paid once your helper has arrived in Singapore and passed her medical examination, allowing her official Work Permit card to be printed.
• Compliance: These fees ensure your helper is legally registered in the MOM system, which is essential for her to pass through immigration and begin her employment lawfully.

Medical Insurance, Compulsory Maid Insurance And Security Bond

As an employer, you are legally obligated to provide a robust insurance safety net for your helper. This is not just a regulatory hurdle; it is a critical safeguard for your personal finances.

• Medical Insurance: Following the latest enhancements, you must provide a minimum annual coverage of S$60,000 for hospitalisation and surgery. This ensures that large, unexpected medical bills don’t fall entirely on your shoulders.
• Personal Accident Insurance: You must maintain a sum assured of at least S$60,000 to provide compensation for your helper or her family in the event of permanent disability or accidental death.
• The S$5,000 Security Bond: This bond is a guarantee to the Singapore government that you and your helper will comply with the work permit conditions. Most employers do not pay this S$5,000 in cash; instead, it is covered by a Letter of Guarantee from your insurer for a small premium (often included in a S$450 – S$750 insurance package for 26 months).

Pro Tip: Consider adding a “Waiver of Counter Indemnity” (approx. S$55) to your policy. This limits your personal liability on the S$5,000 bond to just S$250 in the event of a breach that isn’t your fault.

The Settling-In Programme (SIP)

For any helper working in Singapore for the first time, the Settling-In Programme (SIP) is a mandatory one-day course that must be completed within seven days of her arrival.

• Purpose and Content: The programme is designed to bridge the cultural gap, educating helpers on Singapore’s strict laws, employment rights, and, most importantly, home safety (such as how to safely clean high-rise windows). It also covers relationship management to help her adapt to living in a new environment.
• Cost: The fee is approximately S$76 to S$93 (inclusive of GST), depending on the training centre.
• Why it Matters: This is a non-negotiable compliance cost. Your helper cannot have her Work Permit issued until she has attended this programme. It provides peace of mind that she understands the basic safety expectations of a Singaporean household.

Embassy Processing Fees

Beyond Singapore’s own regulations, the helper’s home country often requires its own set of documentation and contract verification to protect their citizens abroad.

• Variability by Nationality: These fees fluctuate depending on the embassy. For example, the Philippine Embassy requires an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) and contract authentication, while the Indonesian and Myanmar embassies have their own specific administrative levies and documentation costs.
• Estimated Cost: You should budget between S$200 and S$500 for these embassy-related expenses.
• Practical Tip: These costs are often bundled into your agency’s “service package,” but it is wise to ask for a breakdown so you can see exactly how much is being allocated to these official embassy requirements.

Employer’s Orientation Programme (EOP)

If you are hiring a domestic helper for the first time, you must personally complete the Employer’s Orientation Programme (EOP).

• What it Covers: This 3-hour session (or 2-hour online module) educates you on your legal responsibilities, such as the proper way to manage rest days, salary payments, and the emotional well-being of your helper. It is also required if you have changed helpers very frequently (e.g., three or more in a 12-month period).
• Cost: The online version typically costs S$35, while in-person classroom sessions range from S$40 to S$60.
• Why it Matters: You must complete this at least two working days before submitting a Work Permit application. It’s an essential step to ensure you are fully aware of the “dos and don’ts” of being a fair and legally compliant employer.

Airfare & Lodging Costs

Bringing a helper into Singapore involves significant logistical planning, especially if she is being recruited from a remote province overseas.

• Inbound Airfare: As the employer, you may be required to pay for the helper’s one-way flight to Singapore. Depending on the country of origin and how far in advance the flight is booked, this typically costs between S$200 and S$500.
• Transit Lodging: If your helper arrives late at night or needs to wait for a medical examination before moving into your home, she may need to stay at a dedicated boarding house or agency hostel. This can cost roughly S$25 to S$60 per night.

Monthly Expenses When Hiring A Maid In Singapore

While upfront costs are paid at the start, the monthly expenses of hiring a maid in Singapore are what households need to manage consistently over the long term. These recurring costs determine whether hiring a domestic helper is financially sustainable for your family.

Monthly Salary

A maid’s monthly salary is usually the largest recurring expense and varies based on several factors. Nationality plays a significant role, as helpers from different countries may have different minimum salary expectations due to training standards, experience, and market demand.

Experience level also matters, helpers with proven track records, strong references, or specialised caregiving skills often command higher wages.

Job scope further influences salary negotiations. Helpers responsible for elderly care, infant care, or bedridden patient care typically earn more due to the physical and emotional demands of the role.

Current market expectations generally range from SGD 500 to SGD 850 or more per month, depending on these factors. Understanding what drives salary differences helps employers negotiate fairly while remaining competitive in attracting and retaining a capable helper.

Migrant Domestic Worker (MDW) Levy

The levy is a monthly tax you pay to the Singapore government. It is a significant recurring cost that depends entirely on your household profile.

• Standard Rate: If you do not qualify for a concession, the levy is S$300 per month for your first helper and S$450 for any subsequent helpers.
• Concessionary Rate: Many households qualify for a heavily reduced rate of S$60 per month. You are eligible for this if you live with:
  • A child who is a Singapore Citizen under 16 years old.
  • An elderly family member (Singapore Citizen or PR) aged 67 or above.
  • A person with disabilities (PWD) who requires assistance with at least one Activity of Daily Living (ADL).
• Impact on Budget: The difference between the standard and concessionary rates is S$240 per month, which adds up to nearly S$3,000 a year. It is essential to ensure your household members’ NRIC addresses are updated to reflect the same residence to trigger this automatic discount.

Living Expenses (Food & Utilities)

Beyond the salary and tax, you are responsible for the “proper upkeep” of your helper. These indirect costs are often the most overlooked when families calculate their budgets.

• Food & Daily Necessities: You are legally required to provide three nutritious meals a day. Most families budget between S$200 and S$300 per month for additional groceries. Alternatively, some employers provide a monthly food allowance if the helper prefers to purchase her own cultural ingredients.
• Utility Bills: Expect an increase of roughly S$40 – S$80 in your monthly electricity and water bills. This accounts for more frequent laundry cycles, shower usage, and the use of fans or lights in the helper’s quarters.
• Toiletries and Basics: While some helpers buy their own personal items, it is standard practice (and often easier) to include basic toiletries like soap, shampoo, and toothpaste in the household grocery list.

Rest Day Compensation

In Singapore, every migrant domestic worker is legally entitled to one rest day per week. However, the way this is managed can significantly impact your monthly expenditure.

• The Mandatory Rest Day: As of 2026, MOM regulations mandate that at least one rest day per month cannot be compensated away. This ensures your helper has dedicated time to rest and recharge.
• Calculating Pay-in-Lieu: If you and your helper mutually agree for her to work on her remaining three rest days, you must compensate her with at least one day’s wage for each day worked.
  • The Formula: (Monthly Basic Salary ÷ 26) = 1 Day’s Compensation.
  • Example: If her salary is S$700, one rest day is worth roughly S$27. Working three rest days would add an extra S$81 to your monthly bill.
• Common Arrangements: Many households with high-demand needs, such as infant care or elderly care, negotiate for two or three rest days a month to be worked, providing a balance between the helper’s welfare and the family’s support requirements.

Medical And Personal Care Buffer

While your mandatory insurance covers major hospitalisation, the “day-to-day” healthcare of your helper is the employer’s responsibility. Setting aside a small monthly buffer prevents unexpected clinic visits from straining your finances.

• Outpatient Care: Common ailments like the flu, coughs, or minor skin irritations are not usually covered by basic insurance. A typical visit to a GP clinic in Singapore costs between S$30 and S$60.
• Dental and Optical: These are often excluded from standard maid insurance. If your helper requires a tooth extraction or new spectacles, these costs (ranging from S$100 to S$300) fall on the employer.
• Personal Care: While not legally mandated, many conversational and helpful employers provide a small monthly allowance or “starter kit” for feminine hygiene products and basic toiletries. Budgeting an extra S$20–S$40 for a “Medical & Care Fund” ensures you are always prepared.

Annualised Costs (Insurance & 6ME)

To get a truly accurate picture of your monthly “burn rate,” you should account for expenses that occur only once or twice a year. By “annualising” these, you avoid large, sudden hits to your bank account.

• Six-Monthly Medical Examination (6ME): Every six months, your helper must undergo a mandatory check-up to screen for pregnancy and infectious diseases. These sessions cost between S$30 and S$80 depending on the specific tests required for that cycle (e.g., HIV or TB screenings).
• Insurance Renewals: Your 26-month insurance policy (approx. S$450 – S$750) should be viewed as a monthly cost of about S$18–S$25.

5 Factors Affecting The Cost Of Hiring A Maid

The total cost of hiring a maid in Singapore isn’t fixed, it can vary from household to household. Understanding the key factors that influence cost helps employers plan effectively and make informed decisions.

For local and expat households managing elderly care, infant care, pet care, or full-time housekeeping, each factor plays a role in determining salary expectations, agency fees, and long-term affordability.

1. Nationality Of The Domestic Helper

The maid’s nationality is one of the primary factors affecting cost. Helpers from different countries often have varying minimum salary expectations, influenced by local regulations, training standards, and market demand.

For instance, maids from the Philippines are generally more experienced in childcare and caregiving roles, and speak better English, which can lead to slightly higher salaries compared to other nationalities. Conversely, maids from Indonesia or Myanmar may have lower starting salaries, but experience levels and specific skills still affect their salary.

Agencies may also charge different fees depending on nationality due to travel, processing, and overseas training requirements. Understanding these differences helps households compare options and select a helper that fits both their budget and specific care needs.

2. Experience Level And Track Record

Experience significantly impacts both monthly salary and agency fees. A maid with a proven track record, strong references, and several years of domestic or caregiving experience will often command a higher salary than a first-time helper.

Experienced helpers are typically more independent, understand household routines, and require less supervision, which can ultimately save time and reduce stress for employers.

For families needing specialised care, such as eldercare, infant care, or patient support, investing in an experienced helper may be more cost-effective in the long term, even if the upfront salary is higher.

Having said that, for families who do not mind to train and guide the maid to let her pick up on the job and language gradually, they can hire first time helpers to save on monthly cost. Many Singaporean families also find first time candidates more teachable/ trainable as they don’t come with past work experience and expectation.

3. Specialised Skills And Job Scope

The more complex the helper’s responsibilities, the higher the cost is likely to be. Specialised skills, such as cooking for specific diets, infant care, elderly care, or nursing experience, increase the value of a maid’s service.

Helpers with these capabilities often have higher wage expectations, and agencies may charge additional service fee and placement fees to source candidates with such expertise.

Households should clearly define the job scope early on, as underestimating the required skill set can result in higher costs later or the need for replacement helpers.

4. Your Eligibility For Government Concessions

The Singapore government provides levy concessions and grants that can significantly reduce the monthly cost of hiring a maid. Households with elderly family members, young children, or persons with disabilities may qualify for reduced MDW levies or financial support schemes.

Eligibility depends on factors such as family size, income, and the care requirements of dependents. By taking advantage of these concessions, employers can lower recurring expenses while still hiring skilled and experienced helpers.

It’s important to check the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and Agency for Integrated Care (AIC) websites to see which grants or concessions your household qualifies while finalising the hiring process.

Tips For Cost-Saving When Hiring A Maid In Singapore

Hiring a maid in Singapore involves some financial commitment, but there are several strategies households can use to reduce costs without compromising quality or compliance.

For local and expat families managing elderly care, infant care, pet care, or full-time housekeeping, smart planning can make hiring more affordable while ensuring your helper is reliable and well-prepared. Here are three practical cost-saving tips.

1. Hire A “Right Maid” For Your Household to Save on Monthly Salary

Experienced maids may not always be the ‘right’ maids for some families. While hiring an experienced maid often time means less time for the maid to pick up the job scopes and less guidance required, but it also means higher monthly salary for the maid.

Furthermore, some families find it easier to work with someone with less experience or even first time maids as they are generally less choosy on the job, and less demanding on the salary. If an employer is willing to patiently guide and train the maid, or there is someone home to supervise and teach the maid, less experienced/ first time maid can be a good choice.

For less experienced/ first timer Indonesian and Myanmar maids, one major issue is language barrier. However nowadays with advanced translation tools/ apps, the barrier has been lowered. Some families also have members who speak Bahasa/ Malay, which makes it easier for them to communicate with first timer Indonesian maids.

2. Tap Into Government Grants And Concessions

The Singapore government provides financial support to help households manage maid-related expenses, especially for families with caregiving needs.

Employers who hire helpers for elderly care, infant care, or persons with disabilities may be eligible for levy concessions, which reduce the monthly Migrant Domestic Worker (MDW) levy.

Other grants or subsidies may be available depending on household size, income, and specific care requirements. Taking advantage of these schemes can significantly lower both upfront and ongoing costs without affecting the quality of care.

It’s important to check the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and Agency for Integrated Care (AIC) websites for eligibility requirements and claim available savings to help alleviate the costs of hiring a maid/ caregiver.

3. Choose A Trusted Agency To Avoid “Replacement Costs”

Working with a reputable maid employment agency may seem more expensive initially, but it can save money in the long run. Unreliable agencies may place unsuitable helpers, resulting in costly replacements, delays, and additional administrative fees.

A trusted agency screens candidates carefully and ensures compliance with Singapore’s legal and regulatory requirements. They also provide post-placement support, which helps resolve issues before they escalate into contract termination or the need for a replacement.

By investing in a reputable agency upfront, employers can avoid hidden costs and protect the household from disruptions, making the hiring process smoother and more predictable.

Conclusion About The Cost Of Hiring A Maid In Singapore

Understanding the cost to hire a maid in Singapore requires looking beyond a single headline figure. As this guide has shown, the total cost is made up of both upfront expenses, such as agency fees, insurance, and government requirements, and ongoing monthly commitments like salary, levies, living expenses, and medical care.

These costs can vary depending on the helper’s nationality, experience, job scope, and whether you hire a transfer or new maid. Careful planning helps households avoid surprises and ensures that hiring a domestic helper remains a sustainable, long-term solution rather than a financial strain.

If you are looking for a trusted partner to guide you through this process, Inter Great Agency is a leading employment agency focused on domestic helpers and caregivers in Singapore. We believe in a meticulous match for a lasting bond, taking the time to understand your lifestyle and needs.

We work exclusively with reputable partners in the Philippines, Indonesia, and Myanmar, and many of our helpers come with relevant caregiving or nursing training for families requiring elderly or patient care.

From MOM applications and insurance to medicals and work permits, our experienced team manages every detail, offering a seamless and stress-free experience. With our one-time replacement policy (terms and conditions apply), we remain committed to successful placements that protect your family’s stability.

Contact Inter Great Employment Pte Ltd (EA Licence# 14C6931) today for a personalised consultation with a trusted employment agency focused on domestic helpers and caregivers in Singapore.

(Disclaimer by Inter Great: all above monetary figures are just ballpark figures meant for reference only, please consult our recruitment consultant if you need detailed breakdown of cost of hiring a maid from our agency.)

Frequently Asked Questions About The Cost Of Hiring A Maid In Singapore

Does The Employer Have To Pay For The Helper’s Spectacles Or Hearing Aids?

Generally, no. While you are responsible for medical costs related to “health and illness” (like infections or injuries), appliances like spectacles, hearing aids, or dentures are typically considered personal effects.

However, if an eye infection or injury occurs during work that necessitates these, the employer may be liable.

Are There Penalties If I Ask My Helper To Clean My Office Or My Relative’s Home?

Yes, and they are severe. A helper can only perform domestic chores at the residential address stated on her Work Permit. If you are caught “illegally deploying” her to a business or another home, you could face a fine and be banned from hiring a helper in the future.

When Am I Allowed To Hire A Second Helper In Singapore?

You are eligible to apply for a second helper only if you meet specific criteria: having at least two children under 18, a parent/parent-in-law over 60 living with you, or if you/your spouse are over 60. You must also prove the financial ability to pay for two salaries and two levies. It’s subject to MOM’s assessment and approval.

Can I Deduct A “Security Deposit” From My Helper’s Salary?

No. It is strictly illegal to deduct any form of “security deposit” or “bond money” from a helper’s salary. The S$5,000 security bond is an obligation between the employer and the government; the helper should not be made to pay for any part of it.