In Singapore, understanding maid home leave entitlement is essential for both employers and foreign domestic workers (FDWs). Home leave allows maids to return to their home country, rest, and spend time with family, which helps maintain their well-being and productivity.
For employers, planning and managing home leave ensures compliance with Singapore regulations while minimising disruption at home.
This guide covers everything you need to know about maid home leave entitlement in Singapore, including the number of leave days, eligibility criteria, the step-by-step application process, expected costs, levy waivers, and practical tips to plan home leave efficiently and smoothly.
How Many Days Of Home Leave Can A Maid Take In Singapore?
In Singapore, there is no fixed number of home leave days mandated by law for foreign domestic workers (FDWs). Instead, the duration of home leave is largely determined by the employment contract agreed between the employer and the maid.
Most contracts allow home leave after the maid completes a significant period of service, commonly at the end of a 2-year contract, though some employers may allow it earlier as a goodwill arrangement.
Typically, home leave ranges from 2 to 4 weeks, giving the maid enough time to rest, visit family, and attend to personal matters back home. However, this duration can vary depending on several factors.
For example, maids from certain countries may require additional time to complete embassy or government clearance, which can extend the overall leave period. Employers caring for elderly parents, infants, or pets may also negotiate shorter or staggered leave to reduce disruption at home.
Ultimately, home leave arrangements should balance the household’s care needs with the maid’s well-being. Clear communication and written agreement on the leave duration help prevent misunderstandings and ensure a smooth transition before and after the leave.
Eligibility Criteria For Maid Home Leave In Singapore
Not every maid can apply for home leave immediately. Below is a clear checklist of common eligibility requirements that employers should review before planning overseas leave:
- Minimum Length of Service Met: Most employers allow home leave only after the maid has completed a minimum period of employment, often close to the end of a contract term.
- Valid Employment Contract: The home leave arrangement must align with the terms stated in the signed employment contract or any mutually agreed amendments.
- Active and Valid Work Permit: The maid must hold a valid Work Permit and be eligible to return to Singapore after her leave.
- Passport Validity: Her passport should be valid for at least six months to avoid travel or re-entry issues.
- Good Employment Standing: The maid should not be involved in unresolved disputes, disciplinary matters, or pending work permit cancellations.
- Country-Specific Clearance Requirements Met: Some nationalities require embassy approval or exit documentation before travelling home.
- Employer’s Consent and Planning Readiness: Employers must be prepared for temporary caregiving arrangements, especially for elderly family members, infants, or pets.
Meeting these criteria early makes the home leave process far less stressful and helps ensure continuity of care at home while supporting your maid’s right to rest and family time.
Home Leave Application Process For Maids In Singapore
Sending your helper home requires a bit more than just booking a flight on a comparison site. Unlike a standard holiday, a domestic worker’s travel involves specific “exit and entry” clearances to ensure she remains a documented worker throughout her journey.
Think of this phase as a logistical project, miss one document, and she might be stopped at immigration on her way back.
Here is your step-by-step guide to navigating the process without the stress.
Decide The Leave Dates And Timing
The first step is a practical discussion. While your helper might be eager to fly home for a specific festival, you need to balance her wishes with your household’s survival. It is vital to lock these dates in early so you can make alternative arrangements for caregiving or housekeeping.
- Check Your Calendar First: Before agreeing to dates, look at your family schedule. Is it the school holidays? Do you have a major work trip or a deadline approaching? Avoid scheduling her leave during your “peak crisis” times to prevent household burnout.
- Agree on the Exact Duration: Be crystal clear about how long she will be away. If the standard paid leave is 15 days, but she wants to stay for 25 days, establish upfront that the extra 10 days will be unpaid. This prevents salary disputes later.
- Buffer for Delays: We recommend scheduling her return date at least 2–3 days before she is critically needed (e.g., before school reopens). This gives her time to unpack, rest, and reset her body clock before jumping back into the 6 am routine.
- Sign a “Home Leave Agreement”: To avoid the “I thought I could stay longer” conversation, type up a simple document. It should state:
- The Departure Date.
- The Confirmed Return-to-Work Date.
- The total number of Paid vs. Unpaid Leave days.
- Both signatures.
Prepare And Check All Required Documents
Once the dates are set, the “Document Sprint” begins. The most common reason helpers are denied boarding is expired paperwork. You essentially need to prove to two governments (Singapore and her home country) that she is legally employed and allowed to travel.
Ensure you have the physical originals and digital copies of the following:
- Passport Validity (The Golden Rule): Check that her passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond her expected return date. If it expires while she is away, she will be stuck.
- The Work Permit Card: She must carry her physical Work Permit card with her. She will need it to scan through the automated lanes at Changi Airport and to prove her residency status when checking in for her return flight.
- The Employment Contract: If she is renewing her contract, ensure you have the new, signed standard employment contract. For many nationalities, this document is the “ticket” to getting her overseas clearances.
- SG Arrival Card (Electronic): Remind her (or help her) to submit the SG Arrival Card online up to 3 days before she returns to Singapore. It is no longer a physical white card.
Embassy Or Consulate Application
This is often the most confusing part for employers. While you don’t “apply” to MOM for home leave, your helper may need to “apply” to her own government for permission to return to work abroad. The requirements vary significantly by nationality.
- For Filipino Helpers (The OEC Requirement):
- The Critical Document: She needs an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC). Without this, Philippine immigration will not allow her to board the plane back to Singapore.
- The Process: If she is returning to the same employer, she is a “Balik Manggagawa”. She should register via the DMW (Department of Migrant Workers) online portal (formerly POEA) to get an exemption or appointment.
- Contract Verification: If she has renewed her contract, she may need to visit the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Singapore to get the contract verified before she flies. This usually requires an appointment and a small fee.
- OWWA Membership: Check if her OWWA membership is active; if not, it must be renewed (approx. SGD $36).
- For Indonesian Helpers:
- Contract Endorsement: It is highly advisable to have the employment contract endorsed by the Indonesian Embassy in Singapore. This serves as proof of legitimate employment if questioned by Indonesian immigration.
- KPIS / KTKLN: Ensure she has her worker identification card (e-KTKLN) or proof of insurance protection (KPIS).
- Passport Renewal: If her passport has less than 6 months validity, she must renew it at the embassy in Singapore before travel. The processing time can take several weeks, so do not leave this until the last minute.
Airline Booking And Travel Preparations
Once embassy approval is secured, the next step is arranging flights and preparing your maid for a smooth departure and return. Airfares can vary significantly, so booking 2–3 months in advance is strongly recommended.
This is especially important if the home leave falls during peak travel periods such as Christmas, Chinese New Year, or Hari Raya, when prices rise quickly and flight availability becomes limited.
When booking, aim for direct or minimal-transit flights to reduce travel fatigue, particularly for maids who may not travel frequently. Confirm both departure and return dates clearly, as these dates are often required for levy waiver applications and medical exam scheduling.
Make sure your maid carries all essential documents in her hand luggage, including her passport, work permit or digital pass, employment contract copy, and embassy clearance papers. A simple document checklist can go a long way in preventing last-minute stress at the airport.
Optional: Postpone Mandatory Medical Examination
One of the most common administrative headaches is when the MOM 6-Monthly Medical Examination (6ME) notice arrives just as your helper is packing her bags. If the due date falls while she is overseas, you must take action to avoid penalties.
- Check the Due Date Early:
- Log in to the MOM FDW eService to check her upcoming 6ME due date before finalizing her leave dates.
- Ideally, if the due date is close, send her for the check-up before she flies.
- Applying for Deferment (If She Cannot Go Beforehand):
- If the dates clash and she cannot attend the medical exam, you must apply for a deferment (postponement) to avoid your security bond being liable or incurring a fine.
- How to do it:
- Log in to the MOM FDW eService using your Singpass.
- Locate the section for “Medical Examination”.
- Select the option to request a deferment/extension.
- You may need to upload a copy of her flight ticket as proof that she is out of the country.
- Important: Do this before the medical exam deadline passes. Do not wait until you receive a late notice.
During Absence & Post-Return
During your maid’s absence, advance preparation helps keep the household running smoothly. Arrange temporary caregiving support if you are caring for elderly parents, infants, or pets, and create simple written instructions for daily routines if other family members are stepping in.
After your maid returns to Singapore, ensure she passes immigration smoothly and resumes work as usual. Check that her work permit remains valid and keep copies of her travel records.
If her home leave lasted seven or more consecutive days, remember to mark your calendar to apply for a levy waiver through MOM’s eService. Applying promptly helps you recover eligible levy charges and close the home leave process efficiently.
With proper planning, home leave can be a positive and well-managed experience for both employers and helpers.
What Are The Costs Employers Should Expect For Maid Home Leave?
Budgeting for your helper’s home leave involves more than just a quick scan of flight prices. Whether it is part of a contract renewal or a compassionate visit, there is a mix of upfront payments, government fees, and “hidden” operational costs that can add up.
Being prepared financially ensures you aren’t caught off guard by a sudden request for embassy fees or transit cash.
Here is a breakdown of what you should expect to spend.
Major Travel Expenses
The largest portion of home leave costs usually comes from travel-related expenses, which are commonly covered by employers unless stated otherwise in the employment contract.
Airfare is the most significant cost and varies depending on destination, travel season, and how early tickets are booked.
Flights during peak periods such as Christmas or Hari Raya can be considerably more expensive, which is why early booking is strongly encouraged. Some employers also choose flexible or changeable tickets in case return dates need adjustment.
Travel insurance is another cost to consider. While not mandatory, it is highly recommended as it can cover medical emergencies, travel delays, or lost luggage while the maid is overseas.
Additional transport expenses, such as airport transfers or domestic travel within the home country, may also arise depending on flight routes and transit requirements.
Government & Embassy Fees (Nationality Dependent)
In addition to travel costs, there may be government or embassy-related fees, which vary depending on the maid’s nationality.
Some embassies require exit clearances, consular endorsements, or overseas employment documentation before allowing the maid to travel. These fees are usually fixed but can change, so it is advisable to check directly with the relevant embassy.
Certain nationalities may also need visa-related processing or document authentication, which can add to the overall cost.
While these fees are generally not large individually, they can add up if multiple documents or in-person appointments are required. Planning for these expenses early helps avoid last-minute delays or unexpected payments.
Operational Costs
Operational costs are often overlooked but can significantly impact households that rely heavily on daily assistance.
During the maid’s absence, families may need to hire temporary help, engage part-time caregivers for elderly family members, or arrange additional childcare support. Households with pets may incur boarding or pet-sitting fees. In some cases, family members may need to take time off work, leading to indirect productivity loss.
There may also be increased household expenses if tasks are outsourced, such as laundry services or food deliveries. While these costs are temporary, factoring them into your budget ensures that home leave remains manageable without compromising care or household routines.
3 Tips For Planning Maid Home Leave Efficiently
With the right approach, maid home leave can be planned in a way that supports your helper’s well-being without causing unnecessary stress at home.
For households juggling elderly care, infant routines, pets, and daily chores, efficiency is key. The tips below focus on early preparation, smart timing, and clear communication, helping you manage home leave smoothly and cost-effectively.
1. The “6-Month Rule” & Document Sprint (Do This 2 Months Early)
Think of home leave planning as a countdown rather than a last-minute task. A good rule of thumb is to review your maid’s documents six months before her intended leave and start preparing everything at least two months in advance.
Begin by checking her passport validity, work permit expiry date, and employment contract terms. Some embassies have strict requirements or limited appointment slots, so completing documents early avoids unnecessary delays.
Create a simple checklist for embassy forms, consent letters, and travel details, and aim to submit everything in one go rather than making multiple trips. This “document sprint” saves time, reduces stress, and lowers the risk of missing critical paperwork.
2. Strategic Scheduling To Save Costs & Coverage
Timing can make a big difference to both costs and household disruption. Where possible, avoid peak travel seasons such as school holidays, Christmas, or major festive periods, when airfares and processing times are higher. Off-peak months often offer more affordable flights and smoother embassy appointments.
From a household perspective, plan home leave during periods when care demands are lighter. For example, align leave with times when family members can work from home, children are in school, or alternative caregiving support is readily available.
Strategic scheduling helps maintain continuity of care for elderly parents, infants, or pets, while also keeping costs under control.
3. Create A “Survival Manual” For Your Family
A simple “survival manual” can be a lifesaver while your maid is away. This does not need to be complicated, just a clear, written guide covering daily routines and key responsibilities.
Include essential information such as meal plans, medication schedules for elderly family members, feeding routines for infants or pets, cleaning priorities, and emergency contacts. If different family members are sharing duties, clearly assign tasks to avoid confusion.
Having everything written down reduces stress, prevents important tasks from being missed, and makes the transition back to normal routines much smoother once your maid returns.
Conclusion About Maid Home Leave Entitlement In Singapore
Ultimately, managing maid home leave entitlement in Singapore is about more than just ticking boxes on a government checklist. It is an investment in your helper’s well-being. A helper who returns from seeing her family often comes back with renewed energy, higher morale, and a greater commitment to your household.
We encourage you to start these conversations early; viewing home leave as a partnership benefit rather than a disruption sets the tone for a long, trusting relationship.
If you are looking for a partner to support you through this journey, or perhaps need a new helper to join your family, Inter Great Agency is here to assist. As a leading domestic helper agency in Singapore, our entire service is built on the promise of a meticulous match for a lasting bond.
We don’t just place helpers; we listen carefully to your lifestyle needs, whether it is certified elderly care for ageing loved ones, experienced infant and child care, or all-round housekeeping.
We work exclusively with reputable partners in the Philippines, Indonesia, and Myanmar to provide candidates with relevant training and high standards.
Consider us your personal concierge: we manage every detail, from MOM applications to insurance, guiding you through a simple 4-step journey to welcome your helper home.
With a commitment to successful placements that includes a replacement policy (terms & conditions apply), we ensure your family’s stability is always protected.
Contact Inter Great Employment Pte Ltd (14C6931) today for employment agencies 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 Maid Home Leave Entitlement In Singapore
How Do I Proceed If She Discovers She Is Pregnant While On Home Leave?
You must report this to MOM immediately. Since foreign domestic workers are not permitted to deliver a child in Singapore (unless married to a Singaporean/PR), she will likely be unable to return to work.
Should this happen, you will need to cancel her Work Permit while she is still overseas to avoid violating employment regulations and to discharge your levy liabilities.
Do Her Weekly Rest Days Accumulate If She Wants To Extend Her Home Leave Duration?
No, rest days are meant for weekly recuperation and generally do not accumulate like annual leave. How you manage this depends on mutual agreement; while she cannot demand to “cash in” missed rest days for a longer holiday, you can grant her additional unpaid leave if she wishes to stay longer than her standard entitlement.
When Is The Deadline To Apply For The Levy Waiver After She Lands Back In Singapore?
You must apply for the levy waiver within one year of the start of the levy waiver period. However, it is best to do it the month she returns. How the system works is that you pay the levy upfront via GIRO, and MOM refunds the amount to your bank account after your waiver application is approved.
How Do I Discharge My Liability If She Lands In Singapore But Runs Away From The Airport Instead Of Returning To My House?
This is a critical “runaway” scenario. You must file a police report immediately and cancel her Work Permit within 1 week of her failure to return to work. Where she goes is a police matter, but filing these reports promptly is crucial to appealing the forfeiture of your $5,000 security bond.
Where Can I Verify If Her Oec Is Actually Valid Before I Drop Her Off At The Airport?
You or your helper can log in to the DMW (Department of Migrant Workers) online portal (formerly POEA) to check her status. It is highly recommended to do this 24 hours before the flight. If the system does not show a valid OEC or exemption, she will be stopped at the Philippine airport upon her return leg.