How to Hire a Maid in Singapore: A Step-by-Step Guide for First-Time Employers

Bringing a domestic helper into your home is a big decision, and the process involves several official steps set by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). For first-time employers, the paperwork and terminology can be confusing. The good news is that a licensed agency handles most of the administration for you. Here is what the journey looks like from start to finish so you know what to expect at each stage.

Step 1: Decide the type of helper you need

Start by defining the role. Are you mainly looking for general housekeeping, childcare, newborn care, or eldercare? A helper suited to caring for an active toddler is not always the same person who is patient and attentive with an elderly parent. Think about the size of your home, whether cooking or specific dietary needs matter, and any languages you would prefer your helper to speak. You should also decide whether you want a fresh helper coming to Singapore for the first time or a transfer helper who is already here and can start sooner. Being clear on this upfront makes every later step easier and gives your agency a much sharper brief to work from.

Step 2: Choose a MOM-licensed agency

A good agency does more than hand you a list of biodata. It helps match you with suitable candidates, handles the MOM paperwork, arranges medical checks and insurance, and supports you if issues arise. Always confirm the agency is licensed by MOM. AJS Global Pte Ltd, for example, holds MOM Licence No. 17C8901. Ask what is included in the fee and what happens if the placement does not work out.

Step 3: Interview your shortlisted candidates

Once your agency shortlists candidates based on your requirements, interview them by video call or in person. This is your chance to assess communication, experience, and personality fit, not just skills on paper. Ask about their previous roles, how they handle specific situations relevant to your household, and their expectations around rest days and daily routines. A good match is often as much about temperament as ability.

Step 4: Complete the MOM paperwork

After you select a helper, the formal process begins. Your agency applies for the work permit through MOM on your behalf. As the employer, you will need to meet MOM's eligibility criteria and, for first-time employers, complete the Employers' Orientation Programme. This is also when you set up the levy payment. The maid levy is a monthly government charge of $300 at the standard rate, or $60 at the concessionary rate if you have a young child, an elderly family member, or a person with a disability in the household. It is usually paid by GIRO.

Step 5: Arrange insurance and required coverage

MOM requires every employer to buy medical and personal accident insurance for their helper, along with a security bond for non-Malaysian helpers. Your agency typically arranges this as part of the placement. At AJS Global, the placement package includes 26-month Tokio Marine insurance, so you are covered from the start without having to source a policy yourself.

Step 6: The Settling-In Programme and arrival

First-time helpers must attend the Settling-In Programme (SIP), a one-day orientation covering safety, employment rights, and adjusting to life in Singapore. Your agency books this and arranges the airport transfer when your helper arrives. Once she is home, take the first week or two to introduce your routines, house rules, and expectations gradually, and give her time to learn where things are and how your household runs. A calm, structured handover sets the tone for a long and successful placement, and small courtesies in these early days go a long way.

The 12-month replacement guarantee

Even with careful matching, not every placement works out, and that is worth planning for. A strong agency backs its placements with a replacement guarantee. AJS Global offers unlimited replacement within 12 months at no additional agency fee, so if things do not work out you are not left stranded. Ask any agency you consider exactly how their guarantee works before you commit.

A quick recap

Hiring a maid in Singapore comes down to knowing what you need, choosing a licensed agency, interviewing well, and letting the agency handle the MOM paperwork, levy setup, insurance, SIP, and arrival. For a printable version you can work through step by step, see our hiring checklist, which covers everything to prepare before, during, and after you hire.