Most families underestimate the cost of hiring a helper because the agency fee is only one part of the total. You should budget for one-off hiring expenses, recurring government charges, salary, insurance and the helper’s day-to-day upkeep.
1. Agency fee
This pays the agency for sourcing, screening, matching, administration and placement support. Sapphire Maids’ agency fee starts from $388. Ask what is included when comparing agencies because the headline price alone does not show the full service.
2. Monthly migrant domestic worker levy
The levy is a government charge paid every month. MOM states that the normal rate is $300 for the first helper and $450 for each subsequent helper. A concessionary rate of $60 applies to eligible local households with caregiving needs, such as a Singapore citizen child below 16, a local elderly person aged at least 67, or a local person with disabilities living in the household.
Check the current rate and eligibility on the Ministry of Manpower levy explanation.
3. Security bond
MOM requires a $5,000 security bond for each non-Malaysian helper. It is a banker’s or insurer’s guarantee, so employers usually buy it through an insurance package rather than depositing $5,000 in cash. The helper cannot be asked to pay for it.
Read the official security bond requirements.
4. Medical and personal accident insurance
Before the helper arrives, the employer must buy medical insurance and personal accident insurance. MOM currently requires at least $60,000 per year of medical insurance coverage for inpatient care and day surgery. Personal accident insurance must also have a sum assured of at least $60,000 per year.
Review the current MOM insurance requirements before selecting a plan.
5. Medical examinations
A newly arrived helper must pass a pre-employment medical examination before her Work Permit can be issued. MOM says this examination must be completed by a Singapore-registered doctor within two weeks of arrival. During employment, she must also attend a medical screening every six months, and the employer pays the examination and related medical costs.
See MOM’s guidance on the pre-employment examination and six-monthly examination.
6. First-time employer and helper programmes
A first-time employer must complete the Employer Orientation Programme before applying for a Work Permit. A first-time helper must attend the one-day Settling-in Programme within seven days of arrival, excluding Sundays and public holidays, and before starting work.
The current requirements are listed on MOM’s employer requirements and Settling-in Programme pages.
7. The helper’s salary and upkeep
Salary is normally the largest recurring household cost. The amount depends on experience, skills, source-country requirements and the agreed employment terms. Employers must also provide suitable accommodation, food, medical care and other required upkeep.
Putting the costs together
One-off costs generally include the agency fee, insurance package, initial medical examination and any first-time programmes. Recurring costs include salary, levy, food, accommodation, healthcare and other household expenses. Build your budget around the monthly total, not only the day-one cost.
How to keep the cost manageable
- Check whether your household qualifies for the $60 concessionary levy.
- Compare agency quotes based on what is included.
- Choose the maid type according to your timeline and household, not salary alone.
- Keep a reserve for healthcare, replacement travel and unexpected household expenses.
Frequently asked questions
Is the $5,000 security bond normally paid in cash?
No. It is commonly provided as a banker’s or insurer’s guarantee, often within an insurance package.
Does the agency fee include the levy and insurance?
No. Government charges, insurance and the helper’s salary are separate from the agency service fee unless a written quotation explicitly states otherwise.
What figure should I confirm first?
Check your levy rate and concession eligibility. The difference between the normal and concessionary rates affects every month of employment.