Domestic Helper Work Permit, Levy, and Insurance Explained for Singapore

Every employer in Singapore must comply with work permit, levy, and insurance requirements when hiring a domestic helper. These rules protect both the employer and the helper, and they ensure that the helper has basic medical coverage. Understanding the process early helps you budget accurately and avoid delays in the hiring timeline.

Work permit essentials

An employer, sponsor, or authorised employment agent can submit the Work Permit application. MOM charges S$35 at application and S$35 at issuance. First-time employers must complete the EOP before applying. For an overseas hire, complete the arrival, medical, and first-time-MDW orientation steps stated in the IPA.

• Provide the helper, household, and income information MOM requests
• Apply directly or authorise a licensed employment agency
• Plan arrival, the medical examination within 14 days, and SIP for a first-time MDW
• Sign the required safety agreement before the helper starts work

Levy and concession planning

MOM currently lists S$300 a month for a first helper, S$450 for subsequent helpers, and S$60 for qualifying concessionary cases. Confirm eligibility on MOM’s levy-concession guidance and keep enough funds available for the payment due on the 17th of the following month.

Insurance and security bond

Before arrival, employers must buy medical insurance with at least S$60,000 annual inpatient and day-surgery cover and personal accident insurance with at least S$60,000 sum assured a year. A S$5,000 security bond is required for each non-Malaysian helper. Confirm policy limits, exclusions, effective dates, and renewals.

• Medical insurance for inpatient care and day surgery
• Personal accident insurance for accidental death or permanent disability
• S$5,000 security bond for a non-Malaysian helper
• Renewal schedule tracked on a calendar

Record keeping and renewals

Keep a simple folder with permit documents, insurance certificates, salary records, and levy records. Set reminders before Work Permit and insurance renewals. Use MOM’s FDW eService for changes that MOM requires you to notify; an agency can assist if you have authorised it.

• Store copies of the work permit and insurance policies
• Track levy payment dates and receipts
• Confirm renewal dates at least once each quarter
• Keep salary and agreed rest-day records

Working with your agency

A good agency can simplify compliance, but you should still understand each requirement. Ask the agency to explain what they submit and what you must maintain. Keep a shared checklist so both sides know which steps are complete.

• Request a clear timeline for permit approval
• Confirm who pays each insurance invoice
• Ask how changes in employment terms are handled
• Keep a direct contact for urgent questions

If an address, salary, or other declared detail changes, check MOM’s current notification requirements and update the relevant eService promptly. Do not rely on an agency unless it remains authorised to act for you.

Missing payments or outdated documents can create delays or penalties. Treat compliance as part of household planning, just like insurance or school schedules.

Regular reviews keep you prepared if regulations or levy tiers change. Ask your agency for updates during annual renewals.

Keep digital backups so you can access documents quickly when needed.

When you understand work permit, levy, and insurance requirements, you reduce risk for your household. The process is manageable when you track dates and keep documents organized. A good agency can guide you, but the responsibility ultimately sits with the employer, so clear planning is essential.