How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Maid in Singapore? (2025 Guide)

Hiring a domestic helper in Singapore involves more than the monthly salary. Between agency fees, the foreign domestic worker (FDW) levy, insurance, and medical checks, first-time employers are often surprised by the upfront total. This 2025 guide breaks down every cost so you can budget with confidence.

Upfront (one-time) costs

• Agency placement fee: typically S$1,000–S$3,000 depending on the agency, helper experience, and whether the helper is new, transfer, or ex-Singapore.
• Security bond: a S$5,000 banker’s/insurer’s guarantee required by MOM for non-Malaysian helpers (usually covered by buying maid insurance, not paid in cash).
• Settling-in programme (SIP) for first-time helpers: around S$75.
• Medical examination on arrival and 6-monthly: roughly S$50–S$100 each.
• Work permit application & issuance: S$35 + S$35.

Monthly recurring costs

• Helper salary: market rates in 2025 commonly range from about S$600 to S$750+ depending on nationality and experience.
• Monthly levy: S$300 at the standard rate, or S$60 under the concessionary rate if your household qualifies (young child, elderly, or person with disabilities).
• Maid insurance: roughly S$250–S$600 per year (covers the security bond, medical, and personal accident).
• Food, rest-day compensation if applicable, and other living costs.

So what’s the realistic total?

Expect roughly S$2,000–S$4,000 upfront in the first month (agency fee + insurance + medical + permit + first salary), then about S$900–S$1,100 per month thereafter at the standard levy. Choosing a transfer or ex-Singapore helper can reduce upfront costs and shorten deployment time.

How to keep costs down

• Compare multiple agencies and helpers before committing — browsing biodata is free on Biodata.sg.
• Check if you qualify for the concessionary levy (saves S$240/month).
• Consider transfer or ex-Singapore helpers to lower agency fees and deployment time.
• Read the agency contract carefully for refund and replacement terms.

Browse curated maid biodata from MOM-licensed agencies on Biodata.sg to compare salary expectations and availability before you decide.