Choosing a domestic helper agency in Singapore requires careful financial planning. One of the most common questions employers ask is: “How much does it really cost to hire a maid in Singapore?”
Hiring a foreign domestic worker (FDW) involves more than paying a monthly salary. Employers must also budget for government levies, insurance, agency services, and ongoing household expenses. Without a clear breakdown, families often underestimate the true commitment.
Hire A Maid is an affordable maid agency in Singapore that focuses on transparent pricing, so employers understand exactly what they are paying for from the start. This guide explains the real cost of hiring a maid in Singapore in 2025–2026, based on current market conditions and Ministry of Manpower (MOM) requirements.
Understanding The Real Cost Of Hiring A Maid In Singapore
The cost of hiring a maid in Singapore can be grouped into three main categories:
- Monthly recurring costs (salary, levy, living expenses)
- One-time or occasional costs (agency fees, work permit, training programmes)
- Contingency costs (medical care, early termination, repatriation)
Understanding these categories helps employers budget accurately and avoid unexpected expenses later.
Typical Monthly Salary For Domestic Helpers In Singapore
MOM does not set a minimum salary for domestic helpers in Singapore. Salaries are determined by market factors such as experience, job scope, and whether the helper is new or already working in Singapore.
Salary For Fresh / First-Time Helpers
For first-time helpers from Myanmar or Indonesia, most employers in 2025–2026 typically budget:
- S$500 – S$650 per month
Salary For Experienced Or Transfer Helpers
Domestic helpers with prior overseas experience or those already working in Singapore generally command:
- S$650 – S$1,000+ per month
Factors That Affect Salary
- Infant or newborn care responsibilities
- Eldercare or special-needs care
- Cooking and household management skills
- Language proficiency
- Verified overseas employment history
Maid Salary By Nationality In Singapore
While individual profiles vary, the following salary ranges reflect common market expectations in 2025–2026:
- Myanmar helpers: S$500 – S$800
- Indonesian helpers: S$550 – S$850
- Filipino helpers: S$600 – S$900
These are indicative figures rather than fixed rules.
Migrant Domestic Worker (MDW) Levy In Singapore
Employers are required to pay a monthly levy to MOM for each domestic helper employed.
Normal Levy
- S$300 per month for the first helper
- S$450 per month for each additional helper
Concessionary Levy
- S$60 per month for eligible households
Eligibility applies to households with young children, elderly family members, or persons with disabilities, subject to MOM guidelines.
Mandatory One-Time Government Costs For Hiring A Domestic Helper
Regardless of which maid agency is used, employers must budget for several mandatory government-related fees, particularly in the first year.
Work Permit Application And Issuance
- Application fee: S$35
- Issuance fee: S$35
Settling-In Programme (SIP)
- Required for first-time domestic helpers
- Cost: S$76.40
Employer Orientation Programme (EOP)
- Required for some first-time employers
- Cost: ~S$35 – S$60
Insurance And Security Bond Requirements For Domestic Helpers
Employers must provide:
- Medical insurance with a minimum annual coverage of S$60,000
- Personal accident insurance with a minimum coverage of S$60,000
- A S$5,000 security bond, usually covered through an insurance guarantee (except for Malaysian helpers)
Typical insurance packages cost approximately S$300 – S$800, depending on coverage and duration.
Maid Agency And Placement Fees In Singapore
Maid Agency Fees
Agency fees vary depending on:
- Helper nationality and experience
- Overseas recruitment and training costs
- Scope of services provided (matching, interviews, documentation, after-placement support)
Typical maid agency fees range from:
- S$1,000 – S$3,000
Employers should always clarify what services are included, replacement policies, and fee transparency before committing.
Placement Fee (Maid’s Loan)
Some helpers incur a placement fee to cover recruitment and administrative costs. Where applicable:
- Typical range: S$2,000 – S$4,000
- Salary deductions must comply with MOM regulations and generally should not exceed 25% of one month’s salary per pay period
Ongoing Monthly Living Expenses For A Maid
Beyond salary and levy, employers should budget for recurring household expenses.
Typical monthly living expenses include:
- Food and daily necessities: S$150 – S$250
- Toiletries and personal items: S$20 – S$50
- Mobile phone plan: S$10 – S$30
- Transport (if required): S$30 – S$50
Actual costs vary depending on household size and job scope.
Sample Monthly Cost Estimate For Hiring A Domestic Helper In Singapore (Illustrative)
A typical monthly budget for a household hiring a maid in Singapore may include:
- Salary: S$600 – S$800
- Levy: S$60 – S$300
- Living expenses: S$200 – S$380
This places the estimated monthly cost at approximately S$860 – S$1,480, depending on levy eligibility and helper experience.
Medical Check-Ups And Healthcare For Domestic Helpers
Domestic helpers must undergo regular medical examinations:
- Initial medical screening: S$80 – S$120
- Mandatory 6-monthly medical examinations (6ME): S$70 – S$150 each
- Dental or outpatient treatment: varies, often S$200 – S$500 annually
Early Termination Costs When Hiring A Domestic Helper
If employment ends before contract completion, employers may need to budget for:
- Repatriation airfare: S$300 – S$800
- Transfer or administrative fees: S$300 – S$600
- Notice period salary, typically one month
Costs depend on contract terms and circumstances.
Government Support And Cost-Saving Options In Singapore
Eligible households may reduce costs through:
- Concessionary levy of S$60 per month
- Home Caregiving Grant (HCG)
- Caregivers Training Grant (CTG)
- Approved SkillsFuture courses
Practical Ways To Manage Maid Hiring Costs
- Proper helper matching to reduce early termination
- Applying for levy concessions where eligible
- Working with agencies that provide transparent pricing and after-placement support
Conclusion
Hiring a maid in Singapore is a significant household commitment that goes beyond monthly salary. Employers must plan for levies, insurance, agency services, and ongoing living expenses to avoid financial strain.
Working with a transparent and ethical maid agency ensures cost clarity, compliance, and long-term employment stability. With realistic budgeting and proper planning, families can build a fair and sustainable working relationship that benefits both the household and the helper.
Ready To Experience The Peace Of Mind With A Well-trained Myanmar Maid Or Indonesian Maid?
Contact us today for a personalized consultation. Let us guide you through the selection process, ensuring that you find the perfect match for your home
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is there a minimum salary for domestic helpers in Singapore?
No. MOM does not set a minimum salary. Pay depends on experience, skills, and job scope.
2. What mandatory government costs must employers pay in Singapore?
Employers must pay work permit fees, required programmes such as SIP or EOP, compulsory insurance, and the security bond.
3. How much is the monthly maid levy in Singapore?
The levy is S$300 per month for the first helper, S$450 for subsequent helpers, or S$60 for eligible households under the concessionary scheme.
4. What is a maid’s loan and are salary deductions allowed?
A maid’s loan refers to placement-related costs paid upfront on the helper’s behalf. Where applicable, deductions must comply with MOM rules and generally should not exceed 25% of one month’s salary.
5. Why is transparent pricing important when hiring a maid agency?
Transparent pricing allows employers to understand all costs upfront, budget accurately, and avoid unexpected charges later.
