Maid Agency FAQ Singapore – Trusted Guide by Jans Maid
Which Maid Should You Hire? Fresh or Transfer
Watch our consultant explain how to choose between a fresh maid and a transfer maid for your household needs in Singapore. Get clear, professional advice before you decide.
For even more details, please read our full FAQ below where we've highlighted all the necessary information to help you make the best choice.
Welcome to the Maid Agency FAQ Singapore guide by Jans Maid. We provide trusted, affordable maid services for employers in Singapore.This FAQ answers common questions about hiring, managing, and working with helpers from Indonesia, Myanmar, and the Philippines. Whether you’re a first-time employer or need clear MOM-compliant advice, our guide will help you confidently navigate the entire hiring process.
Maid Agency FAQ Singapore – Legal & MOM-Related Responsibilities
I’m a first-time employer. What should I do?
You must be at least 21, not an undischarged bankrupt, and attend the online Employers’ Orientation Programme (EOP). MOM allows combined family income to meet eligibility criteria. If you have questions, see our full Maid Agency FAQ Singapore guide.
Do I need to attend the Employers’ Orientation Programme (EOP)?
Yes—all first-time FDW employers must attend the EOP online before submitting a work permit application. If you have questions, see our full Maid Agency FAQ Singapore guide.
Does my maid need her own room?
Yes, or at least a private partitioned space. She can only share with a female family member, with consent. If you have questions, see our full Maid Agency FAQ Singapore guide.
How should I pay my maid’s salary?
Pay monthly via bank transfer or with signed acknowledgment. Jans Maid provides a salary and off-day schedule for both parties to sign and keep.
What is the Settling-In Programme (SIP)?
A mandatory one-day training for all first-time FDWs in Singapore, covering safety, rights, and responsibilities.
Why did MOM call my maid for an interview?
A routine welfare check to ensure she understands her rights and is doing well. It’s not necessarily due to complaints.
Can I keep her passport or Work Permit?
No. MOM strictly prohibits employers from holding these documents without her explicit consent.
Can my maid clean windows or fans?
Yes — but only under supervision. Windows must have locked grilles and employer supervision. Fans should be cleaned safely under direct supervision.
Can my maid use her phone?
Yes. Reasonable phone use is allowed, typically 1 hour before bedtime after completing daily duties. It's important for her to stay in touch with loved ones, reducing homesickness and the urge to return prematurely.
Should I install a camera at home?
You may install CCTV cameras in common areas for safety. MOM requires employers to inform the helper in advance about any cameras. Cameras must not be installed in private areas such as the bathroom or her sleeping space.
Can I hire two maids?
Yes, but MOM approval is required. Valid reasons include large families, elderly care, or special needs. Jans Maid can assist with the paperwork.
Does my maid need a rest day?
Yes. MOM requires that all Foreign Domestic Workers receive at least 1 rest day per month. Since 1 January 2023, this mandatory rest day cannot be compensated with extra pay—it must be given. Additional rest days can be negotiated with compensation if both agree in writing.
How long should my maid rest per day?
MOM guidelines recommend at least 8 continuous hours of rest per day, including uninterrupted overnight sleep. Employers should discuss suitable rest breaks if their maid is caring for infants, toddlers, or elderly family members with special needs. Open communication helps ensure fair and sustainable arrangements.
What basic amenities must I provide for my maid?
You must provide your Foreign Domestic Worker with basic living essentials to ensure her comfort and well-being. This includes a mattress, pillow, blanket, and bathroom amenities. MOM guidelines require employers to ensure suitable living conditions that respect her dignity and basic needs.
Can my maid work in 2 homes?
No. She cannot work in multiple households. This is not allowed under MOM regulations. Each helper is only permitted to work for her officially registered employer at the approved address. Employers must comply to avoid penalties. Ask our consultant and we will guide you.
Maid Selection & Hiring Decisions – Maid Agency FAQ Singapore
Choosing the right maid in Singapore is an important decision. Whether you’re comparing a fresh maid vs transfer maid, hiring a Myanmar helper, or understanding MOM rules, it pays to make an informed choice.
Hiring the Right Helper
At Jans Maid, we help employers review employment history, assess skills and compatibility, and arrange consultations so you can choose confidently.
Contact us today for expert MOM-compliant advice.
Maid Agency FAQ Singapore
✅ Should I hire a fresh maid or a transfer maid?
Transfer maids may be released early due to changing employer needs (for example, employer relocating or an elderly family member passing away). Fresh maids are newly arrived from overseas and may require more time and guidance to adapt.
✅ How do I know which maid suits my family?
Depending on your criteria, our consultant will review your needs and advise you accordingly.
✅ What's the difference between a transfer maid and a fresh maid?
A transfer maid is already in Singapore and is released by her current employer for reasons like relocation or changing household needs:
- ✅ Faster deployment
- ✅ Has local experience
- ✅ Employer can check previous employment history
- ✅ Easier to arrange in-person interviews
A fresh maid is newly recruited from overseas and will arrive in Singapore for the first time:
- ✅ Newly trained in home country’s training centre
- ✅ Can be guided from day one to match your needs
- ✅ Often more affordable in initial fees
You can consult Jans Maid for advice on the best fit for your household. We also help check employment history and arrange speaking to the previous employer if they're comfortable.
✅ Why should I employ a Myanmar maid?
Communication improves over time with employer patience and tools like Google Translate. Employers appreciate their politeness, respect for elders, and careful approach to household duties.
✅ Why should I hire an Indonesian maid?
Indonesian helpers are known for their gentle and patient nature. Many have experience caring for children and the elderly. They are typically respectful, willing to learn, and adapt well to household routines with proper guidance and communication.
✅ Why should I hire a Filipino maid?
Filipino helpers often speak good English, making communication easier for many employers. They are known for being caring, reliable, and responsible—especially in looking after children and elderly family members. Their cultural emphasis on hospitality and respect also supports positive employer-helper relationships.
Handling Issues & Replacements – Maid Agency FAQ Singapore
Choosing the right Foreign Domestic Worker (FDW) in Singapore is an important decision for any household. Whether you’re deciding between a fresh maid or a transfer maid, considering a Myanmar helper, or understanding MOM approval for hiring two maids, it’s vital to know your options and choose wisely.
If you’re looking for professional, MOM-compliant guidance on hiring a maid in Singapore, talk to Jans Maid today.
Maid Agency FAQ Singapore
My maid keeps making mistakes. What should I do?
Many helpers come from developing countries where household routines and appliances are different. Teach and guide them patiently, explaining step by step. They need time to adapt. At Jans Maid, we encourage helpers to keep a task diary to write down household rules and reminders to learn faster and reduce repeated mistakes.
What if my maid continues making mistakes?
Contact Jans Maid. We’ll arrange counselling with her home country agent to address issues, resolve misunderstandings early, and build a better working relationship.
My maid is not compatible with my family. What can I do?
If your maid is not suitable for your family’s needs, don’t worry—it’s a common situation. Jans Maid offers 2 free replacements within 1 year (admin fees may apply). Outstanding loans will be pro-rated fairly. We encourage employers to speak with our consultants early so we can advise on counselling or arranging a replacement. Our goal is to help you choose the best fit for your family’s lifestyle and care needs.
Do maids get training before coming to Singapore?
Yes. They undergo structured training in their home countries. Employers should provide clear guidance on routines, expectations, and appliance use to help them adapt to modern living in Singapore.
My maid ran away. What should I do?
Report immediately to the police, MOM, and her embassy. Notify Jans Maid so we can assist you with next steps and arrange for proper documentation and follow-up.
My maid stole something. What should I do?
File a police report immediately. Notify MOM and Jans Maid so we can assist you in handling the matter professionally. Our replacement policy may apply if within terms.
My maid borrowed from a loan shark. What should I do?
If you discover your maid has borrowed from an illegal moneylender, act quickly and responsibly. First, report the matter immediately to the police and MOM to protect your household and prevent harassment. Then, inform Jans Maid. We will advise on next steps, coordinate with the maid’s home country agent if needed, and help you understand your options for counselling or replacement. At Jans Maid, we prioritize clear communication and employer safety, and we help employers screen new helpers carefully to reduce such risks in future hires.
My maid damaged something—can I deduct her salary?
Yes, but only with her written consent. MOM guidelines limit deductions to 25% of monthly salary and require mutual agreement.
Can my maid post pictures of my family on social media?
No, unless you explicitly approve. Jans Maid enforces a strict no-social-media policy to protect employer privacy. Helpers must not share images or personal details online without permission.
Can my maid use my home address for online deliveries?
No—not unless you clearly approve. Helpers should not use your address for online shopping deliveries without agreement. Your home address is confidential and must be respected at all times. Unauthorized deliveries can cause misunderstandings, lost packages, or privacy breaches. We advise employers to set clear house rules about using the address at the start of employment. At Jans Maid, we emphasize good communication to avoid issues and keep expectations clear.
Cost, Termination, Refunds & Policy – Maid Agency FAQ Singapore
Managing the cost of hiring a maid in Singapore is important for every employer. From agency fees and monthly salary to levy, insurance, and repatriation costs, it’s essential to plan ahead.
Maid Agency FAQ Singapore
How much does it cost to hire a maid in Singapore?
Costs include the agency fee, MOM processing fee, insurance, medical check-up, and travel expenses. Total costs vary but typically range from $2,000 to $4,000 upfront (excluding monthly salary and levy).
Can I get back my agency fee refund?
Most agencies have clear refund or replacement policies. Check your contract carefully. At Jans Maid, we offer 2 free replacements within a year (admin fees may apply), but cash refunds are typically not given once the service is provided.
What should I expect if I want to stop employing my maid?
You must give proper notice (as per the contract), cancel her work permit with MOM, and arrange for her repatriation. Employers are responsible for buying her flight ticket home and ensuring a safe return.
What does repatriating a maid involve?
Repatriating a maid involves cancelling her work permit, purchasing her flight ticket home, and ensuring she has her passport and belongings. Employers must also inform the agency if there is any outstanding loan. If a maid is repatriated without informing the agency, the employer will have to bear any remaining loan amount. It's important to clarify and settle all obligations before arranging her return.
Can my maid break contract early?
Yes. Either party can terminate the contract with notice (or payment in lieu). Discuss with your agency to understand notice periods, fees, and replacement options.
My maid finished her contract and would like to continue working. What should I do?
If both employer and helper agree to renew, inform your agency and MOM. Your agency will handle paperwork, new insurance, and contract submission for a smooth extension.
Insurance & Safeguards – Maid Agency FAQ Singapore
Insurance & Safeguards
Providing proper insurance for your Foreign Domestic Worker (FDW) in Singapore is not just a legal requirement—it's an essential safeguard for employers and helpers alike.
MOM requires medical insurance and personal accident insurance to protect your maid’s health and well-being during her employment.
- Hospitalisation and surgical expenses (minimum $60,000/year)
- Personal Accident coverage (minimum $60,000/year)
- Outpatient medical treatment (optional or included in Enhanced plans)
- Wage compensation for extended medical leave (often in Enhanced plans)
By choosing the right coverage, you’re protecting your family, your helper, and yourself from unforeseen costs and liabilities.
Get in Touch
1001 Lower Delta Rd, #01-02, Singapore 099307
Mon–Fri: 11am–8pm, Sat: 11am–4pm