Hiring foreign domestic workers in Singapore: Difference between revisions

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As of the latest population statistics in June 2018, there are 250,100 foreign domestic workers in Singapore, with the majority of these workers coming from Indonesia, Philippines and Myanmar.<ref>“Foreign workforce numbers”. ''Ministry of Manpower.'' November 12, 2018. Accessed on 29 January 2019. Retrieved from: https://www.mom.gov.sg/documents-and-publications/foreign-workforce-numbers</ref> Foreign domestic workers take up daily chores such as cleaning, cooking and looking after the children or the elderly of the household.<ref>Tay, Wei Yu. “Foreign domestic workers’ living conditions survey.” ''Transient Workers Count Too''. June 2016. Accessed on 29 January 2019. Retrieved from: http://twc2.org.sg/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/FDW-Report_Final.pdf</ref>
[[File:MOM logo.png|thumb|''The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) is the main body involved in this process.'']]
''This is an entry about foreign workers who serve as domestic help in Singapore.''
 
As of the latest population statistics in June 2018, there are 250,100 foreign domestic workers in Singapore. Most of these workers come from Indonesia, Philippines and Myanmar.<ref>“Foreign workforce numbers”. ''Ministry of Manpower.'' November 12, 2018. Accessed on 29 January 2019. Retrieved from: https://www.mom.gov.sg/documents-and-publications/foreign-workforce-numbers</ref>
 
==Requirements==
Before hiring a foreign domestic worker, there are a few prerequisites for the parties involved.


==Eligibility==
===Foreign Domestic Workers===
===Foreign Domestic Workers===
A foreign domestic worker needs to meet the age, nationality and education requirements in order to get a work permit. The worker needs to be a female between the age of 23 to 50 years old with at least 8 years of formal education. She has to come from an approved country or region such as Bangladesh, Cambodia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Macau, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan or Thailand.<ref>“Foreign domestic worker eligibility”. ''Ministry of Manpower''. November 15, 2018. Accessed on 29 January 2019. Retrieved from: https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/work-permit-for-foreign-domestic-worker/eligibility-and-requirements/fdw-eligibility</ref> Additionally, the foreign domestic worker must not be related to the employer.
The foreign domestic worker must fulfill the following requirements to be hired.
{| class="wikitable"
!Age
!Nationality
!Education
|-
|
*> 22 years old
*< 50 years old
|These countries have been approved by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM):<ref>“[https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/work-permit-for-foreign-domestic-worker/eligibility-and-requirements/fdw-eligibility Foreign domestic worker eligibility]”. ''Ministry of Manpower''. November 15, 2018. Accessed on 29 January 2019.</ref>
 
*Bangladesh
*Cambodia
*Hong Kong
*India
*Indonesia
*Macau
*Malaysia
*Myanmar
*Philippines
*South Korea
*Sri Lanka
*Taiwan
*Thailand
 
Potential employers must not hire a helper outside of the above countries.
|8 years of formal education
|}
Additionally, the worker must not be related to the employer.


===Employer===
===Employer===
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) will consider the applicant’s financial ability to hire, house and care for the domestic worker in an acceptable living environment. To hire a foreign domestic worker, the employer must either be a Singapore citizen or a holder of a long term visit pass. The employer must also be of 21 years old and above with a steady income and of sound mind.<ref>“Summary of everything you need to know before hiring a domestic worker”. ''HelperChoice.'' Accessed on 29 January 2019. Retrieved from: https://www.helperchoice.com/singapore/domestic-helper</ref> Individuals who are declared bankrupt at the time of application are not eligible to hire foreign domestic help. For applicants looking to hire '''more than one''' domestic helper, they must have 2 or more young children (below the age of 18) or a parent or parent-in-law over 60 years old living in the same household. On top of this, the applicant will be accessed on his financial ability to provide for the domestic helpers and to house them in acceptable living conditions.
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) will consider the applicant’s financial ability to hire, house and care for the domestic worker in an acceptable living environment.<ref>“Summary of everything you need to know before hiring a domestic worker”. ''HelperChoice.'' Accessed on 29 January 2019. Retrieved from: https://www.helperchoice.com/singapore/domestic-helper</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
!Age
!Citizenship
!Annual Household income
|-
|< 20 years old
|
*Singapore Citizen
*Long Term Visit Pass
|Maid agencies in Singapore estimate the following:


===Employers’ Orientation Programme (EOP)===
*<S$30,000
All first-time applicants are required to attend the Employers' Orientation Programme. The EOP is a once-off 3-hour course that helps applicants understand their responsibilities as an employer of a foreign domestic worker. The EOP must be completed at least 2 working days before submitting the Work Permit application.<ref>“Employers’ Orientation Programme (EOP)”. ''Ministry of Manpower.'' July 17, 2018. Accessed on 29 January 2019. Retrieved from: https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/work-permit-for-foreign-domestic-worker/eligibility-and-requirements/employers-orientation-programme-eop</ref> Applicants can opt to take the course in person or online. There are two training providers in Singapore certified to carry out the programme. Upon completion of the programme, applicants will receive a certificate acknowledged by MOM.<ref>"FDW-EOP Foreign Domestic Worker Employers' Orientation Programme (Online)". Accessed on 28 February 2019. ''Singapore Polytechnic.'' Retrieved from: https://www.sp.edu.sg/pace/courses/course-type/online/fdw-eop-foreign-domestic-worker-employers'-orientation-programme-(online)</ref>
 
According to the MOM, they cannot quote an official amount.<ref>"[https://www.mom.gov.sg/faq/work-permit-for-fdw/what-is-the-minimum-income-needed-to-employ-an-fdw What is the minimum income needed to employ an FDW?]". ''Ministry of Manpower''. Accessed on 28 November 2019.</ref> This criteria is judged based on external factors such as the type of application and the number of people in the household. However, the following is confirmed:
 
*Employers must not be bankrupt at the time of application.
|}
For applicants looking to hire '''more than one''' domestic helper, they must have 2 or more young children (below 18 years old) or a parent or parent-in-law over 60 years old living in the same household.
 
==Employers’ Orientation Programme (EOP)==
All first-time applicants need to attend the Employers' Orientation Programme. The EOP is a compulsory 3-hour course that helps applicants understand their responsibilities as an employer. For example:
 
* Provide the domestic help with 3 meals a day, basic amenities and a room (with adequate shelter and privacy)
* All help is entitled to a weekly rest day. If they agree to work on their rest day, they must be compensated with 1 day’s worth of salary.<ref>“[https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/work-permit-for-foreign-domestic-worker/employers-guide/rest-days-and-well-being Rest days and well-being for foreign domestic workers]”. ''Ministry of Manpower.'' December 6, 2018. Accessed on 30 January 2019.</ref>
 
 
The EOP must be completed at least '''2 working days''' before submitting the Work Permit application.<ref>“[https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/work-permit-for-foreign-domestic-worker/eligibility-and-requirements/employers-orientation-programme-eop Employers’ Orientation Programme (EOP)]”. ''Ministry of Manpower.'' July 17, 2018. Accessed on 29 January 2019.</ref> Applicants can take the course in person or online. Upon completion, applicants will receive a certificate acknowledged by MOM.<ref>"[https://www.sp.edu.sg/pace/courses/course-type/online/fdw-eop-foreign-domestic-worker-employers'-orientation-programme-(online) FDW-EOP Foreign Domestic Worker Employers' Orientation Programme (Online)]". ''Singapore Polytechnic.'' Accessed on 28 February 2019.</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
|'''Venue'''
!Venue
|'''Nearest MRT Station'''
!Fee (SGD)
|'''Language'''
!Registration
|'''Fee (SGD)'''
!Notes
|'''Opening Hours'''
|'''How to Register'''
|-
|-
|'''Professional & Adult Continuing Education (PACE) Academy'''
|'''Professional & Adult Continuing Education (PACE) Academy'''
Line 24: Line 79:


Singapore 139651  
Singapore 139651  
|Dover (EW22)
|English
|$34.50
|$34.50
|Every Friday, 6pm to 9pm
|[https://www.sp.edu.sg/pace/courses/course-type/online/fdw-eop-foreign-domestic-worker-employers'-orientation-programme-(online) Online registration]
|Online ([https://www.sp.edu.sg/pace/courses/course-type/online/fdw-eop-foreign-domestic-worker-employers'-orientation-programme-(online) Registration portal])
|Only conducted in English.
|-
|-
|'''Nation Employment Pte Ltd'''
|'''Nation Employment Pte Ltd'''
Line 34: Line 87:


Address: 135 Jurong Gateway Road, #05-317, Singapore 600135
Address: 135 Jurong Gateway Road, #05-317, Singapore 600135
|Jurong East (EW24/NS1)
|English or Mandarin (alternate weekly)
|$30
|$30
|Every Wednesday, 6pm to 9pm
|Walk-in
|Walk-in
|Conducted in English and Mandarin on alternate weeks.
|-
|-
|Online
|Online
| -
|English
|$46
|$46
|<nowiki>-</nowiki>
|[https://www.sp.edu.sg/pace/courses/course-type/online/fdw-eop-foreign-domestic-worker-employers'-orientation-programme-(online) Online registration]
|Online ([https://www.sp.edu.sg/pace/courses/course-type/online/fdw-eop-foreign-domestic-worker-employers'-orientation-programme-(online) Registration portal])
|Only conducted in English.
|}
|}


==Pre-arrival administrative procedures==
==Work permit==
The Work Permit in Singapore lasts for 2 years. Employers can choose to apply manually or through an online portal.


===Work permit application===
=== Summary ===
For '''online applications''' ([https://www.mom.gov.sg/eservices/services/work-permit-transactions-for-domestic-helpers-and-confinement-nannies application portal]), employers are required to provide their own personal particulars including their income details. Applicants are also required to provide the personal particulars of their family members. The helper's passport details are also required. A written consent from the domestic helper is also needed in order to protect the interest of both the employer and employee. The application fee for the work permit is SGD$30 and takes 1 week to process. From 1 April 2019 onwards, the application fee will be increased to SGD$35.<ref>“Apply for a Work Permit for foreign domestic worker.” ''Ministry of Manpower.'' January 14, 2019. Accessed on 29 January 2019. Retrieved from: https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/work-permit-for-foreign-domestic-worker/apply-for-work-permit</ref>  If the application is approved, the In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter (or the letter of notification for first-time helpers) will have to be printed.
The whole process of getting a work permit costs SGD$70. The breakdown of costs can be seen below.<ref>“[https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/work-permit-for-foreign-domestic-worker/apply-for-work-permit Apply for a Work Permit for foreign domestic worker].” ''Ministry of Manpower.'' January 14, 2019. Accessed on 29 January 2019.</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
!
!Fee(s) (SGD)
!Register
!Processing time
!Notes
|-
|'''Application'''
|$35
|[https://www.mom.gov.sg/~/media/mom/documents/services-forms/passes/wp_appln_form_for_fdw.pdf Application form] (manual registration)
[https://www.mom.gov.sg/eservices/services/work-permit-transactions-for-domestic-helpers-and-confinement-nannies Online registration]
|Processing time:


* 1 week (online registration)
* 3 weeks (manual registration)
|Successful applicants will receive an '''In-Principle Approval (IPA)''' letter.


For '''manual applications,''' applicants can submit the Work Permit application form ([https://www.mom.gov.sg/~/media/mom/documents/services-forms/passes/wp_appln_form_for_fdw.pdf MOM application form]) over the counter at any SingPost branch. The application form has to be supplemented with additional documents namely - copies of both the employers and employees passports/ travel documents, birth certificates/ identity cards, and supporting documents to verify the employer's income.<ref>Ministry of Manpower. "Application for a foreign domestic helper work permit". Updated on October 3, 2018. Accessed on 28 February 2019. Retrieved from: https://www.mom.gov.sg/~/media/mom/documents/services-forms/passes/wp_appln_form_for_fdw.pdf</ref> Application fees will have to be paid on the spot. Manual applications take 3 weeks to process. The IPA letter (or the letter of notification for first-time helpers) will be mailed to the applicant. A copy of the IPA or letter of notification needs to be mailed to the foreign domestic helper as it is needed by the immigration customs.
* They will have to print the IPA and mail it to the helper as they will need it at immigration customs.
|-
|'''Issuance'''
|$35
|[https://www.mom.gov.sg/eservices/services/work-permit-transactions-for-domestic-helpers-and-confinement-nannies Online issuance]
|Delivery time:


===Special schemes===
* 4 working days (after verification of documents)
|The helper will be issued a Temporary Work Permit while waiting for the official Work Permit card.
The helper may have to register her fingerprints and photo at MOM.
|}
 
=== Documents needed ===
For online registration, employers will need to retrieve written consent from the helper. These are the additional documents needed for '''manual applications''':<ref>Ministry of Manpower. "[https://www.mom.gov.sg/~/media/mom/documents/services-forms/passes/wp_appln_form_for_fdw.pdf Application for a foreign domestic helper work permit]". Updated on October 3, 2018. Accessed on 28 February 2019.</ref>
 
* Employers' passports (copies)
* Employee's passport OR travel document (copy)
* Birth certificates / identity cards (copies)
* Documents verifying the employer's income
 
==Types of application==
 
=== Joint Income Scheme ===
Employers can also apply for the work permit under the '''Joint Income Scheme''' by combining income with another working family member (except for spouse) in the same household. Besides fulfilling all the basic requirements, applicants under this scheme must be the one receiving a higher salary compared to the other family member under the same application.
Employers can also apply for the work permit under the '''Joint Income Scheme''' by combining income with another working family member (except for spouse) in the same household. Besides fulfilling all the basic requirements, applicants under this scheme must be the one receiving a higher salary compared to the other family member under the same application.


 
=== Sponsorship Scheme ===
The '''Sponsorship Scheme''' allows senior citizens to apply for a Work Permit based on the income of up to 2 sponsors. To qualify for this scheme, applicant must be a Singapore Citizen or PR who is 60 years old and above. He or she must not be earning any income or staying with any working adults. The sponsors may be the applicant’s children or children’s spouse, grandchildren or grandchildren’s spouse or the applicant’s siblings.  
The '''Sponsorship Scheme''' allows senior citizens to apply for a Work Permit based on the income of up to 2 sponsors. To qualify for this scheme, applicant must be a Singapore Citizen or PR who is 60 years old and above. He or she must not be earning any income or staying with any working adults. The sponsors may be the applicant’s children or children’s spouse, grandchildren or grandchildren’s spouse or the applicant’s siblings.




Employers can select these schemes online when applying for the Work Permit.
Employers can select these schemes online when applying for the Work Permit.


===Security Bond===
==Security bond==
The Security Bond is a binding pledge between the employer and the Singapore government. It is meant to protect the welfare of the foreign domestic help. Should the employer break the law or go against the conditions governing the employment of a foreign domestic worker, they will be fined up to SGD$5,000 by the Singapore government. Every employer has to purchase the bond, unless the foreign domestic worker hired is a Malaysian.<ref>“Security bond requirements for foreign domestic worker”. ''Ministry of Manpower.'' June 21, 2018. Accessed on 29 January 2019. Retrieved from: https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/work-permit-for-foreign-domestic-worker/eligibility-and-requirements/security-bond</ref> Bonds usually take the form of an insurance or banker’s guarantee.<ref>Lin, Peter. “Cost of Hiring a Domestic Helper in Singapore”. ''Moneysmart.'' April 24, 2018. Accessed on 29 January 2019. Retrieved from: https://blog.moneysmart.sg/family/cost-hiring-domestic-helper-singapore/</ref> The details of the security bond has to be sent to MOM before the domestic help arrives or she will be refused entry into Singapore.
The Security Bond is a binding pledge between the employer and the Singapore government. It is meant to protect the welfare of the foreign domestic help. Should the employer break the law or go against the conditions governing the employment of a foreign domestic worker, they will be fined up to SGD$5,000 by the Singapore government. Every employer has to purchase the bond, unless the foreign domestic worker hired is a Malaysian.<ref>“Security bond requirements for foreign domestic worker”. ''Ministry of Manpower.'' June 21, 2018. Accessed on 29 January 2019. Retrieved from: https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/work-permit-for-foreign-domestic-worker/eligibility-and-requirements/security-bond</ref> Bonds usually take the form of an insurance or banker’s guarantee.<ref>Lin, Peter. “Cost of Hiring a Domestic Helper in Singapore”. ''Moneysmart.'' April 24, 2018. Accessed on 29 January 2019. Retrieved from: https://blog.moneysmart.sg/family/cost-hiring-domestic-helper-singapore/</ref> The details of the security bond has to be sent to MOM before the domestic help arrives or she will be refused entry into Singapore.


Line 71: Line 156:
The bond will be forfeited if the employer or foreign domestic worker violated any of the conditions of the Work Permit or security bond, if the helper’s salary was not paid on time or the employer failed to send her back when her Work Permit is no longer valid. The bond will be discharged only when the Work Permit has been cancelled by the employer, the helper has returned home and the employer did not breach any of the conditions of the security bond.  
The bond will be forfeited if the employer or foreign domestic worker violated any of the conditions of the Work Permit or security bond, if the helper’s salary was not paid on time or the employer failed to send her back when her Work Permit is no longer valid. The bond will be discharged only when the Work Permit has been cancelled by the employer, the helper has returned home and the employer did not breach any of the conditions of the security bond.  


===Insurance===
==Healthcare==
 
=== Insurance ===
Employers need to purchase '''medical insurance''' with a coverage of at least SGD$15,000 per year for inpatient care and day surgery during the helper’s stay in Singapore. If the Work Permit is applied or renewed from 1 October 2017 onwards, a '''Personal accident insurance''' with a coverage of at least SGD$60,000 per year has to be bought for the helper. This insurance must cover sudden, unforeseen and unexpected incidents resulting in permanent disability or death. All compensations must be made payable to the helper or her beneficiaries.
Employers need to purchase '''medical insurance''' with a coverage of at least SGD$15,000 per year for inpatient care and day surgery during the helper’s stay in Singapore. If the Work Permit is applied or renewed from 1 October 2017 onwards, a '''Personal accident insurance''' with a coverage of at least SGD$60,000 per year has to be bought for the helper. This insurance must cover sudden, unforeseen and unexpected incidents resulting in permanent disability or death. All compensations must be made payable to the helper or her beneficiaries.


===Settling-In Programme (SIP)===
===Medical examinations===
Employers have to send a first-time foreign domestic worker for the Settling-In Programme (SIP) within 3 days of her arrival in Singapore. This is a 1-day orientation programme to educate the workers on safety precautions and living in Singapore. The course will be conducted in the helper’s native language and the SGD$75 course fee will be borne by the employer. The employer should register the foreign domestic help for the SIP before her arrival. Registration for the course at various locations can be made on the MOM website ([https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/work-permit-for-foreign-domestic-worker/eligibility-and-requirements/settling-in-programme-sip MOM registration portal]).
The foreign domestic worker has to be sent for a medical examination within 2 weeks of her arrival in Singapore. The doctor must be registered in Singapore. The medical examination form ([https://www.mom.gov.sg/~/media/mom/documents/services-forms/passes/medical_form.pdf?la=en MOM medical form]) should brought along on the day of doctor's appointment. If the individual is infected with tuberculosis, HIV, syphilis or malaria, she will be sent home as she is unfit for work.<ref>“Pre-employment medical examination for FDW”. ''Ministry of Manpower''. October 27, 2016. Accessed on 29 January 2019. Retrieved from: https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/work-permit-for-foreign-domestic-worker/eligibility-and-requirements/medical-examination</ref> Employers must submit the completed medical examination form when requesting for the issuance of the Work Permit.




The foreign domestic worker should complete her SIP course within the first 3 working days of her arrival.
Once hired, a foreign domestic worker must be sent for the '''Six-monthly medical examination (6ME)''' and the cost will be borne by the employer. It includes a pregnancy and syphilis test which occurs every 6 months, and a HIV and tuberculosis test every 2 years.<ref>“Six-monthly medical examination (6ME) for foreign domestic worker (FDW)”. ''Ministry of Manpower.'' December 10, 2018. Accessed on 30 January 2019. Retrieved from : https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/work-permit-for-foreign-domestic-worker/eligibility-and-requirements/six-monthly-medical-examination</ref>


==Post-arrival administrative procedures==
==Settling-In Programme (SIP)==
Employers have to send a first-time foreign domestic worker for the Settling-In Programme (SIP) within 3 days of her arrival in Singapore. This is a 1-day orientation programme to educate the workers on safety precautions and living in Singapore. The course will be conducted in the helper’s native language and the SGD$75 course fee will be borne by the employer. The employer should register the foreign domestic help for the SIP before her arrival. Registration for the course at various locations can be made on the MOM website ([https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/work-permit-for-foreign-domestic-worker/eligibility-and-requirements/settling-in-programme-sip MOM registration portal]).


===Medical Examination===
The foreign domestic worker has to be sent for a medical examination within 2 weeks of her arrival in Singapore. The doctor must be registered in Singapore. The medical examination form ([https://www.mom.gov.sg/~/media/mom/documents/services-forms/passes/medical_form.pdf?la=en MOM medical form]) should brought along on the day of doctor's appointment. If the individual is infected with tuberculosis, HIV, syphilis or malaria, she will be sent home as she is unfit for work.<ref>“Pre-employment medical examination for FDW”. ''Ministry of Manpower''. October 27, 2016. Accessed on 29 January 2019. Retrieved from: https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/work-permit-for-foreign-domestic-worker/eligibility-and-requirements/medical-examination</ref> Employers must submit the completed medical examination form when requesting for the issuance of the Work Permit.


===Work Permit issuance===
The foreign domestic worker should complete her SIP course within the first 3 working days of her arrival.
Employers should accessed the MOM online service ([https://www.mom.gov.sg/eservices/services/work-permit-transactions-for-domestic-helpers-and-confinement-nannies online service portal]) to request for the Work Permit to be issued. The address to which the card will be delivered must be provided. Employers can also nominate up to 3 authorised recipients to receive the card, provided that the details of their personal information have been submitted. An online payment of SGD$30 (SGD$35 if request is made after 1 April 2019) must be made before the printing of the Temporary Work Permit.


==Salary==
During the foreign domestic worker’s stay in Singapore, the employer will be responsible for her general well-being. Any breaching of rules may result in legal penalties or revocation of the Work Permit.


The '''Temporary Work Permit''' is valid for 1 month from the date of issue and it must be given to the foreign domestic worker as it allows her to work, stay, travel in and out of Singapore while waiting for the official Work Permit card to be delivered. The Work Permit card will be delivered 4 working days after the verification of registration documents. The Temporary Work Permit will also state whether the foreign domestic worker is required to register her fingerprints and photo at the MOM Service Centre. If it is required, registration must be done within 1 week of issuing the Work Permit. An online booking ([https://www.mom.gov.sg/eservices/services/make-an-appointment MOM appointment booking portal]) must be made before the actual day of the appointment.


==During employment==
During the foreign domestic worker’s stay in Singapore, the employer will be responsible for her general well-being. Any breaching of rules may result in legal penalties or revocation of the Work Permit.
===Payments===
The domestic help must be paid every month, and her '''salary''' should not be lower than what the employer declared to MOM. With effect from 1 May 2017, all Filipino foreign domestic workers working Singapore must be paid a minimum of SGD$570 monthly. The Indonesian government also requires domestic help from Indonesia to be paid at least SGD$550 per month.<ref>Ong, Tanya. “Foreign domestic helper in S’pore declines pay raise to S$800, says she is ‘already receiving too much”. ''Mothership''. May 18, 2018. Accessed on 30 January 2019. Retrieved from:  https://mothership.sg/2018/05/foreign-domestic-helper-declined-salary-increment/</ref> Employers are encouraged to transfer the salary directly into their local bank account. Cash payments are also allowed but employers are required to keep a record of the salary payments. With effect from 1 January 2019, employers are no longer allowed to safe-keep their domestic help’s money, bank book or card even if she requests for it.
The domestic help must be paid every month, and her '''salary''' should not be lower than what the employer declared to MOM. With effect from 1 May 2017, all Filipino foreign domestic workers working Singapore must be paid a minimum of SGD$570 monthly. The Indonesian government also requires domestic help from Indonesia to be paid at least SGD$550 per month.<ref>Ong, Tanya. “Foreign domestic helper in S’pore declines pay raise to S$800, says she is ‘already receiving too much”. ''Mothership''. May 18, 2018. Accessed on 30 January 2019. Retrieved from:  https://mothership.sg/2018/05/foreign-domestic-helper-declined-salary-increment/</ref> Employers are encouraged to transfer the salary directly into their local bank account. Cash payments are also allowed but employers are required to keep a record of the salary payments. With effect from 1 January 2019, employers are no longer allowed to safe-keep their domestic help’s money, bank book or card even if she requests for it.


 
== Foreign worker levy ==
Employers are also required to pay a monthly levy through GIRO. The '''foreign worker levy''' is a pricing mechanism that regulates the number of foreign workers in Singapore.<ref>“Paying levy for a foreign domestic worker”. ''Ministry of Manpower.'' August 17, 2018. Accessed on 30 January 2019. Retrieved from: https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/work-permit-for-foreign-domestic-worker/foreign-domestic-worker-levy/paying-levy</ref> The levy will begin on the 5th day of arrival for first-time foreign domestic workers and the following day of arrival for non first-timers. Employers who are under the normal levy scheme will have to pay a monthly rate of SGD$265, while those eligible for '''levy concession''' will pay SGD$60. Employers who live with a Singaporean citizen child or grandchild who is under the age of 16 will be eligible to apply for the concession rate under the '''Young child or grandchild scheme'''. Individuals who are aged 65 or above, or live with an elderly member, can qualify for the '''Aged person scheme''' under the concession rate. However, with effect from 1 April 2019, the qualifying age for the Aged person scheme will be raised to 67 years old, in light of the improving life expectancy and health in Singapore.<ref>“Levy concession for a foreign domestic worker.” ''Ministry of Manpower''. August 3, 2018. Accessed on 30 January 2019. Retrieved from: https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/work-permit-for-foreign-domestic-worker/foreign-domestic-worker-levy/levy-concession</ref> If the employer has a family member who needs permanent help in at least 1 daily activity (showering, feeding etc), he can apply for the '''Persons With Disabilities scheme''' through Singapore Silver Pages ([https://www.silverpages.sg/ official website]). All other applications should be made through MOM’s online service ([https://form.gov.sg/#!/forms/mom/5b18fbddd1b046001a65ef3c MOM levy service portal]).
Employers are also required to pay a monthly levy through GIRO. The '''foreign worker levy''' is a pricing mechanism that regulates the number of foreign workers in Singapore.<ref>“Paying levy for a foreign domestic worker”. ''Ministry of Manpower.'' August 17, 2018. Accessed on 30 January 2019. Retrieved from: https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/work-permit-for-foreign-domestic-worker/foreign-domestic-worker-levy/paying-levy</ref> The levy will begin on the 5th day of arrival for first-time foreign domestic workers and the following day of arrival for non first-timers. Employers who are under the normal levy scheme will have to pay a monthly rate of SGD$265, while those eligible for '''levy concession''' will pay SGD$60.  
 
===Welfare===
Employers are also required to provide the foreign domestic help with daily necessities such as 3 meals per day, basic amenities and a room with adequate shelter and privacy, even if she is sharing the room with someone else.




All helpers are also entitled to a weekly '''rest day''' if her Work Permit was issued or renewed after 1 January 2013. If the domestic help agrees to work on her rest day, she must be compensated with 1 day’s worth of salary.<ref>“Rest days and well-being for foreign domestic workers”. ''Ministry of Manpower.'' December 6, 2018. Accessed on 30 January 2019. Retrieved from: https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/work-permit-for-foreign-domestic-worker/employers-guide/rest-days-and-well-being</ref> Additionally, a foreign domestic worker must be sent for the '''Six-monthly medical examination (6ME)''' and the cost will be borne by the employer. It includes a pregnancy and syphilis test which occurs every 6 months, and a HIV and tuberculosis test every 2 years.<ref>“Six-monthly medical examination (6ME) for foreign domestic worker (FDW)”. ''Ministry of Manpower.'' December 10, 2018. Accessed on 30 January 2019. Retrieved from : https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/work-permit-for-foreign-domestic-worker/eligibility-and-requirements/six-monthly-medical-examination</ref>
Employers who live with a Singaporean citizen child or grandchild who is under the age of 16 will be eligible to apply for the concession rate under the '''Young child or grandchild scheme'''. Individuals who are aged 65 or above, or live with an elderly member, can qualify for the '''Aged person scheme''' under the concession rate. However, with effect from 1 April 2019, the qualifying age for the Aged person scheme will be raised to 67 years old, in light of the improving life expectancy and health in Singapore.<ref>“Levy concession for a foreign domestic worker.''Ministry of Manpower''. August 3, 2018. Accessed on 30 January 2019. Retrieved from: https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/work-permit-for-foreign-domestic-worker/foreign-domestic-worker-levy/levy-concession</ref> If the employer has a family member who needs permanent help in at least 1 daily activity (showering, feeding etc), he can apply for the '''Persons With Disabilities scheme''' through Singapore Silver Pages ([https://www.silverpages.sg/ official website]). All other applications should be made through MOM’s online service ([https://form.gov.sg/#!/forms/mom/5b18fbddd1b046001a65ef3c MOM levy service portal]).


==References / Citations==
==References / Citations==
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[[Category:Adulting Guides]]

Latest revision as of 11:34, 29 November 2019

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) is the main body involved in this process.

This is an entry about foreign workers who serve as domestic help in Singapore.

As of the latest population statistics in June 2018, there are 250,100 foreign domestic workers in Singapore. Most of these workers come from Indonesia, Philippines and Myanmar.[1]

Requirements

Before hiring a foreign domestic worker, there are a few prerequisites for the parties involved.

Foreign Domestic Workers

The foreign domestic worker must fulfill the following requirements to be hired.

Age Nationality Education
  • > 22 years old
  • < 50 years old
These countries have been approved by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM):[2]
  • Bangladesh
  • Cambodia
  • Hong Kong
  • India
  • Indonesia
  • Macau
  • Malaysia
  • Myanmar
  • Philippines
  • South Korea
  • Sri Lanka
  • Taiwan
  • Thailand

Potential employers must not hire a helper outside of the above countries.

8 years of formal education

Additionally, the worker must not be related to the employer.

Employer

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) will consider the applicant’s financial ability to hire, house and care for the domestic worker in an acceptable living environment.[3]

Age Citizenship Annual Household income
< 20 years old
  • Singapore Citizen
  • Long Term Visit Pass
Maid agencies in Singapore estimate the following:
  • <S$30,000

According to the MOM, they cannot quote an official amount.[4] This criteria is judged based on external factors such as the type of application and the number of people in the household. However, the following is confirmed:

  • Employers must not be bankrupt at the time of application.

For applicants looking to hire more than one domestic helper, they must have 2 or more young children (below 18 years old) or a parent or parent-in-law over 60 years old living in the same household.

Employers’ Orientation Programme (EOP)

All first-time applicants need to attend the Employers' Orientation Programme. The EOP is a compulsory 3-hour course that helps applicants understand their responsibilities as an employer. For example:

  • Provide the domestic help with 3 meals a day, basic amenities and a room (with adequate shelter and privacy)
  • All help is entitled to a weekly rest day. If they agree to work on their rest day, they must be compensated with 1 day’s worth of salary.[5]


The EOP must be completed at least 2 working days before submitting the Work Permit application.[6] Applicants can take the course in person or online. Upon completion, applicants will receive a certificate acknowledged by MOM.[7]

Venue Fee (SGD) Registration Notes
Professional & Adult Continuing Education (PACE) Academy


Address: Singapore Polytechnic, Room T1A12, Blk T1A, 500 Dover Road

Singapore 139651

$34.50 Online registration Only conducted in English.
Nation Employment Pte Ltd


Address: 135 Jurong Gateway Road, #05-317, Singapore 600135

$30 Walk-in Conducted in English and Mandarin on alternate weeks.
Online $46 Online registration Only conducted in English.

Work permit

The Work Permit in Singapore lasts for 2 years. Employers can choose to apply manually or through an online portal.

Summary

The whole process of getting a work permit costs SGD$70. The breakdown of costs can be seen below.[8]

Fee(s) (SGD) Register Processing time Notes
Application $35 Application form (manual registration)

Online registration

Processing time:
  • 1 week (online registration)
  • 3 weeks (manual registration)
Successful applicants will receive an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter.
  • They will have to print the IPA and mail it to the helper as they will need it at immigration customs.
Issuance $35 Online issuance Delivery time:
  • 4 working days (after verification of documents)
The helper will be issued a Temporary Work Permit while waiting for the official Work Permit card.

The helper may have to register her fingerprints and photo at MOM.

Documents needed

For online registration, employers will need to retrieve written consent from the helper. These are the additional documents needed for manual applications:[9]

  • Employers' passports (copies)
  • Employee's passport OR travel document (copy)
  • Birth certificates / identity cards (copies)
  • Documents verifying the employer's income

Types of application

Joint Income Scheme

Employers can also apply for the work permit under the Joint Income Scheme by combining income with another working family member (except for spouse) in the same household. Besides fulfilling all the basic requirements, applicants under this scheme must be the one receiving a higher salary compared to the other family member under the same application.

Sponsorship Scheme

The Sponsorship Scheme allows senior citizens to apply for a Work Permit based on the income of up to 2 sponsors. To qualify for this scheme, applicant must be a Singapore Citizen or PR who is 60 years old and above. He or she must not be earning any income or staying with any working adults. The sponsors may be the applicant’s children or children’s spouse, grandchildren or grandchildren’s spouse or the applicant’s siblings.


Employers can select these schemes online when applying for the Work Permit.

Security bond

The Security Bond is a binding pledge between the employer and the Singapore government. It is meant to protect the welfare of the foreign domestic help. Should the employer break the law or go against the conditions governing the employment of a foreign domestic worker, they will be fined up to SGD$5,000 by the Singapore government. Every employer has to purchase the bond, unless the foreign domestic worker hired is a Malaysian.[10] Bonds usually take the form of an insurance or banker’s guarantee.[11] The details of the security bond has to be sent to MOM before the domestic help arrives or she will be refused entry into Singapore.


The bond will be forfeited if the employer or foreign domestic worker violated any of the conditions of the Work Permit or security bond, if the helper’s salary was not paid on time or the employer failed to send her back when her Work Permit is no longer valid. The bond will be discharged only when the Work Permit has been cancelled by the employer, the helper has returned home and the employer did not breach any of the conditions of the security bond.

Healthcare

Insurance

Employers need to purchase medical insurance with a coverage of at least SGD$15,000 per year for inpatient care and day surgery during the helper’s stay in Singapore. If the Work Permit is applied or renewed from 1 October 2017 onwards, a Personal accident insurance with a coverage of at least SGD$60,000 per year has to be bought for the helper. This insurance must cover sudden, unforeseen and unexpected incidents resulting in permanent disability or death. All compensations must be made payable to the helper or her beneficiaries.

Medical examinations

The foreign domestic worker has to be sent for a medical examination within 2 weeks of her arrival in Singapore. The doctor must be registered in Singapore. The medical examination form (MOM medical form) should brought along on the day of doctor's appointment. If the individual is infected with tuberculosis, HIV, syphilis or malaria, she will be sent home as she is unfit for work.[12] Employers must submit the completed medical examination form when requesting for the issuance of the Work Permit.


Once hired, a foreign domestic worker must be sent for the Six-monthly medical examination (6ME) and the cost will be borne by the employer. It includes a pregnancy and syphilis test which occurs every 6 months, and a HIV and tuberculosis test every 2 years.[13]

Settling-In Programme (SIP)

Employers have to send a first-time foreign domestic worker for the Settling-In Programme (SIP) within 3 days of her arrival in Singapore. This is a 1-day orientation programme to educate the workers on safety precautions and living in Singapore. The course will be conducted in the helper’s native language and the SGD$75 course fee will be borne by the employer. The employer should register the foreign domestic help for the SIP before her arrival. Registration for the course at various locations can be made on the MOM website (MOM registration portal).


The foreign domestic worker should complete her SIP course within the first 3 working days of her arrival.

Salary

During the foreign domestic worker’s stay in Singapore, the employer will be responsible for her general well-being. Any breaching of rules may result in legal penalties or revocation of the Work Permit.


The domestic help must be paid every month, and her salary should not be lower than what the employer declared to MOM. With effect from 1 May 2017, all Filipino foreign domestic workers working Singapore must be paid a minimum of SGD$570 monthly. The Indonesian government also requires domestic help from Indonesia to be paid at least SGD$550 per month.[14] Employers are encouraged to transfer the salary directly into their local bank account. Cash payments are also allowed but employers are required to keep a record of the salary payments. With effect from 1 January 2019, employers are no longer allowed to safe-keep their domestic help’s money, bank book or card even if she requests for it.

Foreign worker levy

Employers are also required to pay a monthly levy through GIRO. The foreign worker levy is a pricing mechanism that regulates the number of foreign workers in Singapore.[15] The levy will begin on the 5th day of arrival for first-time foreign domestic workers and the following day of arrival for non first-timers. Employers who are under the normal levy scheme will have to pay a monthly rate of SGD$265, while those eligible for levy concession will pay SGD$60.


Employers who live with a Singaporean citizen child or grandchild who is under the age of 16 will be eligible to apply for the concession rate under the Young child or grandchild scheme. Individuals who are aged 65 or above, or live with an elderly member, can qualify for the Aged person scheme under the concession rate. However, with effect from 1 April 2019, the qualifying age for the Aged person scheme will be raised to 67 years old, in light of the improving life expectancy and health in Singapore.[16] If the employer has a family member who needs permanent help in at least 1 daily activity (showering, feeding etc), he can apply for the Persons With Disabilities scheme through Singapore Silver Pages (official website). All other applications should be made through MOM’s online service (MOM levy service portal).

References / Citations

  1. “Foreign workforce numbers”. Ministry of Manpower. November 12, 2018. Accessed on 29 January 2019. Retrieved from: https://www.mom.gov.sg/documents-and-publications/foreign-workforce-numbers
  2. Foreign domestic worker eligibility”. Ministry of Manpower. November 15, 2018. Accessed on 29 January 2019.
  3. “Summary of everything you need to know before hiring a domestic worker”. HelperChoice. Accessed on 29 January 2019. Retrieved from: https://www.helperchoice.com/singapore/domestic-helper
  4. "What is the minimum income needed to employ an FDW?". Ministry of Manpower. Accessed on 28 November 2019.
  5. Rest days and well-being for foreign domestic workers”. Ministry of Manpower. December 6, 2018. Accessed on 30 January 2019.
  6. Employers’ Orientation Programme (EOP)”. Ministry of Manpower. July 17, 2018. Accessed on 29 January 2019.
  7. "FDW-EOP Foreign Domestic Worker Employers' Orientation Programme (Online)". Singapore Polytechnic. Accessed on 28 February 2019.
  8. Apply for a Work Permit for foreign domestic worker.” Ministry of Manpower. January 14, 2019. Accessed on 29 January 2019.
  9. Ministry of Manpower. "Application for a foreign domestic helper work permit". Updated on October 3, 2018. Accessed on 28 February 2019.
  10. “Security bond requirements for foreign domestic worker”. Ministry of Manpower. June 21, 2018. Accessed on 29 January 2019. Retrieved from: https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/work-permit-for-foreign-domestic-worker/eligibility-and-requirements/security-bond
  11. Lin, Peter. “Cost of Hiring a Domestic Helper in Singapore”. Moneysmart. April 24, 2018. Accessed on 29 January 2019. Retrieved from: https://blog.moneysmart.sg/family/cost-hiring-domestic-helper-singapore/
  12. “Pre-employment medical examination for FDW”. Ministry of Manpower. October 27, 2016. Accessed on 29 January 2019. Retrieved from: https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/work-permit-for-foreign-domestic-worker/eligibility-and-requirements/medical-examination
  13. “Six-monthly medical examination (6ME) for foreign domestic worker (FDW)”. Ministry of Manpower. December 10, 2018. Accessed on 30 January 2019. Retrieved from : https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/work-permit-for-foreign-domestic-worker/eligibility-and-requirements/six-monthly-medical-examination
  14. Ong, Tanya. “Foreign domestic helper in S’pore declines pay raise to S$800, says she is ‘already receiving too much”. Mothership. May 18, 2018. Accessed on 30 January 2019. Retrieved from:  https://mothership.sg/2018/05/foreign-domestic-helper-declined-salary-increment/
  15. “Paying levy for a foreign domestic worker”. Ministry of Manpower. August 17, 2018. Accessed on 30 January 2019. Retrieved from: https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/work-permit-for-foreign-domestic-worker/foreign-domestic-worker-levy/paying-levy
  16. “Levy concession for a foreign domestic worker.” Ministry of Manpower. August 3, 2018. Accessed on 30 January 2019. Retrieved from: https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/work-permit-for-foreign-domestic-worker/foreign-domestic-worker-levy/levy-concession