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Hiring a Myanmar Maid in Singapore: What You Need to Know
Thinking of hiring a live-in helper to ease the load at home? Myanmar maids in Singapore, are a top pick due to their gentle nature, eagerness to learn, and generally lower hiring costs. They tend to adapt well to life here, especially with clear guidance and the right agency backing them. That’s where Gallant Manpower comes in—trusted and experienced in matching families with well-trained Myanmar maids. In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—legal requirements, costs, and smart tips—so you can hire with confidence.
Legal Checklist: Understanding MOM’s Hiring Rules
To legally hire a Myanmar maid in Singapore, both employers and domestic workers must meet specific criteria set by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). An employer must be at least 21 years old, not be an undischarged bankrupt, and possess the mental capacity to understand and fulfil their responsibilities. Additionally, MOM assesses the employer’s financial ability to support the maid, including providing acceptable accommodation and ensuring her well-being. First-time employers are required to attend the Employer Orientation Programme (EOP) to thoroughly understand their obligations.
On the other hand, the domestic worker must be a female aged between 23 and 50 years at the time of the Work Permit application. She should have a minimum of 8 years of formal education with a recognized certificate. Myanmar is one of the officially approved countries by MOM for hiring domestic helpers in Singapore. If it’s her first time here, she’ll need to attend the Settling-In Programme (SIP), which helps her adjust to life and work expectations in Singapore. As an employer, you’re also required to play your part: that means getting a $5,000 security bond and proper medical and personal accident insurance for her. It’s all about making sure both you and your helper are protected from day one!
However, navigating these requirements can be complex, but partnering with a reputable helper agency in Singapore can simplify the process. They ensure that all legal obligations are met and assist families in finding suitable Myanmar maids. Whether you’re seeking assistance with household chores, or childcare, or looking for a maid for cooking in Singapore, Gallant Manpower provides comprehensive support throughout the hiring process.
Steps To Hiring A Myanmar Maid In Singapore:
Hiring a domestic helper doesn’t have to be overwhelming—especially if you follow the right steps and work with a licensed agency. Here’s how to do it the right way:
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Choose a Licensed Maid Agency
Start by selecting a reliable helper agency in Singapore that’s licensed by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). Gallant Manpower guides you through the entire process—screening candidates, handling paperwork, and ensuring all legal requirements are met.
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Interview and Select the Maid
Once the agency provides suitable profiles, you’ll get the chance to interview potential helpers. This step is crucial. Discuss job expectations clearly, whether it’s childcare, elderly care, or basic pet care, to make sure there’s a mutual understanding from the beginning.
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Submit the Application to MOM
After you’ve chosen your maid, the agency will help you submit a Work Permit application through the MOM online portal. This includes declaring your eligibility and getting approval to employ a foreign domestic worker.
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Arrange a Security Bond and Insurance
You’ll need to purchase a security bond (unless waived under certain conditions) and buy medical and personal accident insurance for your maid.
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Complete Medical Exams and Settling-In Programme (SIP)
When the maid arrives in Singapore, she must undergo a medical exam within 2 weeks. If she passes, MOM will issue her Work Permit. For first-time workers, attending the Settling-In Programme (SIP) is also mandatory—it’s a one-day course that covers basic safety, local norms, and workers’ rights.
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Orientation and Integration into Your Home
Once everything’s approved, it’s time to bring her home. Offer proper training, be clear about her duties, and allow time for adjustment. If any issues come up, the agency can always help with mediation or replacement if needed.
From Salary To Work Permit: What You’ll Need To Spend On A Domestic Helper
Hiring a Myanmar maid in Singapore involves both one-time and recurring costs that employers should be aware of from the outset. To begin, you’ll need to go through a licensed maid employment agency in Singapore, which will take care of screening, interviews, documentation, and matching the right helper to your household needs. Agency fees vary depending on the helper’s experience, whether she’s a transfer or fresh candidate, and the level of service offered—such as training, replacement guarantees, or post-placement support. After selecting your maid, you’ll also need to submit a Work Permit application through Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM), which includes a non-refundable fee of S$70.
Once the maid is hired and starts working, the recurring monthly costs kick in. Myanmar maids in Singapore generally earn $500 onwards, depending on their skills, experience, and assigned responsibilities. For instance, if you’re hiring someone with cooking or eldercare expertise, you may be on the higher end of that range. In addition to salary, you’ll be required to pay a monthly levy of S$300, though families with young children, elderly, or persons with disabilities may qualify for a reduced levy of S$60. Employers are also legally obligated to purchase medical and personal accident insurance, each with a minimum coverage of S$60,000, to protect the helper in case of illness or injury. Plus, your maid must undergo a medical check-up every six months, which usually costs around S$70 per visit.
Another ongoing cost to keep in mind is the Work Permit renewal, which typically occurs every two years. The renewal fee is S$35, and it’s your responsibility to ensure it is processed before the existing permit expires. MOM may also require updated medical reports as part of the renewal process, so it’s wise to factor that into your long-term budgeting as well.
Smart Tips For The First Time Employers: Key Considerations Before Hiring
- Define your household needs clearly— whether it’s cooking, childcare, or eldercare—so you can match the maid’s skills accordingly.
- Choose a licensed agency that’s known for ethical hiring, transparent fees, and proper training.
- Always interview the maid to assess her experience, language skills, and alignment with your home’s expectations.
- Be mindful of communication barriers, and be ready to guide her patiently during the adjustment period.
- Agree on rest days and house rules upfront to avoid misunderstandings later.
- Don’t choose based on salary alone—attitude, experience, and willingness to learn matter more.
Summary:
Hiring a Myanmar maid in Singapore requires more than just paperwork—it’s about making smart, informed decisions that meet both legal requirements and household needs. From eligibility checks and work permits to costs like salary, levy, insurance, and medicals, there are several factors employers must plan for. First-time employers should also prepare for proper onboarding to ensure a smooth relationship with their helper. Reach out to Gallant Manpower today to get expert guidance, vetted candidates and an assurance of full compliance with MOM regulations.