Hiring a maid is a common solution for households that need help with daily household chores, childcare, or eldercare.
If you’re planning to hire a maid, it is a good idea to know how much to hire a maid in Singapore. Below, we have a detailed breakdown to help you understand what to expect.
How Much to Hire a Maid in Singapore
Initial Costs
Most of the following are incurred when you first bring the maid into Singapore.
- Agency fees
These are the fees you pay to an agency for hiring a maid. Typically, it costs S$1,000-S$3,000, sometimes more for specialized services.
- Work Permit application and issuance
The maid has to have a Work Permit to work in Singapore. The costs are around S$35 + S$35.
- Settling-In Programme
If this is the first time the maid works in Singapore, she has to attend the Settling-In Programme. It costs around S$75.
- Security bond
It costs S$5,000 and is refundable if conditions are met.
- Maid insurance
Medical insurance and personal accident insurance are mandatory for maids. It costs around S$400-S$750 for 2 years.
- Placement or maid loan fees
Around S$1,000-S$2,500. These fees are often deducted from the maid’s salary.
- Medical checkups and vaccinations
Around S$80-S$120.
How much to hire a maid in Singapore? The total initial setup (excluding the security bond) is in the S$3,000-$6,000+ range. Including the security bond, around S$8,000-S$10,000. Transfer maids usually cost less upfront because there’s no placement fee or overseas processing.
Ongoing Monthly Costs
These are the recurring costs you’ll pay every month while employing a maid.
- Maid’s salary
Around S$450-S$900, depending on the maid’s nationality and experience.
- Maid levy
The standard maid levy costs S$300. With concession, S$60.
- Food and utilities
As an employer, you must provide suitable accommodation along with daily meals. Food and utilities costs around S$200-S$300 per month, depending on living arrangement and diet.
- Phone and transport
Around S$50-S$100.
- Medical checkups and insurance (averaged)
Around S$20-S$50. Employers are responsible for medical expenses not covered by insurance.
Total monthly cost is usually around S$800-S$1,300+, depending on salary level and whether you qualify for the levy concession.
Salary Expectations
How much to hire a maid in Singapore? You need to take into account salary expectations. Salaries are negotiated between employers and maids. The typical market ranges are
- Myanmar: S$450-S$500 per month
- Sri Lanka: S$497-S$520 per month
- Indonesia: S$550-S$600 per month
- Philippines: S$570-S$650 per month
- Experienced or specialized maids: up to S$700-S$1,000+
Offering a competitive salary helps with retention and reduces turnover costs.
Maid Levy Concession
Families that require domestic help for caregiving are qualified for the concessionary levy. The standard levy is S$300 per month (first maid). If you have a child under 16, an elderly family member aged 67+, or a person with disabilities in the household, you can get the concessionary levy of S$60 per month.
If you qualify, you should get the concessionary levy as it can significantly affect the total monthly cost of hiring a maid.
Also Read: 7 Tips for Building a Good Relationship with Your New Helper from Day One
FAQs How Much to Hire a Maid in Singapore
Is it cheaper to hire a maid directly without an agency?
Yes, direct hiring can save on agency fees. While it is cheaper, it requires more effort. You’ll need to handle paperwork, interviews, insurance, and compliance yourself.
Are maids allowed to do childcare or elderly care?
Yes, but you should ensure the maid has relevant experience or training, especially for elderly or special needs care.
Do I need insurance for a full-time maid?
Yes. Medical and personal accident insurance is mandatory.
What happens if my maid doesn’t work out?
Many agencies offer a free replacement period (usually 3-6 months), though administrative fees may still apply.
Conclusion
Now you know how much to hire a maid in Singapore. Hiring a maid is a significant but often worthwhile investment for families needing daily support. With careful planning and understanding of all expenses, you can avoid surprises and ensure your household runs smoothly with the help of a maid.
Hiring a maid is one thing. Finding the right maid for your household needs is another. At Jayamaids, we understand how important it is to have a good maid who can support your family. We are a trusted Hougang Green maid agency specializing in offering the best Indonesian and Myanmar maids.
With our personalized matching approach, we can help you find the right maid. For any inquiries, contact our friendly staff at Jayamaids.
Also read: 5 Tips for a Successful Maid Interview
