How long does it take to process the Work Permit for Foreign Domestic Worker?

The processing time is generally quick, typically about 1 to 3 weeks, provided that all documents are in order and there are no issues.

Can I renew the Work Permit for my Domestic Worker?

Yes, the work permit for a foreign domestic worker can be renewed online through the Ministry of Manpower’s website before the current permit expires.

What happens if my domestic worker fails the medical examination?

If your domestic worker fails the medical exam, she cannot be issued a work permit and you will need to repatriate her back to her home country.

What are the primary responsibilities of an employer of a foreign domestic worker?

As an employer, you are responsible for her salary, medical care, accommodation, and ensuring her well-being during her employment with you.

How can I check the status of my work permit application?

You can check the status of your work permit application through the Ministry of Manpower’s website using your application number or SingPass login.

Is there a levy for hiring a foreign domestic worker?

Yes, employers are required to pay a monthly levy. The amount can vary depending on various factors such as whether it’s your first helper and other criteria.

What should I do if my foreign domestic worker wants to change employers?

If your domestic worker wishes to change employers, you should contact the Ministry of Manpower for proper procedures and ensure legal compliance.

What training or orientation must a foreign domestic worker undergo upon arriving in Singapore?

New foreign domestic workers must attend the Settling-In Programme (SIP), which includes training on safety, living in Singapore, and their rights and responsibilities.

Can I hire a foreign domestic worker directly without an agency?

Yes, you can hire a foreign domestic worker directly without an agency, but you must ensure to follow all the guidelines and requirements laid out by the Ministry of Manpower.

What are the living conditions I need to provide for my foreign domestic worker?

You must provide reasonable accommodation with basic amenities and privacy, among other living conditions as mentioned by the Ministry of Manpower.

Singapore Work Permit for Foreign Domestic Worker Guide: Application Process, Requirements & Tips

What Is the Singapore Work Permit for Foreign Domestic Worker?

A Work Permit for Foreign Domestic Worker allows eligible foreign nationals to be employed in Singapore as domestic helpers. Entitled candidates are typically women aged between 23 and 50 from approved source countries such as Indonesia, the Philippines, Myanmar, and others. The goal of this visa is to provide families in Singapore with essential domestic help while ensuring that the workers have legal and regulated employment, with access to fair working conditions and rights.

Work Permit for Foreign Domestic Worker Requirements for Singapore

Explore the key requirements for obtaining your Work Permit for Foreign Domestic Worker for Singapore. This section covers the necessary documentation, eligibility criteria, and any specific conditions you must meet to successfully apply for and secure your visa.

Age and Source Country Criteria
The foreign domestic worker must be a female aged between 23 to 50 years and come from an approved source country like Indonesia, the Philippines, Myanmar, etc.
Work Permit Application Form
Complete the Work Permit application form available on the Ministry of Manpower’s website, with all necessary details and supplementary documents.
Medical Examination
Your foreign domestic worker must undergo a medical examination in Singapore within two weeks of arrival and pass it to be eligible for the work permit.
Employer Orientation Program
New employers must complete the Employer Orientation Program before submitting the application to ensure they understand their responsibilities.

How to Apply for Singapore Work Permit for Foreign Domestic Worker

Understand the process of applying for an Singapore Work Permit for Foreign Domestic Worker, including key steps, document submission, and what to expect throughout the application.

Attend Employer Orientation Program
As a new employer of a foreign domestic worker, you are required to attend the Employer Orientation Program (EOP) before submitting the work permit application. This helps you understand your roles and responsibilities.
Submit Work Permit Application
Log in to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) website and submit the work permit application online. Ensure all the required details and documents are provided accurately.
Receive In-Principle Approval
If your application is successful, you will receive an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter, which your foreign domestic worker will need to enter Singapore.
Arrange Medical Examination
Upon the foreign domestic worker's arrival in Singapore, arrange for her medical examination within two weeks. The worker must pass this check to proceed with the issuance of the work permit.
Complete Work Permit Issuance
Once the medical examination is completed and passed, log in to the MOM website again to complete the work permit issuance. You will receive the Work Permit Card thereafter.

Useful Singapore Work Permit for Foreign Domestic Worker Resources

Ministry of Manpower (MOM)

Work Permit for Foreign Domestic Worker

Employer Orientation Program (EOP)

Settling-In Programme (SIP)

Singapore Work Permit for Foreign Domestic Worker Advice

Make sure your prospective foreign domestic worker meets all the eligibility criteria before starting the application process. Carefully review all the requirements and gather the necessary documentation well in advance to avoid any delays. Also, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the rights and obligations toward your domestic worker to create a healthy and fair working environment.

Singapore Work Permit for Foreign Domestic Worker Guide

What Is the Singapore Work Permit for Foreign Domestic Worker?

Work Permit for Foreign Domestic Worker Requirements for Singapore

Age and Source Country Criteria

Work Permit Application Form

Medical Examination

Employer Orientation Program

How to Apply for Singapore Work Permit for Foreign Domestic Worker

Attend Employer Orientation Program

Submit Work Permit Application

Receive In-Principle Approval

Arrange Medical Examination

Complete Work Permit Issuance

Useful Singapore Work Permit for Foreign Domestic Worker Resources

Singapore Work Permit for Foreign Domestic Worker Advice

Frequently Asked Questions

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