Singapore is a busy city where families often balance long working hours, childcare, and caring for elderly parents. That’s why many households rely on maids Singapore for daily support.

According to MOM data, more than 268,000 foreign domestic workers (FDWs) are employed in Singapore as of 2024. This shows how vital they are in keeping households running smoothly.

If you’re just starting your search, platforms like maids Singapore make it easier to compare agencies, check reviews, and find the right helper.

Best Agencies for Maids Singapore

Finding the best agency matters as much as hiring the right helper. Reliable agencies usually provide:

• MOM Licensing – Legally registered to operate.
• Clear Costing – Transparent breakdowns of fees and no hidden charges.
• Proper Training – Helpers receive childcare, elderly care, or household training before placement.
• Replacement Policy – If the match doesn’t work, a quick replacement is offered.
• Good Reviews – Agencies with high MOM ratings and positive family feedback.

Agencies that combine professionalism with strong aftercare services are the ones families trust most.

Cost of Hiring Maids in Singapore (2025 Update)

When hiring a maid, families should consider more than just the monthly salary. Here’s a full cost guide:

• Agency Fee: SGD 1,000 – SGD 3,000
• The placement fee : cannot exceed two months of the helper’s salary by law.
• Monthly Salary: SGD 600 – SGD 900 (depending on nationality and experience)
• Levy: Standard levy is SGD 300; concessions lower it to SGD 60
• Insurance: SGD 300 – 500 for mandatory medical and accident coverage
• Security Bond: SGD 5,000 per helper (not upfront cash but a required guarantee)

On average, families spend over SGD 10,000 in the first year, including salary, levy, food, housing, and other fees.

Reliable Helpers: Traits That Matter Most

Hiring through the right agency ensures access to reliable helpers who are screened and trained. Qualities to look for include:

• Consistency – Sticks to routines and completes tasks well.
• Good Communication – Basic English or Mandarin skills to avoid confusion.
• Relevant Experience – Elderly care, infant care, or household management.
• Commitment – Helpers who stay longer build trust and stability

Family Experiences with Maids Singapore

• Mrs. Chua, Toa Payoh:
  “We found our Indonesian helper through a recommended agency. She takes care of my elderly mother with patience and reliability. Truly life-changing.”
• Mr. Goh, Ang Mo Kio:
  “I wasted money on my first agency, hidden fees and poor support. After switching to a MOM-accredited agency, I finally got a reliable helper who fits our family.”
• Shirin, Hougang:
  “As a working mum of two, having my Filipino helper has truly been a blessing for our family.”She helps with school routines and cooking. The agency’s childcare training for her made all the difference.”

These experiences show how much agency quality impacts success.

Updated Rules for Employers in 2025

To protect both families and workers, MOM enforces key rules:

• Rest Day: Every helper must get at least one full day off each month, and it cannot be replaced with cash.
• Placement Fee Cap: No more than 2 months of salary allowed.
• EOP (Employer Orientation Programme): Mandatory for all first-time employers before they can hire a maid.
• SIP (Settling-In Programme):A 1-day course for new helpers within 14 days.
• Levy Concessions: Families with elderly or children below 16 pay less.
• Employer Penalties: Illegal deployment or abuse leads to fines or bans.

Types of Maids in Singapore

Different families need different types of helpers:

1. Childcare Helpers – For newborns, toddlers, and school children.
2. Elderly Care Helpers – Skilled in mobility support and medical reminders.
3. General Household Helpers – Cleaning, cooking, laundry, and daily routines.
4. Transfer Helpers – Already in Singapore and available for immediate hiring.

By nationality:

• Filipino Helpers – Fluent in English, strong childcare experience.
• Indonesian Helpers – Adaptable, often skilled in elderly care.
• Myanmar Helpers – Affordable and growing in demand.

Common Challenges Employers Face

Even with good agencies, employers may face issues such as:

• Cultural Differences – Language or food habits that need adjustment.
• Homesickness – Helpers missing their families can affect morale.
• Mismatch in Skills – Assigning childcare to a maid only trained in housekeeping.

Agencies with training centers and post-placement support help reduce these challenges.

How to Choose the Best Maid Agency

Before signing with an agency, check this quick list:

• MOM license and accreditation
• Transparent breakdown of fees
• Reviews from real employers
• Clear replacement policies
• Specialization in your needs (childcare, elderly care, general household)

Choosing the right agency reduces stress and gives families peace of mind.

Future of Maids Singapore

The demand for helpers will continue to grow as Singapore faces an aging population and more dual-income households. The future focus will be on:

• Fair Treatment – Helpers must receive proper rest days and work under fair contracts.
• Skill-Based Placement – More specialized helpers for elderly or infant care.
• Technology Platforms – Easier online comparison of agencies and helpers.

This evolution benefits both families and workers, creating a more sustainable system.

FAQs about Maids Singapore

1. How much does it cost to hire maids in Singapore?

Between SGD 600–900 monthly salary, plus agency fees, levy, and insurance.

2. Do maid agencies in Singapore need a license?

Yes, agencies must be registered with the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).

3. What is the standard levy for maids in Singapore?

SGD 300, reduced to SGD 60 for eligible families with children or the elderly.

4. What is the Employer Orientation Programme (EOP)?

A course that first-time employers must attend before hiring a helper.

5. What is the Settling-In Programme (SIP)?

A one-day course that first-time helpers must attend within 14 days.

6. Can I hire a maid directly without an agency?

Yes, but agencies handle paperwork and provide support, making it easier.

7. What happens if my maid is not suitable?

Reliable agencies offer replacement helpers during the contract period.

8. Are placement fees legal in Singapore?

Yes, but they are capped at two months of the helper’s salary.

9. Do helpers get rest days?

Yes, at least one rest day per month is mandatory and cannot be bought out.

10. Where can I compare maid agencies?

You can use trusted online platforms and MOM ratings to compare options.