A Guide to Understanding Maid Agency Fees in Singapore
When families in Singapore consider hiring a domestic helper, one of the first questions they ask is: what are maid agency fees? These are only part of the overall cost, which also includes levies, insurance, medical checks, and administrative charges. A reliable maid agency in Singapore ensures all these expenses are clearly explained upfront.
Whether you are comparing affordable options or looking at different recruitment agencies, understanding each cost component helps you plan your budget wisely. This guide breaks down the essential fees, what influences them, and how Master Maid Agency makes the process transparent and fair.
Understanding Maid Agency Fees in Singapore
When families consider the cost of hiring a maid, it is important to remember that the final figure is not just the monthly salary. Employers must account for a combination of one-time charges and recurring monthly expenses. These make up the full scope of maid agency fees in Singapore, and understanding them helps families budget with confidence and avoid unexpected costs.
Working with a reputable maid recruitment agency like Master Maid Agency ensures that each fee is explained clearly and that there are no hidden surprises. Below is a detailed breakdown of the common one-time and monthly expenses, along with a tabular summary for quick reference.
One-time / Upfront Costs
One-time fees are usually paid during the initial hiring process. These costs cover the administrative, legal, and logistical requirements of bringing a helper into your household.
- Agency Service / Placement Fee
This fee is paid directly to the maid agency Singapore you engage. It usually ranges between SGD 1,000 and SGD 3,000, depending on the scope of services. In most cases, this includes candidate matching, documentation, insurance arrangement, medical checks, and even airfare. An affordable maid agency like Master Maid Agency ensures that these services are bundled clearly so families know exactly what they are paying for. - Work Permit and Visa Fees
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) requires a work permit for every foreign domestic worker. The application fee is about SGD 35, and the issuance fee is another SGD 35. These are standard government charges and form a compulsory part of maid agency fees. - Settling-In Programme (SIP)
For first-time helpers, MOM mandates the SIP — a one-day orientation course covering safety and employment rights. The cost is approximately SGD 75–76.40, and it is always borne by the employer. - Medical Examination
Before employment, helpers must undergo a pre-employment medical check-up. This is required to confirm fitness for work and usually costs between SGD 80 and SGD 120, depending on the clinic and the range of tests carried out. - Insurance and Security Bond
MOM requires a SGD 5,000 security bond for each helper (unless the helper is Malaysian). Employers can purchase an insurance plan that includes a Letter of Guarantee in lieu of the bond. Insurance premiums typically cost SGD 250 to SGD 400 or more, depending on the level of coverage. These policies also cover hospitalisation and accident protection. - Airfare and Transportation
Employers are responsible for the helper’s airfare to Singapore. Costs vary by country of origin and airline, usually ranging from SGD 150 to SGD 500 or more. Some agencies include this within their placement package, while others list it separately.
Recurring / Monthly Costs
Once the helper is employed, families need to budget for recurring monthly expenses. These make up the long-term cost of hiring a maid and must be considered alongside the one-time fees.
- Monthly Salary
Salaries differ based on nationality, experience, and job scope. As of 2025, most helpers earn between SGD 480 and SGD 700 per month, with experienced helpers or those with strong language skills commanding more. - MOM Levy (Foreign Domestic Worker Levy)
The levy is a monthly fee imposed by MOM. For the first helper, the standard levy is SGD 300 per month. For subsequent helpers, it rises to SGD 450. Families caring for young children, elderly, or persons with disabilities may qualify for a concessionary rate of SGD 60 per month. - Biannual Medical Check-ups
Every helper must attend a medical check-up every six months. Basic checks cost around SGD 28 to SGD 35, while more comprehensive tests (such as HIV screening or chest X-rays) can cost SGD 60 to SGD 90. - Living Costs
Employers are responsible for providing food, accommodation, and daily essentials. While there is no fixed figure, most families should budget an additional SGD 200–300 per month depending on the household’s lifestyle and dietary arrangements.
This breakdown gives prospective employers a realistic picture of what “maid agency fees” comprises — not just the agency’s cut, but all the legal and administrative costs bundled around hiring a helper.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Hiring a Maid
Understanding the cost of hiring a maid goes beyond looking at a single agency’s placement fee. Several factors can influence what families end up paying, both at the start and throughout the employment period. By considering these variables, you can evaluate which maid agency fees are reasonable and which agencies offer genuine value.
1. Country of Origin
The helper’s nationality is one of the biggest factors affecting overall costs. For example:
- Helpers from the Philippines usually have slightly higher minimum salary requirements, often starting around SGD 600–700 per month.
- Helpers from Indonesia or Myanmar may start lower, typically in the SGD 500–600 range.
- Airfare also varies depending on the country of origin, which contributes to upfront maid agency fees.
Agencies should be transparent about these variations so families can make informed choices.
2. Experience and Training
Although helpers are officially classified as unskilled workers under MOM, their experience can still influence pricing.
- A helper who has worked in Singapore previously may command a higher salary than a first-timer.
- Helpers with childcare or elderly care experience are often preferred, and agencies may charge more for matching them due to higher demand.
When comparing the cost of hiring a maid, families should balance the higher salary against the benefit of having a helper who adapts more quickly.
3. Type of Duties
The scope of duties also affects agency charges. A helper hired solely for general housekeeping may be matched more quickly, while those intended to support with childcare or elderly assistance may involve additional screening. Agencies that take time to ensure the helper’s background aligns with the employer’s household needs often build these costs into their maid agency fees.
4. Duration and Renewal of Contract
Contracts for domestic helpers in Singapore typically run for two years. When a contract ends earlier than expected, employers may face extra administrative costs, such as paperwork, insurance adjustments, and MOM processing fees. Frequent transfers or short-term arrangements can therefore increase overall household expenses.
The best way to avoid these additional charges is to choose a helper who is well-suited to your family’s lifestyle from the start. A strong initial match helps ensure stability and keeps long-term costs predictable.
5. Agency Reputation and Support Level
Not all agencies provide the same standard of service. A reputable maid recruitment agency with MOM licensing, digital processes, and post-deployment support may charge slightly higher fees. However, this often reduces hidden costs over time. For example, a reliable agency may help you avoid repeated transfers, unclear insurance arrangements, or incomplete documentation that can cause problems later.
In contrast, choosing an agency based only on low upfront costs may lead to higher long-term expenses if the support provided is limited. For families seeking an affordable maid agency, value should be measured by transparency and service quality, not just the cheapest rate.
Why Families Trust Master Maid Agency
Selecting a maid agency in Singapore should not only be about finding the lowest price — it should be about securing value, transparency, and peace of mind. At Master Maid Agency, we make sure families understand exactly what they are paying for. Our approach keeps costs clear and predictable while providing full support throughout the process.
MOM Licensed Maid Agency in Singapore
As a MOM licensed maid agency, Master Maid Agency ensures that all recruitment processes are compliant with government regulations. This protects families from unnecessary penalties or unexpected charges. With licensing in place, every cost is legitimate and clearly explained. Employers can be confident that fees are transparent and fully aligned with MOM’s requirements, safeguarding both their household and their investment.
Over 20 Years of Experience in Maid Services
For more than two decades, Master Maid Agency has supported families across Singapore with reliable household help. This long experience means we understand not only how to source the right helpers but also how to explain and manage maid agency fees clearly. Families benefit from our knowledge of industry standards, so there are no surprises in the overall cost of hiring a maid. Working with an affordable maid agency that has a proven track record ensures you get both value and peace of mind.
Lowest Transfer Rate in Singapore
Frequent transfers can drive up the cost of hiring a maid, as every change may involve fresh paperwork, new insurance, and additional maid agency fees. At Master Maid Agency, our careful matching process ensures that families are paired with helpers who are most suitable for their household. This results in one of the lowest transfer rates among maid agency Singapore providers. By reducing unnecessary changes, we keep your costs lower and your household stable.
Dedicated Personal Relationship Managers (PRMs)
For many families, the hiring process can feel complicated, especially when it comes to paperwork and understanding the different costs involved. To make this smoother, Master Maid Agency assigns every client a dedicated Personal Relationship Manager (PRM).
Your PRM will guide you through each stage — from clarifying fee structures to handling MOM requirements — and provide ongoing support after deployment. This personalised approach ensures that families always have clear guidance, with no confusion over payments or procedures. With a PRM by your side, the entire hiring journey becomes more transparent, predictable, and stress-free.
Fully Digitalised Process at the Comfort of Your Home
Master Maid Agency has transformed the hiring journey with a digital-first approach. Families no longer need to spend time travelling to an office to review profiles or sign contracts. Instead, everything can be done online — from interviews to paperwork. This convenience helps employers save time and money while keeping maid agency fees fully transparent. For modern families searching for an affordable maid agency, this seamless process is a practical and cost-effective solution.
Hundreds of Helpers to Choose From — But Only the Right Ones Sent to You
Many agencies present families with overwhelming lists of candidates, making the selection process confusing and time-consuming. At Master Maid Agency, we focus on quality rather than quantity. With access to hundreds of carefully screened profiles, we shortlist only the helpers who genuinely match your household’s needs.
This curated approach prevents mismatches that can lead to unnecessary transfers and additional expenses. By sending you only the most suitable options, we help you save both time and money while keeping the hiring process straightforward.
$0 Upfront Service Fees
Many agencies in Singapore require payment before they begin shortlisting. At Master Maid Agency, we charge $0 upfront service fees. Families only pay once they are satisfied with their chosen helper. This policy reflects our position as an affordable maid agency and gives employers confidence that their money is only spent once real results are delivered. It also lowers the immediate cost of hiring a maid, making the process more accessible.
Unlimited Maid Replacements (Terms Apply)
Even with careful matching, situations may arise where a helper is not the right fit. To give families added assurance, Master Maid Agency provides unlimited replacements within the agreed policy period.
If the helper has completed at least six months and the request is made within nine months of the first placement, we arrange for a replacement without charging a fresh agency fee. While third-party costs such as insurance or medical checks still apply, our replacement policy ensures families do not face repeated agency charges. This provides peace of mind and greater control over long-term household expenses.
Hire Your Maid with Confidence Today at Master Maid Agency
Hiring a domestic helper is not just about finding someone to manage household chores — it is about building trust with a partner who will support your family daily. By keeping maid agency fees transparent, simplifying paperwork, and offering dedicated guidance, Master Maid Agency provides a service designed around your needs.
Contact Master Maid Agency today and let us make the cost of hiring a maid clear, fair, and stress-free.
