Hiring a domestic helper is a significant decision for any Singapore household. Yet many first-time employers find themselves caught off guard by the true cost involved. Understanding maid agency fees before you commit helps you plan realistically and avoid financial surprises. Whether you are searching for a “maid agency near me” or comparing options across Singapore, these fees typically range from $1,000 to $3,000 depending on the agency and services included.
Beyond the agency fee for a domestic helper, employers must account for government levies, insurance, work permits, and ongoing living expenses. This guide breaks down every cost you should expect, from one-time expenses to monthly obligations, so you can budget with confidence and make informed decisions for your family.
Key Takeaways
- Maid agency fees in Singapore range from $1,000 to $3,000, covering recruitment, documentation, and placement services
- Total upfront costs for hiring through a domestic maid agency typically fall between $1,600 and $3,500
- Monthly recurring expenses including salary, levy, and living costs average $1,000 to $1,400
- Employers may qualify for levy concessions, reducing the monthly levy from $300 to just $60
- Choosing a transfer maid can lower initial costs as airfare and settling-in programmes are not required
- Working with an affordable maid agency that offers transparent pricing prevents unexpected charges
What Maid Agency Fees Actually Cover
When you engage an agency for a domestic helper, you are paying for a range of services that simplify the hiring process. Here is what your maid agency fees typically include.
1. Recruitment and Candidate Screening
A reputable domestic maid agency sources candidates from trusted overseas partners or identifies suitable transfer maids already working in Singapore. This involves verifying backgrounds, checking references, arranging video interviews, and shortlisting helpers who match your household requirements. Good agencies invest significant time in this process to ensure you receive only qualified candidates worth considering.
2. Documentation and Work Permit Processing
Your agency handles the administrative burden of work permit applications. This includes submitting forms to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), ensuring compliance with employment regulations, and managing the issuance of permits. The agency also coordinates with overseas embassies where required and ensures all paperwork meets Singapore’s legal standards.
3. Pre-Arrival Arrangements
Before your helper arrives, the agency coordinates medical examinations, insurance coverage, and the mandatory Settling-In Programme for first-time helpers. They also arrange flights and temporary accommodation where necessary.
Full Cost Breakdown When Hiring a Domestic Helper
Planning your budget requires understanding both one-time and recurring expenses. The table below summarises what employers should expect when reviewing maid agency fees and related costs.
| Cost Category | Amount (SGD) | Frequency |
| Agency fee for domestic helper | $1,000–$3,000 | One-time |
| Work permit (application + issuance) | $70 | One-time |
| Settling-In Programme | $76.40 | One-time (first-time helpers) |
| Security bond (via insurance) | $250–$5,000 | One-time |
| Maid insurance (26 months) | $486–$750 | Per contract |
| Monthly salary | $450–$700 | Monthly |
| Maid levy | $60–$300 | Monthly |
| Living expenses | $250–$300 | Monthly |
One-Time Upfront Costs Explained
The largest portion of your initial outlay goes towards maid agency fees. This covers everything from sourcing your helper to finalising her work permit. Different agencies offer varying service levels, so always request a detailed breakdown before committing.
Work permit fees are fixed at $35 for application and $35 upon issuance, totalling $70. If your helper is new to Singapore, she must complete the Settling-In Programme at $76.40, which orientates her to local expectations, workplace safety, and her rights as an employee.
You must also purchase a security bond of $5,000 for non-Malaysian helpers. This bond guarantees compliance with work permit conditions. Most agencies offer insurance packages that limit your liability to around $250, bundled with medical and personal accident coverage required by MOM.
Monthly Recurring Expenses to Budget For
Your helper’s salary forms the bulk of monthly costs. Salaries vary by nationality and experience, with Indonesian and Filipino helpers typically earning between $550 and $700 monthly. Experienced transfer maids may command $800 to $1,000 due to their familiarity with Singapore households and immediate availability.
The maid levy is a government-mandated monthly fee paid to MOM. The standard rate is $300 for your first helper and $450 for subsequent helpers. However, if you live with a Singaporean child under 16, an elderly family member aged 67 or above, or a person with disabilities, you may qualify for the concessionary rate of just $60. This concession can save you $2,880 annually.
Living expenses cover food, transport, toiletries, mobile phone credit, and a share of household utilities. Budget approximately $250 to $300 monthly for these essentials. Your helper deserves the same quality of meals as your family members.
Costs That First-Time Employers Often Overlook
Beyond the obvious expenses like maid agency fees, several costs catch new employers by surprise.
Rest Day Compensation
Helpers are entitled to one rest day per week under MOM regulations. If your helper agrees to work on her rest day, you must compensate her with at least one day’s salary. For a helper earning $600 monthly, each additional day worked costs approximately $23. Note that at least one rest day per month cannot be compensated away—your helper must take this day off regardless of workload.
Six-Monthly Medical Examinations
MOM requires all helpers to undergo medical check-ups every six months. Each examination costs between $35 and $60, totalling $70 to $120 annually.
Home Leave and Repatriation Costs
When your helper’s contract ends or if she needs to return home for any reason, you are responsible for her one-way airfare. Depending on her home country, this ranges from $200 to $500. Some nationalities also require embassy clearances with associated fees. If employment terminates early, you may still need to cover these costs, so factor this into your contingency planning.
Emergency Expenses
Medical emergencies exceeding your insurance coverage fall on you as the employer. Setting aside a contingency fund of $500 to $1,000 is prudent.
How to Reduce Hiring Costs Without Compromising Quality
Budget-conscious employers can take practical steps to manage expenses without sacrificing the quality of help they receive. Here is how to keep maid agency fees and overall costs manageable.
- Consider a transfer maid. Helpers already working in Singapore do not require airfare, the Settling-In Programme, or extensive orientation. This reduces upfront costs significantly while giving you access to experienced candidates who understand local expectations.
- Check your levy concession eligibility. Qualifying for the $60 concessionary rate instead of $300 saves $2,880 annually. Ensure your agency updates your household information during the work permit application so the concession applies from day one.
- Choose transparent agencies. Work with a maid agency near that provides clear pricing with no hidden charges. An affordable maid agency offering $0 upfront service fees allows you to interview candidates before committing financially, reducing your risk.
- Ask about replacement policies. Some agencies offer unlimited replacements within a specified period, protecting you from repeat agency fees for domestic helpers if the initial match does not work out. This safety net provides long-term value.
Why Families Trust Master Maid Agency for Transparent Maid Agency Fees
With over two decades of service, Master Maid Agency has earned its reputation as one of the most trusted names in Singapore’s domestic helper industry. Families choose us because we prioritise clarity, compliance, and genuine care at every step.
MOM-Licensed Maid Agency in Singapore
As a MOM-licensed domestic maid agency in Singapore, we ensure every placement meets the Ministry of Manpower’s requirements. All documentation, contracts, and employment terms follow national standards, giving employers complete peace of mind.
Over 20 Years of Experience in Domestic Helper Placements
Experience matters when matching helpers to households. Our team understands Singapore families deeply—whether you need support with housekeeping, cooking, childcare, or general domestic duties. With two decades of placements behind us, we have refined our processes to deliver better matches and smoother transitions for both employers and helpers.
One of the Lowest Transfer Rates in Singapore
A low transfer rate reflects successful placements and satisfied employers. Our thorough screening and matching process ensures compatibility from day one. When helpers and employers are well-matched, working relationships last longer—saving you the stress and cost of finding replacements.
Dedicated Personal Relationship Managers
Every family works with a Personal Relationship Manager who provides end-to-end support. From initial consultation through onboarding and follow-up, you have one reliable contact for all questions and guidance.
Fully Digitalised Process for Maximum Convenience
Our digital system allows you to review profiles, conduct interviews, and complete paperwork online. There is no need for multiple office visits. Every step happens securely from your home.
Large Database with Quality-Focused Shortlisting
We partner with over 50 trusted overseas agencies, giving us access to hundreds of candidates. Rather than overwhelming you with profiles, we shortlist only the most suitable helpers based on your specific requirements.
$0 Upfront Service Fees
You pay nothing until you are satisfied with the interviews and confirm your chosen helper. Our Core Matching Team begins shortlisting immediately, sharing candidate summaries for your review before any payment is required. This affordable maid agency approach reflects our commitment to transparency.
Unlimited Replacements Within Nine Months
If the fit is not right after your helper has worked at least six months, we offer unlimited replacements within nine months at no additional agency fee for a domestic helper. Only third-party costs such as insurance or transport apply.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maid Agency Fees in Singapore
How much does it cost to hire a maid through an agency in Singapore?
Maid agency fees typically range from $1,000 to $3,000. This covers recruitment, screening, work permit processing, medical examinations, insurance coordination, and placement services. Total upfront costs including permits and insurance generally fall between $1,600 and $3,500. When searching for a “maid agency near me,” always request a full cost breakdown upfront.
What is the monthly levy for hiring a domestic helper in Singapore?
The standard levy is $300 per month for your first helper and $450 for additional helpers. Families living with a Singaporean child under 16, an elderly member aged 67 or above, or a person with disabilities may qualify for the concessionary rate of $60 monthly.
Are there hidden fees when hiring a helper through a maid agency?
Common overlooked costs include rest day compensation, six-monthly medical examinations, home leave airfare, and emergency medical expenses. Choosing an affordable maid agency with transparent pricing and clear contracts helps you avoid surprises. Always ask for a complete cost breakdown before signing.
How do I apply for the maid levy concession in Singapore?
You can apply for the maid levy concession through the Ministry of Manpower’s Work Permit Online system. Eligible households include those with a Singaporean child under 16, an elderly family member aged 67 or above, or a person with disabilities living at the same address. The concessionary rate reduces your monthly levy from $300 to $60, saving $2,880 annually. Your MOM-licensed domestic maid agency in Singapore can assist with submitting the necessary documentation during the work permit application to ensure the concession applies from day one.
Can I pay maid agency fees in instalments in Singapore?
Payment terms vary between agencies. Some domestic maid agencies in Singapore offer instalment plans for the agency fee, while others require full payment upon confirmation of your helper. At Master Maid Agency, we charge $0 upfront service fees, allowing you to interview candidates and confirm your choice before any payment is required. Always clarify payment terms when comparing maid agency fees to find an affordable maid agency that suits your budget and offers transparent pricing without hidden charges.
Start Planning Your Helper Hiring Budget Today
Hiring the right domestic helper should not be stressful or confusing. At Master Maid Agency, we believe in complete transparency—so you know exactly what to expect before you commit.
- Address: 170 Upper Bukit Timah Road #03-71, Bukit Timah Shopping Centre, Singapore 588179
- Website: masteremploymentagency.com
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