Key facts on Work Permit for MDW

Get an overview and key facts about the Work Permit for a migrant domestic worker (MDW).

Pass facts

Who it is for	Foreigners employed as domestic helpers in Singapore. Both employers and helpers must meet the eligibility criteria.
Who can apply	Employer, sponsor or authorised employment agent needs to apply for the Work Permit.
Qualifying salary	No minimum required.
What is the duration	Up to 2 years, depending on the validity of the security bond.
Is it renewable	Yes. Find out how to renew.
Foreign worker levy	Yes. Employers must pay a monthly levy.
Medical insurance	Employers must provide medical and personal accident insurance.
Relevant legislation	Conditions of Work Pass Employment of Foreign Manpower Act
Related eServices and forms	Access online services and forms for helpers.

Get an idea of what you need to do before, during and after you apply for a Work Permit.

Step 1 of 5

Before applying

Step 2 of 5

Before arrival

Apply for Work Permit
- Know the eligibility to apply under the Joint-Income or Sponsorship schemes.
  
  Lower-income employers or senior citizens may be eligible
- Apply for the Work Permit. Once approved, you will get an in-principle approval to bring the MDW into Singapore.
Prepare for MDW's arrival
- Ensure that the MDW complies with the latest travel requirements.
- Buy a security bond.
  
  For non-Malaysian MDW
- Buy medical and personal accident insurance for the MDW and submit the insurance details online.
- Register the MDW for the Settling-in Programme (SIP) once you know their arrival date.
  
  For first-time MDWs

Step 3 of 5

Upon arrival

Before permit can be issued
- Send the MDW to attend the SIP within 7 days of their arrival in Singapore, excluding Sunday and public holidays.
  
  For first-time MDWs
- Send the MDW for a medical examination by a Singapore-registered doctor within 2 weeks of arrival.
Get the Work Permit issued
- When the worker arrives, you can get the permit issued and you will get a Temporary Work Permit stating whether registration is required.
- (If required) Make an appointment for the MDW to register their fingerprints and photo.
- Receive the Work Permit card at the address provided 5 working days after registration or document verification.

Step 4 of 5

Monthly

Step 5 of 5

When required

- Notify MOM if you or your MDW's information changes.
- You can apply for levy waiver in certain situations.
- Renew the Work Permit before it expires.
- Apply for a replacement if the permit card is lost, stolen or damaged.
- Cancel the permit if the MDW no longer works for you.