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At a glance
- Busy employers may consider hiring helpers to lighten their load.
- Some may not be aware that there are alternatives to hiring helpers and that they have to be eligible to hire one.
- The eligibility criteria are clearly laid out including special exceptions.
Many families find themselves considering the option of hiring a migrant domestic worker (MDW) in today’s fast-paced Singapore. Having someone to take care of household duties and responsibilities allows one to focus on other priorities.
Yet, the first question to ask yourself is: “Do I really need an MDW?”
If you’re not quite ready for the responsibilities, consider alternatives such as home-based or stay-in care services like those listed at the Agency for Integrated Care website. Other options include:
- Home meal delivery such as ‘Tingkat’ services that deliver meals so you won’t have to cook them yourself.
- Vacuum robots, dishwashers and other appliances that can simplify your household chores.
- Part-time local cleaners or mobile apps that link you to home cleaners.
If your answer is a ‘yes, I am ready’, then you should know that MDWs should only work under an employer who can provide adequate supervision and care for their well-being. This is why employers must fulfill requirements, such as being at least 21 years old, not being an undischarged bankrupt.
More considerations
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) also considers other factors before letting you hire an MDW. These include:
- Care-giving needs for young children or elderly family members.
- Your financial ability to hire, maintain and upkeep the helper in an acceptable accommodation. MOM will consider your income if you're single, or the combined income of you and your spouse.
Can only individuals or couples hire helpers?
There are actually two other schemes that you can hire an MDW through.
Joint Income Scheme: You may combine your income with one other non-spouse relative who is staying with you.
Joint Sponsorship Scheme: MOM will assess eligibility based on the combined income of up to two sponsors, who will assume the responsibilities of an employer.
Let’s look at some examples
Sure, let’s look at some cases to better understand who qualifies.
Case 1
Mary is a 35-year-old working mother of two. She finds it hard to balance her full-time job with the demands of taking care of her children and decides to hire an MDW.
Mary is likely eligible. She has caregiving needs and financial ability to hire, maintain and upkeep the helper.
Case 2
Mr. Tan is a 70-year-old retiree with difficulty walking. He lives alone and finds it difficult to manage his daily activities. He decides to hire an MDW to help him with household chores and personal care.
Mr. Tan is not eligible since he has no income. However, his children or grandchildren may apply as joint sponsors under the Joint Sponsorship Scheme.
Great, I’m eligible - but I’ve never hired an MDW before…
You’re certainly not alone. To help you understand your responsibilities, you must attend the three-hour Employer Orientation Programme (EOP), which educates you on:
- Your rights and responsibilities as an employer.
- Tips for managing your MDW.
- Obligations like providing adequate food, accommodation, medical care, rest and a safe, healthy environment.
Conclusion
In essence, hiring an MDW goes beyond just meeting the criteria. It’s also about being responsible to care for her well-being. Keeping this in mind can help you make an informed decision about whether to hire an MDW.