Question 1

How much does it cost to hire a maid in Singapore?

Wendy Tan · Accepted Answer

The total cost to hire a maid in Singapore starts from approximately S$2,055. This includes agency fees from S$882, government fees of S$606 (work permit, security bond, settling-in programme), and insurance from S$566-730. Monthly ongoing costs include FDW levy (S$300 standard or S$60 concessionary), salary, and food/toiletries allowance.

Question 2

Why are maid agency fees different between agencies?

Wendy Tan · Accepted Answer

Agency fees vary based on the services included — screening quality, interview coordination, document processing, orientation programmes, and post-placement support. Cheaper agencies may cut corners on helper screening or provide minimal support. At Upwill, our fees from S$882 include thorough background checks, skills assessment, employer-helper matching, and 12 months of post-placement support.

Question 3

Is a transfer maid cheaper than hiring a new maid?

Wendy Tan · Accepted Answer

Yes, transfer maids are typically 30-50% cheaper overall. Agency fees for transfer maids start from S$600 compared to S$882 for new hires. You also save on the Settling-In Programme (S$75) since transfer helpers have already completed it, and placement is faster (1-3 weeks vs 4-8 weeks), reducing your waiting time.

Question 4

What are the monthly costs of employing a domestic helper?

Wendy Tan · Accepted Answer

Monthly costs include: FDW levy (S$300 standard rate or S$60 concessionary rate for eligible households), helper salary (typically S$550-700 depending on nationality and experience), food and toiletries (S$200-300/month or you can provide meals directly), and optional medical/dental expenses. Budget approximately S$1,050-1,300 per month in total.

Question 5

Are there any hidden costs when hiring a maid?

Wendy Tan · Accepted Answer

At Upwill, we believe in transparent pricing with no hidden charges. All costs are disclosed upfront before you commit. Some costs to be aware of include: annual insurance renewal, work permit renewal fees, six-monthly medical examination (6ME) costs, and home leave airfare. We provide a complete cost breakdown during consultation so there are no surprises.

Question 6

How do I qualify for the concessionary FDW levy rate?

Wendy Tan · Accepted Answer

You qualify for the concessionary levy rate of S$60/month (instead of S$300) if you have a child aged 16 or below, or a household member who is aged 67 or above, or has a disability. Only one FDW per household qualifies for the concessionary rate. If you employ a second FDW, the standard levy of S$300 applies.

Maid Hiring Cost Singapore 2025

Total Maid Hiring Cost

Cost Breakdown

Agency Service Fee

Government & Admin Fees

Insurance Cost

Helper Placement Fee

Payment Methods

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Ongoing Monthly Costs

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Related Cost Guides

Maid Levy Singapore 2026 — Rates & Waivers

Singapore Helper Salary 2026

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