How to Hire a Helper in Singapore: A Step-by-Step Guide for First-Time Employers
There comes a moment in many Singaporean households when you realize you need a little help. Not just someone to tidy the edges, but a steady presence to help keep things running—especially if you have young children, elderly parents, or a demanding job. That’s when hiring a domestic helper becomes part of the conversation.
But if you’ve never done it before, the process can feel confusing, even overwhelming. This guide will gently walk you through the steps of hiring a helper in Singapore, answering the questions you didn’t know you had, and maybe even making the whole thing feel a little less daunting.
Step 1: Decide What Kind of Help You Need
Start with a cup of tea and an honest conversation—what do you really need help with?
- Childcare?
- Elderly care?
- Housekeeping and cooking?
Each household has its own rhythm and needs, and knowing yours helps determine the kind of helper you should look for.
Tip: Write down a list of daily and weekly tasks. This will come in handy later when matching with the right candidate.
Step 2: Choose Between Direct Hiring or an Agency
In Singapore, you can either:
- Hire through a licensed employment agency, or
- Use direct hiring if you already have a candidate in mind.
Employment Agency:
Agencies handle everything from paperwork to sourcing and training. They charge a fee but offer convenience and support.
Direct Hiring:
If you know someone (a referral or a former maid returning), you can hire them directly, but you'll need to manage the documentation with MOM (Ministry of Manpower) yourself.
Step 3: Understand the Legal Requirements
In Singapore, you must:
- Be 21 years old or above
- Not be an undischarged bankrupt
- Have the financial means to hire and support a helper
You’ll need to apply for a Work Permit through MOM and complete the Employers' Orientation Programme (EOP) if you're a first-time employer.
Step 4: Interview Candidates
Whether through an agency or referrals, interview your candidates thoughtfully. Consider their:
- Experience with similar households
- Communication skills
- Comfort with children or elderly
- Cooking or cleaning strengths
It’s not just about skills—it’s about fit. You’ll be sharing your home with this person.
Step 5: Prepare Your Home and Contract
You’ll need to provide:
- A private space or sleeping area
- Weekly rest days
- Adequate meals and medical care
- A written employment contract
The standard contract includes salary, rest days, duties, and notice period. Clarity now avoids confusion later.
Step 6: Build a System That Works—for Everyone
Once your helper arrives, life might feel easier, but it still needs structure. That’s where communication and task management come in.
We know from experience that one of the biggest stress points for both employer and helper is missed expectations. You might say it once, even twice, but things can still slip through.
This is where HelperTask can truly make a difference. It's a simple app designed just for households like yours, where you can set clear, recurring tasks, write step-by-step instructions—all in one place. It removes the need for constant reminders, and helps your helper stay confident and on track every day.
Step 7: Maintain a Good Working Relationship
Like any relationship, it takes empathy and communication. Check in regularly. Show appreciation. Be clear, but also kind. Helpers are people, too—far from home, doing their best in yours.
Final Thoughts
Hiring a domestic helper in Singapore is more than a practical decision—it’s a shared journey. With the right planning, mutual respect, and tools to support the relationship, it can be one of the most helpful and human partnerships in your daily life.
So take a breath. You’ve got this. And if you ever feel like you're saying the same thing again and again, well—there’s an app for that.