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Published on 3 Jul 2025 by Yan V.
Hiring a foreign domestic worker (FDW) can be life-changing, but with so much information floating around, it’s easy to get confused or worse, misled. Many first-time employers fall for common myths that lead to wrong decisions, non-compliance with MOM rules, or even strained relationships with helpers.
Let’s bust some of these myths wide open and set the record straight with real facts.
Myth 1: “Hiring a maid is only for the wealthy.”
Reality: Not true! While hiring a maid does involve costs like salary, maid insurance, and the monthly maid levy, there are affordable options for many households.
- You can find cost-effective plans like DBS maid insurance or Insurance Market.
- If you meet certain criteria (young children, elderly parents, etc.), you can qualify for the concessionary levy rate of $60/month.
- Platforms like Ministry of Helpers offer debt-free hiring with no placement fees, making it accessible for the average family.
Myth 2: “You can’t get a levy waiver unless your helper quits.”
Reality: Actually, you can apply for levy waiver for a foreign domestic worker in several situations — including when your helper goes on home leave for 7 or more days, is hospitalised, or if her Work Permit is temporarily suspended.
You can even check and pay levy or apply for a waiver online — no guesswork needed.
Myth 3: “All maid agencies are the same.”
Reality: The quality of service varies widely between agencies. Before choosing one, always check the Ministry of Manpower maid agency rating and confirm they are CEI certified (Certificate of Employment Intermediaries).
Myth 4: “Indonesian maids are always cheaper.”
Reality: Not necessarily. While some employers assume an Indonesian maid in Singapore comes with lower costs, salary expectations depend on experience, skills, and demand.
Always look at the full picture — including maid insurance in Singapore, levy payments, and any agency or service fees.
Myth 5: “My helper can work 7 days a week.”
Reality: Helpers are entitled to one rest day per week under MOM regulations. If your helper agrees to work on a rest day, you must provide compensation.
Wondering about domestic helper off day timing or rest day arrangements? Ministry of Helpers has tools and guides to help employers stay compliant and respectful.
Myth 6: “Only new maids are reliable.”
Reality: Many experienced transfer maids in Singapore have already adjusted to local culture and expectations — often making onboarding smoother than with first-time helpers.
You can also explore temporary helper options if you only need short-term help during maternity leave, travel, or holidays.
Misinformation leads to frustration, for both employers and helpers. By separating myth from fact, you can make better decisions, stay compliant, and build a respectful, long-lasting relationship with your domestic helper.
You might be interested in:
Hiring a Helper Before the School Term Starts? Here’s What to Know
Understanding Maid Agencies in Singapore: Fees, Rules, and Smarter Hiring Options
Smart Home, Smart Help: How Tech Can Support Your Helper at Work
Agency Red Flags: What to Watch Out for When Hiring a Helper in Singapore
Celebrating Milestones: How to Honour Your Helper’s Work Anniversary
Hiring a foreign domestic worker (FDW) can be life-changing, but with so much information floating around, it’s easy to get confused or worse, misled. Many first-time employers fall for common myths that lead to wrong decisions, non-compliance with MOM rules, or even strained relationships with helpers.
Let’s bust some of these myths wide open and set the record straight with real facts.
Myth 1: “Hiring a maid is only for the wealthy.”
Reality: Not true! While hiring a maid does involve costs like salary, maid insurance, and the monthly maid levy, there are affordable options for many households.
- You can find cost-effective plans like DBS maid insurance or Insurance Market.
- If you meet certain criteria (young children, elderly parents, etc.), you can qualify for the concessionary levy rate of $60/month.
- Platforms like Ministry of Helpers offer debt-free hiring with no placement fees, making it accessible for the average family.
Myth 2: “You can’t get a levy waiver unless your helper quits.”
Reality: Actually, you can apply for levy waiver for a foreign domestic worker in several situations — including when your helper goes on home leave for 7 or more days, is hospitalised, or if her Work Permit is temporarily suspended.
You can even check and pay levy or apply for a waiver online — no guesswork needed.
Myth 3: “All maid agencies are the same.”
Reality: The quality of service varies widely between agencies. Before choosing one, always check the Ministry of Manpower maid agency rating and confirm they are CEI certified (Certificate of Employment Intermediaries).
Myth 4: “Indonesian maids are always cheaper.”
Reality: Not necessarily. While some employers assume an Indonesian maid in Singapore comes with lower costs, salary expectations depend on experience, skills, and demand.
Always look at the full picture — including maid insurance in Singapore, levy payments, and any agency or service fees.
Myth 5: “My helper can work 7 days a week.”
Reality: Helpers are entitled to one rest day per week under MOM regulations. If your helper agrees to work on a rest day, you must provide compensation.
Wondering about domestic helper off day timing or rest day arrangements? Ministry of Helpers has tools and guides to help employers stay compliant and respectful.
Myth 6: “Only new maids are reliable.”
Reality: Many experienced transfer maids in Singapore have already adjusted to local culture and expectations — often making onboarding smoother than with first-time helpers.
You can also explore temporary helper options if you only need short-term help during maternity leave, travel, or holidays.
Misinformation leads to frustration, for both employers and helpers. By separating myth from fact, you can make better decisions, stay compliant, and build a respectful, long-lasting relationship with your domestic helper.
You might be interested in:
Hiring a Helper Before the School Term Starts? Here’s What to Know
Understanding Maid Agencies in Singapore: Fees, Rules, and Smarter Hiring Options
Smart Home, Smart Help: How Tech Can Support Your Helper at Work
Agency Red Flags: What to Watch Out for When Hiring a Helper in Singapore
Celebrating Milestones: How to Honour Your Helper’s Work Anniversary