BLOG
Published on 5 May 2025 by Anna O.
Hiring a Filipino domestic helper can be a life-changing decision for families in Singapore. Filipino helpers are known for their strong work ethic, excellent English communication skills, and warm, family-oriented nature.
If you’re considering hiring one, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the process—from understanding legal requirements to welcoming your new helper into your home.
Why choose a Filipino helper?
Filipino helpers are among the most popular choices in Singapore for several reasons:
- Good command of English – making communication easier
- Strong cultural compatibility – due to shared values and a caring nature
- Extensive caregiving experience – especially in childcare and elderly care
- High literacy rate and trainability – many have college or vocational training backgrounds
Now, let’s dive into how you can hire a Filipino helper the right way.
Step-by-step guide to hiring a Filipino helper
Step 1: Determine your needs
Before starting the hiring process, clearly define what kind of help you need:
- Childcare, elderly care, or general household chores?
- Live-in or live-out arrangement?
- Language and personality preferences?
Having clear expectations helps you find the best match.
Step 2: Search for a suitable helper
You have two main options:
- Use the Ministry of Helpers platform – browse verified Filipino helper profiles, filter by experience, skillset, and availability.
- Hire a direct transfer helper – someone already in Singapore and seeking a new employer.
Tip: Use our built-in chat to communicate directly with potential helpers.
Step 3: Conduct interviews
Shortlist candidates and schedule interviews (video). Ask questions about:
- Past experience and duties
- Cooking and cleaning skills
- Comfort with children or elderly
- Preferred working style and routines
Our platform provides interview tips and templates to help you screen effectively.
Step 4: Check documents and eligibility
Make sure the helper:
- Has a valid passport with at least 6 months validity
- Is from the Philippines with proper employment clearance from POEA (Philippine Overseas Employment Administration)
- Meets MOM’s (Ministry of Manpower) eligibility criteria
Step 5: Employment process & MOM requirements
You can manage the process yourself or use our Concierge Service to handle everything for you.
Here’s what’s required:
- Apply for a Work Permit through MOM
- Purchase medical and personal accident insurance
- Send the helper for a medical examination
- Attend the Employer Orientation Programme (if this is your first time hiring a helper)
Step 6: Philippine Embassy requirements
If hiring a Filipino helper, you must comply with Philippine government regulations, including:
- A standard employment contract approved by the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO)
- Verification of the contract by the Philippine Embassy
- Processing of the Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC)
Note: If you use our Concierge Service, we handle these embassy steps for you.
Step 7: Arrange pre-employment training and settling-in
Once hired, helpers may need to:
- Attend the Settling-In Programme (SIP) required by MOM (for first-time helpers in Singapore)
- Undergo any preferred online training—Ministry of Helpers has partnered with StepUp to provide access to online courses tailored for domestic helpers
Step 8: Prepare your home
Before your helper arrives:
- Prepare a clean and private living space
- Set clear household rules and routines
- Discuss expectations openly, including day-offs, meals, and communication
Our platform includes a Household Scheduler to help you plan tasks and schedules together.
Step 9: First days & orientation
Welcome your helper warmly. During the first week:
- Go through daily routines together
- Demonstrate how appliances or equipment work
- Encourage open communication and feedback
Building trust and respect from the start leads to a stronger long-term relationship.
Hiring a Filipino helper is not just about getting household support—it’s about finding someone who will become part of your home. With the right preparation and support from Ministry of Helpers, the process can be smooth, rewarding, and life-enhancing for both you and your future helper.
You might be interested in:
Countries Where You Can Find Great Domestic Helpers
How to Hire and Manage Sri Lankan Helpers in Singapore
Why Burmese Helpers Are Winning Hearts Around the World
Understanding Rest Days and Time Off: What Employers Need to Know
The Importance of Sending Money Home Wisely: A Guide for Helpers
Hiring a Filipino domestic helper can be a life-changing decision for families in Singapore. Filipino helpers are known for their strong work ethic, excellent English communication skills, and warm, family-oriented nature.
If you’re considering hiring one, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the process—from understanding legal requirements to welcoming your new helper into your home.
Why choose a Filipino helper?
Filipino helpers are among the most popular choices in Singapore for several reasons:
- Good command of English – making communication easier
- Strong cultural compatibility – due to shared values and a caring nature
- Extensive caregiving experience – especially in childcare and elderly care
- High literacy rate and trainability – many have college or vocational training backgrounds
Now, let’s dive into how you can hire a Filipino helper the right way.
Step-by-step guide to hiring a Filipino helper
Step 1: Determine your needs
Before starting the hiring process, clearly define what kind of help you need:
- Childcare, elderly care, or general household chores?
- Live-in or live-out arrangement?
- Language and personality preferences?
Having clear expectations helps you find the best match.
Step 2: Search for a suitable helper
You have two main options:
- Use the Ministry of Helpers platform – browse verified Filipino helper profiles, filter by experience, skillset, and availability.
- Hire a direct transfer helper – someone already in Singapore and seeking a new employer.
Tip: Use our built-in chat to communicate directly with potential helpers.
Step 3: Conduct interviews
Shortlist candidates and schedule interviews (video). Ask questions about:
- Past experience and duties
- Cooking and cleaning skills
- Comfort with children or elderly
- Preferred working style and routines
Our platform provides interview tips and templates to help you screen effectively.
Step 4: Check documents and eligibility
Make sure the helper:
- Has a valid passport with at least 6 months validity
- Is from the Philippines with proper employment clearance from POEA (Philippine Overseas Employment Administration)
- Meets MOM’s (Ministry of Manpower) eligibility criteria
Step 5: Employment process & MOM requirements
You can manage the process yourself or use our Concierge Service to handle everything for you.
Here’s what’s required:
- Apply for a Work Permit through MOM
- Purchase medical and personal accident insurance
- Send the helper for a medical examination
- Attend the Employer Orientation Programme (if this is your first time hiring a helper)
Step 6: Philippine Embassy requirements
If hiring a Filipino helper, you must comply with Philippine government regulations, including:
- A standard employment contract approved by the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO)
- Verification of the contract by the Philippine Embassy
- Processing of the Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC)
Note: If you use our Concierge Service, we handle these embassy steps for you.
Step 7: Arrange pre-employment training and settling-in
Once hired, helpers may need to:
- Attend the Settling-In Programme (SIP) required by MOM (for first-time helpers in Singapore)
- Undergo any preferred online training—Ministry of Helpers has partnered with StepUp to provide access to online courses tailored for domestic helpers
Step 8: Prepare your home
Before your helper arrives:
- Prepare a clean and private living space
- Set clear household rules and routines
- Discuss expectations openly, including day-offs, meals, and communication
Our platform includes a Household Scheduler to help you plan tasks and schedules together.
Step 9: First days & orientation
Welcome your helper warmly. During the first week:
- Go through daily routines together
- Demonstrate how appliances or equipment work
- Encourage open communication and feedback
Building trust and respect from the start leads to a stronger long-term relationship.
Hiring a Filipino helper is not just about getting household support—it’s about finding someone who will become part of your home. With the right preparation and support from Ministry of Helpers, the process can be smooth, rewarding, and life-enhancing for both you and your future helper.
You might be interested in:
Countries Where You Can Find Great Domestic Helpers
How to Hire and Manage Sri Lankan Helpers in Singapore
Why Burmese Helpers Are Winning Hearts Around the World
Understanding Rest Days and Time Off: What Employers Need to Know
The Importance of Sending Money Home Wisely: A Guide for Helpers