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Published on 18 Jul 2025 by Win S.
In Singapore, hiring a maid through a transfer process can be a great option for many households. It allows families to hire someone who already has experience working in the country, while domestic helpers can continue working without going home and starting from scratch. However, one question that often comes up is: What is a maid transfer fee, and who pays for it?
What is a maid transfer?
A maid transfer happens when a domestic helper currently working in Singapore moves to a new employer before her existing contract ends or immediately after it ends. This process is often faster and more convenient than hiring someone directly from overseas, as the helper is already in Singapore and familiar with local routines, expectations, and environments.
What is a maid transfer fee?
A maid transfer fee is a service charge imposed by traditional maid agencies for helping employers find and process a domestic helper who is transferring from another employer.
This fee typically covers:
- Admin and documentation
- Work permit application and cancellation
- Arranging interviews and matching services
- Optional add-ons like medical check-ups, training, or insurance setup
The amount varies widely, but it can range from $500 to $3,000, depending on the agency and the helper’s experience.
Who pays the transfer fee?
In most cases, employers pay the transfer fee. However, there are situations where the fee is split, or deducted from the helper’s salary over time, which raises concerns about fairness and financial burden.
The problem with transfer fees
For helpers, especially those already in Singapore, transfer fees can become a financial trap if they are asked to pay upfront or via salary deductions. Some helpers may feel pressured to accept unfair terms just to stay employed.
For employers, hidden or unclear costs from traditional agencies can lead to frustration or misunderstandings, especially if the helper later resigns or the match doesn’t work out.
Maid transfer fees are an important cost to understand when hiring in Singapore, but they shouldn’t be a burden. Whether you’re a helper or an employer, transparency and fairness should always come first.
At Ministry of Helpers, we believe in building better homes with trust, support, and a system that works for everyone.
You might be interested in:
Guide to Renew Your Helper’s Work Permit in 2025
The Truth About “Cheap Maid Agencies” in Singapore: What You’re Really Paying For
Countries Where You Can Find Great Domestic Helpers
The Importance of Sending Money Home Wisely: A Guide for Helpers
A Guide to Managing Your Migrant Domestic Worker’s Mobile Phone Use Responsibly
In Singapore, hiring a maid through a transfer process can be a great option for many households. It allows families to hire someone who already has experience working in the country, while domestic helpers can continue working without going home and starting from scratch. However, one question that often comes up is: What is a maid transfer fee, and who pays for it?
What is a maid transfer?
A maid transfer happens when a domestic helper currently working in Singapore moves to a new employer before her existing contract ends or immediately after it ends. This process is often faster and more convenient than hiring someone directly from overseas, as the helper is already in Singapore and familiar with local routines, expectations, and environments.
What is a maid transfer fee?
A maid transfer fee is a service charge imposed by traditional maid agencies for helping employers find and process a domestic helper who is transferring from another employer.
This fee typically covers:
- Admin and documentation
- Work permit application and cancellation
- Arranging interviews and matching services
- Optional add-ons like medical check-ups, training, or insurance setup
The amount varies widely, but it can range from $500 to $3,000, depending on the agency and the helper’s experience.
Who pays the transfer fee?
In most cases, employers pay the transfer fee. However, there are situations where the fee is split, or deducted from the helper’s salary over time, which raises concerns about fairness and financial burden.
The problem with transfer fees
For helpers, especially those already in Singapore, transfer fees can become a financial trap if they are asked to pay upfront or via salary deductions. Some helpers may feel pressured to accept unfair terms just to stay employed.
For employers, hidden or unclear costs from traditional agencies can lead to frustration or misunderstandings, especially if the helper later resigns or the match doesn’t work out.
Maid transfer fees are an important cost to understand when hiring in Singapore, but they shouldn’t be a burden. Whether you’re a helper or an employer, transparency and fairness should always come first.
At Ministry of Helpers, we believe in building better homes with trust, support, and a system that works for everyone.
You might be interested in:
Guide to Renew Your Helper’s Work Permit in 2025
The Truth About “Cheap Maid Agencies” in Singapore: What You’re Really Paying For
Countries Where You Can Find Great Domestic Helpers
The Importance of Sending Money Home Wisely: A Guide for Helpers
A Guide to Managing Your Migrant Domestic Worker’s Mobile Phone Use Responsibly