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Published on 1 Apr 2025 by Win S.
When hiring a domestic helper in Singapore, one of the key responsibilities as an employer is ensuring compliance with rest day regulations and respecting your helper’s right to time off.
A well-rested and happy helper is more productive, motivated, and able to perform her duties effectively. This guide will help employers understand the legal requirements and best practices for managing rest days and time off for their domestic helpers.
Legal requirements for rest days
Under Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM) regulations, all foreign domestic workers (FDWs) are entitled to at least one rest day per week. This rule is in place to safeguard the well-being of helpers, allowing them to recuperate and enjoy personal time.
Employers must adhere to the following:
- Mandatory weekly rest day: From 1 January 2023, all FDWs must have at least one rest day each month that cannot be compensated with extra pay. This ensures that helpers receive adequate rest.
- Compensation for working on rest days: If a helper agrees to work on her rest day (excluding the mandatory one per month), the employer must compensate her with either:
- At least one day’s salary, or
- A replacement rest day within the same month.
- Scheduling rest days: Employers and helpers should mutually agree on which day of the week the rest day will fall.
Why rest days matter
Beyond fulfilling legal requirements, providing proper rest days and time off is crucial for your helper’s physical and mental well-being. Key benefits include:
- Improved work performance: A well-rested helper is more attentive, energetic, and efficient in carrying out daily tasks.
- Mental and emotional well-being: Having time to socialise, engage in personal activities, or simply relax helps prevent burnout and stress.
- Stronger employer-helper relationship: Respecting your helper’s rights fosters a positive work environment and mutual trust.
Managing rest days and time off effectively
Here are some best practices for ensuring a smooth and fair arrangement:
- Discuss and agree on rest days early: When hiring a helper, clarify expectations regarding rest days and time off during the initial agreement.
- Respect personal time: Avoid contacting your helper about work-related matters on her rest day unless there is an emergency.
- Encourage safe outings: While helpers have the right to spend their rest day as they wish, encourage them to stay in touch and be aware of their surroundings for safety reasons.
- Be flexible when needed: If your helper needs to adjust her rest day for personal reasons, try to accommodate her request whenever possible.
Public holidays and leave considerations
Domestic helpers in Singapore are not automatically entitled to public holidays. However, employers can grant time off or provide compensation at their discretion. Similarly, annual leave and sick leave policies should be clearly discussed and agreed upon.
You might be interested in:
Why Helpers Should Take Online Training Courses
Dos and Don'ts of Hiring and Managing an Indian Helper
The Importance of Sending Money Home Wisely: A Guide for Helpers
Can I Deduct Costs from My Helper’s Salary? Employer Do’s and Don’ts
2025 Guide for Employers: Hiring and Managing a Domestic Helper in Singapore
When hiring a domestic helper in Singapore, one of the key responsibilities as an employer is ensuring compliance with rest day regulations and respecting your helper’s right to time off.
A well-rested and happy helper is more productive, motivated, and able to perform her duties effectively. This guide will help employers understand the legal requirements and best practices for managing rest days and time off for their domestic helpers.
Legal requirements for rest days
Under Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM) regulations, all foreign domestic workers (FDWs) are entitled to at least one rest day per week. This rule is in place to safeguard the well-being of helpers, allowing them to recuperate and enjoy personal time.
Employers must adhere to the following:
- Mandatory weekly rest day: From 1 January 2023, all FDWs must have at least one rest day each month that cannot be compensated with extra pay. This ensures that helpers receive adequate rest.
- Compensation for working on rest days: If a helper agrees to work on her rest day (excluding the mandatory one per month), the employer must compensate her with either:
- At least one day’s salary, or
- A replacement rest day within the same month.
- Scheduling rest days: Employers and helpers should mutually agree on which day of the week the rest day will fall.
Why rest days matter
Beyond fulfilling legal requirements, providing proper rest days and time off is crucial for your helper’s physical and mental well-being. Key benefits include:
- Improved work performance: A well-rested helper is more attentive, energetic, and efficient in carrying out daily tasks.
- Mental and emotional well-being: Having time to socialise, engage in personal activities, or simply relax helps prevent burnout and stress.
- Stronger employer-helper relationship: Respecting your helper’s rights fosters a positive work environment and mutual trust.
Managing rest days and time off effectively
Here are some best practices for ensuring a smooth and fair arrangement:
- Discuss and agree on rest days early: When hiring a helper, clarify expectations regarding rest days and time off during the initial agreement.
- Respect personal time: Avoid contacting your helper about work-related matters on her rest day unless there is an emergency.
- Encourage safe outings: While helpers have the right to spend their rest day as they wish, encourage them to stay in touch and be aware of their surroundings for safety reasons.
- Be flexible when needed: If your helper needs to adjust her rest day for personal reasons, try to accommodate her request whenever possible.
Public holidays and leave considerations
Domestic helpers in Singapore are not automatically entitled to public holidays. However, employers can grant time off or provide compensation at their discretion. Similarly, annual leave and sick leave policies should be clearly discussed and agreed upon.
You might be interested in:
Why Helpers Should Take Online Training Courses
Dos and Don'ts of Hiring and Managing an Indian Helper
The Importance of Sending Money Home Wisely: A Guide for Helpers
Can I Deduct Costs from My Helper’s Salary? Employer Do’s and Don’ts
2025 Guide for Employers: Hiring and Managing a Domestic Helper in Singapore