A Transfer Maid in Singapore: A Quick & Efficient Hiring Solution
A transfer maid in Singapore refers to a domestic helper who is already employed locally but seeking a new employer. This hiring option is faster and more efficient than recruiting maids from overseas. Families in urgent need of assistance often choose transfer maids because they are readily available and require less time to adjust to the work environment.
Benefits of Transfer Maids in Singapore for Families
Hiring a transfer maid offers unique advantages that make them a practical choice for households:
Local Experience
Transfer maids are familiar with Singapore’s culture, customs, and routines. They are often skilled in managing local household tasks efficiently.
Proven Track Record
Transfer maids come with prior work experience and references from previous employers. This provides reassurance about their reliability and capabilities.
Faster Onboarding
Unlike overseas hires, transfer maids are already in Singapore. This means they can begin work within days, saving families valuable time.
Cost-Effective Option
With lower upfront costs compared to overseas recruitment, hiring a transfer maid is a budget-friendly choice for families.
No Language Barriers
Many transfer maids are already proficient in English or other local languages, ensuring smooth communication.
Why Hiring a Transfer Maid is Better Than New Hires
Choosing a transfer maid over a new hire from overseas has several advantages:
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Time-Saving
The process of hiring a transfer maid is faster as they are already in the country and have existing work permits. -
Immediate Availability
Transfer maids are often available to start work immediately, which is ideal for families with urgent needs. -
Familiarity with Local Environment
Having worked in Singapore before, transfer maids require minimal orientation and can adapt quickly to their new workplace. -
Lower Risk
With references and work history readily available, families can make informed decisions when hiring transfer maids. -
Efficient Work Performance
Experience in local households means transfer maids are often better prepared to meet expectations without extensive training.
Difference between Transfer Maids and New Hires
Hiring a transfer maid in Singapore differs from hiring a new helper from overseas. Transfer maids are already in Singapore and have experience working in local households, making them familiar with local customs, routines, and possibly possessing specialized skills or language proficiency. This makes them more adaptable and ready to start immediately. Conversely, new hires from abroad require time for travel, work permit processing, and training, which can take several weeks to months.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Transfer Maid
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Skipping Background Checks: Always verify the maid’s references and previous work history to ensure reliability.
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Vague Job Expectations: Clearly outline the maid’s responsibilities and your household’s rules to avoid misunderstandings later.
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Ignoring Legal Formalities: Work closely with an agency to complete necessary paperwork, including work permits and insurance.
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Rushing the Interview Process: Take time to evaluate candidates thoroughly to find the best match for your household.
Conditions of Transfer Maid in Singapore
If You Are the Current Employer
Medical Examination
Ensure the helper has completed her 6-monthly medical examination.
Pay Levy
Continue paying the levy until the new employer issues the Work Permit. The current Work Permit will be automatically cancelled once the new permit is issued, and levy billing will stop.
Approve Transfer Request
Log in to the FDW eService to approve the transfer request from the new employer. Wait for the email notification before logging in to approve it.
Security Bond
The security bond will be discharged one week after the helper starts working for the new employer. You will receive a notification by post.
If You Are the New Employer
Check Medical Examination
Confirm that the helper has completed her 6-monthly medical examination and has a Work Permit valid for more than 30 days.
Receive Outcome
Expect to receive the application outcome within a week. If approved, you will get an in-principle approval (IPA) via email, which you can download from the FDW eService.
Get Permit Issued
Coordinate with the current employer to set a transfer date. On the agreed date, use the FDW eService to issue the new Work Permit and upload the declaration form. Provide the Temporary Work Permit to the helper, allowing her to start working for you. The current Work Permit will be cancelled automatically.
Submit Application
Log in to the FDW eService to request the current employer’s consent for the transfer. Once consent is received, proceed with applying for the helper’s Work Permit.
Prepare for Transfer
Follow the steps on the IPA, including purchasing a security bond, medical and personal accident insurance, and signing the declaration form with the helper.
How to Hire a Transfer Maid in Singapore
Hiring a transfer maid in Singapore involves several steps to ensure a smooth process:
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Identify Your Needs: Begin by outlining the specific tasks you require assistance with. These may include childcare, eldercare, cooking, or household cleaning. Understanding your needs helps you find a maid with the relevant experience and skills.
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Partner with an Agency: Working with a trusted agency simplifies the hiring process. Agencies handle legal documentation, permit transfers, and provide a selection of pre-screened candidates.
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Interview Candidates: Conduct face-to-face interviews to evaluate the candidate’s suitability. Their previous work experience and communication skills are some of the considerations we look at to match with your household's needs.
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Finalize Documentation: Ensure all legal formalities are completed. This includes transferring work permits, arranging medical checks, and purchasing the necessary insurance.
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Prepare for Onboarding: Once the maid is approved to start work, clear instructions are provided for their detailed outline of daily responsibilities. This helps establish expectations and fosters a positive, productive working relationship.
Request a Quote
Frequently Asked Questions
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How do I choose a maid agency?When selecting a maid agency in Singapore, it's important to ensure that they have a valid license from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and a good track record with years of experience in the industry. Furthermore, reading online reviews and testimonials from past clients can provide valuable insights into the quality and reliability of their services.
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Should I hire a babysitter or maid to care for my baby?If you need help with daily household tasks along with childcare, hiring a maid would be more appropriate. However, if you only require assistance with your child while you're at work, a babysitter may be a better option.
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Can you assist my current helper in finding a new employer?Yes, we can assist your current helper in finding a new employer. For more information, reach out to us at contact@ckemploymentservices.com.sg
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Can I transfer my maid to your agency?Yes, you can. We will interview the maid to find out if she's suitable for our agency. For more information, reach out to us at contact@ckemploymentservices.com.sg
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Who can hire a maid in Singapore?You can hire a maid in Singapore if you are a Singapore citizen, permanent resident, or a foreigner having a valid employment pass.
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What is the maid placement fee?It is the fees paid by maid agencies in Singapore for their services. Typically, it includes charges for documentation, maid insurance, training, and other administrative costs. The charges of different agencies can vary depending on their services, so make sure to understand the fee structure Offer made agency before engaging with them.
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How many hours can a maid work in Singapore?According to the Ministry of Manpower, a maid is recommended to work for a maximum of 8-9 hours a day.
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How much is the salary of a domestic helper in Singapore in 2024?Depending upon the experience and job scope, the maid's salary in Singapore varies from $500 to $850. The employer pays this amount at the end of every month.
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Is there a difference between a domestic helper and a foreign domestic worker?No, domestic helpers, foreign domestic workers, and maids are interchangeable terms used to refer to individuals who are employed to assist with household tasks and provide other forms of domestic assistance.