Hiring a domestic helper in Singapore involves more than just choosing the right person for your household. As an employer, you have the legal and moral responsibility to provide fair wages and proper working conditions.
In 2025, it’s important to understand the latest salary guidelines, cost factors, and responsibilities involved when hiring a helper. This guide will walk you through the updated salary rates by nationality, other mandatory costs, and practical tips to ensure a smooth and fair hiring process.
Minimum Monthly Salary by Nationality (2025 Updates)
The Singapore Ministry of Manpower (MOM) does not fix a standard salary for domestic helpers. However, several source countries—such as the Philippines and Indonesia—do set a minimum monthly salary for their nationals working abroad.
1. Philippines
According to the Philippine Overseas Labour Office (POLO), the minimum basic monthly salary for Fresh Filipino domestic helpers remains at SGD $600 in 2025. This amount is enforced to ensure fair treatment of Filipino workers abroad and must be stated in the employment contract.
2. Indonesia
The Indonesian Embassy in Singapore sets salary guidelines for Indonesian helpers. As of 2025, the minimum basic monthly salary for Fresh Indonesian domestic workers remains at SGD $550. They can get higher salaries depending on experience, skills, and job requirements.
3. Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and India
There are no officially set minimum salaries for helpers from these countries, but market practices in Singapore typically offer SGD $500 to $750 monthly. Salaries may vary based on the helper’s skills and responsibilities.
Other Key Cost Factors Beyond Basic Salary
1. Monthly Levy
The government requires employers to pay a monthly levy for each domestic helper.
- Concessionary rate: SGD $60 (for eligible families, such as those with children under 16 years old, elderly members above 67 years old, or persons with disabilities and must be Singaporean or Permanent Resident)
- Standard rate: SGD $300
As explained by the Ministry of Manpower, the levy must be paid through CPF and is non-refundable if the helper is on leave or not working temporarily.
2. Rest Days and Compensation
From 1 January 2023, MOM requires all domestic helpers to have at least one rest day per month that cannot be compensated with money. This rest day is meant to support their mental well-being and recovery.
Employers and helpers may agree to compensate additional rest days with extra pay if the helper chooses to work on them.
3. Insurance and Other Obligations
Employers must also provide:
- Hospitalisation insurance with a minimum coverage of SGD $60,000 per year
- Personal accident insurance of at least SGD $60,000
- Food, accommodation, and basic needs
- One-way return airfare when the helper’s employment ends
- Settling-in programme (for first-time helpers in Singapore only)
These are all mandatory and should be factored into the total monthly cost of hiring.
What Affects Helper Salary in 2025?
The helper’s salary may be higher depending on several factors, such as:
- Years of experience in Singapore or abroad
- Specialised skills such as infant care, eldercare, or cooking
- Ability to speak English or other languages
- Complexity of job scope, such as working in large households or caring for multiple children
Offering higher pay to skilled and experienced helpers can help you attract and retain reliable support.
Tips for Employers on Setting Fair Pay
- Start with honest communication during the interview
- Consider the helper’s background, experience, and expectations
- Remember that rest days, insurance, and levy are part of your total cost
- A slightly higher salary can lead to better work performance and long-term retention
Being a fair employer not only helps your household run smoothly, but it also promotes a healthy and respectful working relationship.
Fair Pay, Clear Expectations – with Status Maids
At Status Maids, we make it easy for you to hire the right domestic helper in Singapore with peace of mind.
We stay up to date with all salary trends, legal requirements, and hiring practices to guide you through the process smoothly. Whether you are hiring for the first time or transferring a current helper, our team ensures full compliance while promoting a fair and respectful work environment.
Contact us today and let Status Maids be your trusted partner in finding the right domestic helper for your household in 2025 and beyond.