Work Permit renewal is an important process that employers must complete before the permit expires.
If you want to continue employing your maid, it is important to understand the process and the timeline for maid Work Permit Renewal.
The renewal process is managed by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and should be completed before the permit expires to avoid penalties, overstaying issues, or disruptions to household arrangements.
Below, we explain the process timeline.
Timeline for Maid Work Permit Renewal
8 to 12 Weeks Before Expiry
This is the ideal period for preparation. You should check the expiry date of your maid’s Work Permit and ensure she intends to continue employment.
MOM allows Work Permit renewals once employers receive the renewal letter.
At this period, you should
- Discuss renewal terms with your maid
- Review salary adjustments or rest day arrangements if needed
- Ensure your maid’s passport information is updated
- Prepare to renew insurance and security bond
Around 8 Weeks Before Expiry
Moving on to the next part of the timeline for maid Work Permit renewal: around 8 weeks before the expiry date.
At this point, MOM usually sends a renewal letter or notification to the employer.
This letter contains instructions and indicates whether your maid needs a medical examination.
If you didn’t receive the letter, print a copy from MOM’s website.
6 to 7 Weeks Before Expiry
This period is ideal for completing supporting requirements.
- Medical examination
Some maids are required to undergo a medical examination before renewal approval. The employer must arrange the appointment and upload the signed medical form during the renewal application process.
- Insurance renewal
Employers must renew medical insurance, personal accident insurance, and security bond (for non-Malaysian maids).
5 to 6 Weeks Before Expiry
Once all documents are ready, employers can submit the renewal application online through MOM’s FDW eService portal.
The renewal cost is $35, which you can pay by Visa, Mastercard, or PayNow.
The outcome is immediate, provided all documents are complete and accurate.
After Submission
After approval, MOM issues a Temporary Work Permit. Print and check this document to see what to do next.
If the Temporary Work Permit states to continue using the existing card, the card must be kept by the maid.
If it states getting a new card, the existing card must be cut in half and discarded. The new card will be delivered to the address you provided to MOM.
1 Month Before Expiry
In the last part of the timeline for maid Work Permit renewal, you should verify that the renewed Work Permit has been approved, your maid has received updated employment documents, insurance policies remain active, and the card delivery arrangement is completed if applicable.
What Happens if Renewal Is Late?
Late renewals may lead to levy penalties, overstaying fines, administrative complications, and possible disruption to employment.
Even after the permit expires, employers may still be liable for levy payments until they are resolved.
If you can’t complete the renewal process on time, you can request for an extension.
FAQs Timeline for Maid Work Permit Renewal
How long is the renewed permit valid?
The permit is valid for 2 years, but it may be shorter in certain situations.
Does the maid need a medical examination?
In some situations, yes. Check the renewal letter to see if your maid needs to go for a medical examination for the renewal.
What insurance is required?
Employers must provide medical insurance and personal accident insurance that meet MOM’s minimum requirements.
Can the maid continue working while the process is ongoing?
Usually yes, provided the renewal application was submitted before the current permit expires.
Can a maid agency handle the renewal?
Yes. Many employers authorize maid agencies to manage the process, though the employer still holds legal responsibility.
Conclusion
Renewing a maid’s Work Permit requires proper planning, timely action, and accurate documentation.
Knowing the timeline for maid Work Permit renewal helps you prepare and ensure the process goes smoothly without unnecessary complications or legal risks.
At Status Maids, we provide assistance for employers who want to continue employing their maid. We offer a wide range of maid-related services, which include Work Permit application, renewal, and cancellation, direct hiring, maid transfer, arrangement of medical check-up, and more.
We are a trusted International Plaza maid agency with 24+ years of experience and have served more than 30,000 households. If you need assistance or have any enquiries, get in touch with us at Status Maids.