Maid Agency Singapore: The Ultimate Guide (2026)
19 Sep 2026 · 9 min read · Maid Agency
TL;DR
Hiring through a maid agency in Singapore typically costs $800–$3,000 in agency fees depending on nationality and experience level, plus monthly salary of $600–$800 and levy of $60–$300. Always check for MOM licensing, transparent fee breakdowns, and a proper replacement policy before signing anything. Don't just chope the first agency you see at Peninsula Plaza — compare at least 3 quotes first.
If you're a busy parent juggling work, kids and that never-ending pile of laundry, you've probably thought about hiring a helper at least once (especially after that 3rd time doing the dishes at 11pm). But navigating the world of maid agencies in Singapore can feel like a maze — confusing fees, dodgy contracts, and agencies that oversell like a Geylang durian seller. This guide breaks it all down so you don't get kena-ed.
1. What Exactly Does a Maid Agency Do?
A maid agency acts as the middleman between you and a Foreign Domestic Worker (FDW), handling everything from sourcing candidates, work permit processing, medical checks, to the actual matching interview. Think of them like a dating app, except instead of swiping for love, you're swiping for someone who can handle your in-laws' visits without flinching.
Good agencies also provide post-placement support — like helping mediate if things go sideways between you and your helper, or arranging a replacement if the match doesn't work out.
2. Types of Maid Hiring in Singapore
- New hire (first-timer): Helper has no prior experience working in Singapore. Cheaper upfront but steeper learning curve.
- Experienced transfer maid: Already in Singapore, transferring from a previous employer. Faster process (as fast as 1–2 weeks) and you can usually interview them in person or via video call before deciding.
- Ex-Singapore experienced maid (overseas): Has worked here before but returned home. Good middle ground — experienced but needs to be flown back in.
Transfer maids are the lobang for families who need help ASAP — no waiting 2-3 months for processing like with new hires.
3. How Much Does a Maid Agency Cost in Singapore? (2026 Pricing)
| Item | Typical Cost (SGD) |
|---|---|
| Agency fee (new hire, e.g. Indonesian/Myanmar helper) | $800 – $1,800 |
| Agency fee (experienced transfer maid) | $500 – $1,200 |
| Agency fee (Filipino helper via POEA process) | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| Monthly salary | $600 – $800 |
| Monthly levy (with concession) | $60 |
| Monthly levy (without concession) | $300 |
| Security bond (insurance-backed) | $5,000 (via insurance, ~$40–$80/year) |
| Medical insurance (min $60,000 coverage) | $100 – $300/year |
Some agencies bundle fees into 
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