How to Apply for an FDW Work Permit in Singapore (2026)

Applying for a Foreign Domestic Worker (FDW) work permit in Singapore is a straightforward process – but only if you know the exact sequence of steps and what documents to prepare. This guide covers the full process for first-time employers and those hiring an overseas FDW or a transfer helper.

Who this guide is for
Employers hiring a new overseas FDW or a transfer FDW already in Singapore. If you’re renewing an existing work permit, see our guide on how to renew your FDW work permit.

Before you start: eligibility requirements

MOM requires employers to meet basic criteria before they can hire an FDW:

• Singapore citizen, permanent resident, or eligible Employment Pass / S Pass holder
• Must be able to pay the monthly levy ($300 or $450 or $60 depending on your household profile)
• First-time employers must complete the Employers’ Orientation Programme (EOP) before the FDW arrives

FDWs must be female, aged 23–50, and from one of MOM’s approved source countries (Philippines, Indonesia, Myanmar, India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bangladesh, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, Malaysia, South Korea, Cambodia).

Step-by-step: the work permit application process

1. Find and confirm your helper

Before any paperwork, you need a confirmed helper – either an overseas FDW or a transfer FDW already in Singapore. If you’re hiring direct without an agency, this is where platforms like EmployHelpers come in.

2. Submit the work permit application (In-Principle Approval)

Log in to MOM’s Work Permit Online (WPOL) portal and submit an application. If approved, MOM issues an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter – valid for 6 weeks. The IPA is your helper’s entry pass into Singapore.

3. Complete the Employers’ Orientation Programme (EOP)

First-time employers must complete the EOP online at MOM’s e-Services portal before the FDW arrives. It takes about 2 hours and covers your legal obligations, helper rights, and MOM regulations. Cost is $35-$60.

4. Helper arrives and attends the Settling-In Programme (SIP)

Within 7 days of arrival, your FDW must attend the Settling-In Programme (SIP) – a one-day course that covers her rights, safety, and what to do in an emergency. Cost is ~$75, typically paid by the employer. This applies to first-time FDWs in Singapore; experienced FDWs may be exempted.

5. Medical examination

Your FDW must complete a medical examination at an approved clinic within 2 weeks of arrival, then every 6 months (the 6-Monthly Medical Examination, or 6ME). The first medical check screens for pregnancy, infectious diseases, and general fitness to work.

6. Work permit card issued

Once MOM processes the medical results and all requirements are met, the work permit card is issued. Your helper can now legally work in Singapore. The permit is typically valid for 2 years.

Documents you’ll need

Tip: employment contract
MOM requires a signed employment contract before the work permit is issued. Use a proper contract that covers salary, rest days, duties, and termination terms. Our free FDW employment contract template is here to help.

Timeline

Costs summary

Hidden costs to budget for
The above covers MOM requirements only. For a full picture of what hiring an FDW actually costs – including maid insurance, agency fees if applicable, and repatriation obligations – see our guide on hidden costs of hiring a domestic helper.

Transfer FDWs: what’s different

If you’re hiring a transfer helper already in Singapore, the process is simpler:

• No SIP required – the helper is already here
• The existing work permit is cancelled and a new one is issued
• Medical examination may be waived if she had one recently
• Typical processing time: 2 weeks

Transfer helpers are generally faster and cheaper to hire than overseas FDWs. See our guide on how to direct hire a transfer helper for the full process.