Looking to direct hire a transfer maid in Singapore without going through an agency? The process is simpler than you think! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you bring in a helper smoothly and hassle-free.
Before you start, check that you meet the basic requirements:
– You must be at least 21 years old and not bankrupt.
– You should have the financial means to support a helper.
– First-time employers need to complete the Employer’s Orientation Programme (EOP), which you can do online or in person.
Since you’re looking for a direct transfer, focus on helpers already in Singapore who are available for transfer. You can find them through Employhelpers where we have robust filtering to find your desired helper, including MOM verified candidates. Alternatively you can do the tedious job of browsing through the following:
– Facebook groups and community forums.
– Referrals from friends or neighbours or even other domestic helpers.
Once you’ve shortlisted candidates, set up an interview to discuss:
– Work experience and skills.
– Daily job expectations.
– Salary, off days, and other work arrangements.
– Any specific needs your family might have.
If possible, contact previous employers for feedback on the helper’s performance or check the helper’s testimonial section of her profile on our site.
Before submitting an application to Ministry of Manpower, you should check with the current employer to:
1. Agree on transfer of helper and the exact date
2. Confirm that the helper has completed her 6-monthly medical examination (6ME).
If she has not, you can send her to any General Practitioner for ~$30. This ensures you have a peace of mind hiring the helper.
Ensure the domestic helper’s Work Permit is valid for more than 30 days. If the permit is expiring, the current employer can request an extension of the Work Permit.
An example opening message you could use: “Hi [Mr Lee], I understand that your domestic helper, [Ms Aziz], is ending her contract with you soon. I would like to transfer [Ms Aziz] to my residence for a new domestic helper contract. Are you able to advise on the date of transfer?”
Log in to the FDW eService to request the current employer’s consent. MOM will send an email to the current employer for consent. Once consent is obtained, you can apply for the helper’s new Work Permit via the same link. This should be done at least 30 days before the helper’s Work Permit expires. The outcome is usually provided within a week, and if approved, you will receive the in-principle approval (IPA) by email. Employers can also download the IPA and declaration form from the FDW eService.
After the IPA is received, you need to take care of these:
– Buy a security bond & maid insurance (required by MOM).
– Print & sign the Declaration form from MOM with you and your helper.
– Double check on the exact transfer date with the current employer.
– On the transfer date, log in to MOM’s FDW eService to issue the new Work Permit & Upload the Declaration Form.
– Lastly, Print the Temporary Work Permit, which lets your helper start working for you while waiting for the official Work Permit card. Her current Work Permit will be cancelled by MOM automatically.
Once the transfer is done, there are a few last steps:
– She must go for a medical check-up within two weeks of starting if she hasn’t done so with the previous employer. You can do this at any GP (General Practitioner)
– You’ll need to pay the monthly levy for her employment. (Giro will be easier)
Hiring a transfer helper on your own can save you a lot in agency fees. Just make sure to follow these steps carefully to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your helper. Good luck with the hiring process! Start your search today!
