How to Renew Your Domestic Worker's Work Permit in Singapore (2025)

Understanding the Renewal Process: Key Timelines and Requirements

A Work Permit (WP) for your FDW usually lasts two years. You must renew it to continue her employment legally. MOM sends a renewal letter about eight weeks (two months) before expiry. You should apply between seven to twelve weeks before the expiry date. If your FDW plans to travel overseas, renew her permit before she leaves.

Consequences of Late Renewal: Not renewing on time can lead to fines and continued levy payments. You can request a short extension (up to one month) through the FDW eService if needed. If an extension is granted but you don’t keep your FDW, cancel her Work Permit before the extended date to avoid losing your security bond.  

Eligibility Criteria for Work Permit Renewal

Both your FDW and you must meet certain rules for renewal.

For Your FDW:

• Age: 23 to 60 years old at renewal.
• Passport: Valid for at least seven months beyond renewal date. Renew it first if expiring soon.
• Medical Checks: Passed six-monthly medical exam (6ME)
• Good Record: Clean employment record in Singapore.

For You, the Employer:

• Basic Rules: At least 21 years old, not bankrupt, and able to meet employer responsibilities.  
• Foreign Worker Quota: Adhere to the foreign worker quota. Check via FDW eService.  
• Report Changes: Inform MOM of any changes (e.g., FDW’s marital status, family changes, job scope).

Essential Preparations Before Online Submission

Get these ready before applying online:

Documents You Need:

• Scanned copy of FDW’s passport
• Medical examination form (if MOM requires)
• Security bond
• Personal accident insurance (PAI)
• Medical insurance
• Address (only if the Temporary Work Permit states that your helper will be getting a new card)

Insurance and Security Bond:

• Medical & Personal Accident Insurance (PAI): Must be continuous. Medical: at least $15,000/year. PAI: at least $60,000/year. New policy must match Work Permit renewal date.
  
• Security Bond: $5,000 for non-Malaysian FDWs. Your insurer must send bond details to MOM before you apply (takes 1-3 days).  

Other Steps Before Applying:

• New Contract: You should discuss and issue a new employment contract with your FDW.  

Step-by-Step Online Renewal via MOM’s FDW eService

The renewal process is online. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Log In to MOM’s eService Go to the MOM website and log in to the FDW eService or WP Online portal using your SingPass.

Step 2: Navigate and Check Eligibility Find the “Work Permit renewal” section. You can only proceed once your new insurance details have been sent to MOM by your insurer (1-2 days after purchase).

Step 3: Submit Application and Upload Documents Log in to WP Online to submit the application. Upload all required documents.

Step 4: Pay the Renewal Fee The fee is $35. Pay online using VISA, MasterCard, eNETS debit, or PayNow.

Step 5: Get Immediate Outcome The application outcome is usually immediate. MOM will issue a Work Permit renewal notice. Print the Temporary Work Permit (TWP) and confirmation letter.

Fees and Payment Methods

Maid Insurance & Bond: $400-$500 (Medical: $15,000/year; PAI: $60,000/year).

MOM Renewal Fee: $35.

Post-Renewal Procedures and Compliance

After approval, take these steps:

Handle Old Work Permit Card: Follow instructions in the letter. Keep it if told, or cut in half and discard if getting a new card. Unnecessary return costs $60.  

Check New Work Permit Dates: Note the new expiry date. Validity might be shorter than two years if passport or security bond expires sooner.  

Update Records and Inform FDW: Update employment records and tell your FDW about her new Work Permit and terms. Give her a copy of the new contract.

Addressing Challenges: Rejections, Appeals, and Common Mistakes

Late Renewals: Can lead to fines and levy payments. Cancel permit before extended expiry to avoid losing security bond.

Work Permit Rejection: Reasons include maximum employment period, age, invalid passport, or missed medical requirements.

Appeals: You can appeal within 30 days if you have new information or have fixed the issue. Appeals take at least three weeks.  

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Illegal Work Locations 
• Late Salary Payments 
• Keeping Passport 
• Missing Deadlines  
• Incomplete Documents
• FDW Living Elsewhere  
• Not Documenting/Keeping Copies  
• Not Updating Address