Printable Employment Contract Template for FDW (Foreign Domestic Worker) / Maid

Download a printable employment contract for your FDW / Maid.

You’re about to embark on a journey that will bring valuable support into your home. A crucial first step in this process is establishing a clear, legally compliant, and mutually understood employment contract with your Foreign Domestic Worker (FDW) or maid. At EmployHelper, we believe in fostering strong, transparent relationships from day one, which is why we provide a meticulously crafted, employment contract template designed specifically for direct-hire scenarios in Singapore.

You are encouraged to sign a contract with your MDW before employment starts. This ensures there are no disputes on important matters in the future.

Why an Employment Contract is Non-Negotiable for FDWs in Singapore

While the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) encourages employers to have a written employment contract with their FDWs, many employers might underestimate its full importance. This document serves as the bedrock of your working relationship, offering clarity and protection for both parties.

Here’s why it’s absolutely essential:

• Clarity on Terms & Conditions: It precisely outlines salary, rest days, job scope, accommodation, notice periods, and other critical terms, leaving no room for ambiguity.
• Dispute Prevention: A well-defined contract acts as a reference point, helping to prevent misunderstandings and resolve potential disputes amicably.
• Protection for Both Parties: It safeguards the rights and responsibilities of both the employer and the FDW, ensuring fair treatment and clear expectations.
• Professionalism: It establishes a professional framework for your employment relationship, building trust and respect from the outset.

What Our MOM-Compliant Template Provides

Our downloadable template isn’t just a generic form; it’s a carefully structured document tailored to the unique requirements of FDW employment in Singapore. When you download our template, you’ll find sections designed to cover all necessary aspects:

• Parties Involved: Clear identification of both employer(s) and the FDW.
• Employment Period: Start date and duration of the contract.
• Remuneration: Detailed breakdown of basic salary, allowances (if any), and how salary will be paid.
• Rest Days: Clear stipulation of weekly rest days as per MOM regulations.
• Job Scope & Duties: A comprehensive list of the FDW’s responsibilities to avoid scope creep.
• Accommodation: Details about the living arrangements provided.
• Medical & Insurance: Provisions for medical treatment and mandatory insurance coverage.
• Notice Period: Agreed-upon terms for termination by either party.
• Disciplinary Procedures: Guidelines for addressing performance issues or misconduct.
• Workplace Safety & Responsibilities: Adherence to safe work practices.
• Privacy & Confidentiality: Clauses to protect household privacy.

Our template is designed to be easily customisable, allowing you to fill in the specifics of your agreement while ensuring all mandatory MOM requirements are met.

Before You Sign: Important Considerations

Before putting pen to paper, take the time to ensure both you and your FDW are fully aligned and understand every clause. This proactive approach can save significant headaches down the line.

• Thorough Review: Read the entire contract carefully, clause by clause.
• Open Communication: Discuss each section with your FDW. Encourage her to ask questions and clarify any doubts she may have.
• Language Comprehension: It is crucial that your FDW understands the contract in a language she comprehends. If necessary, provide a verbal translation or seek assistance to ensure full understanding.
• Mutual Agreement: The contract should reflect a mutual agreement. Avoid imposing terms without discussion.
• No Recruitment Fees: Emphasise that EmployHelper’s direct-hire model means no illegal recruitment fees are charged to the FDW. This sets a positive, ethical tone for your employment relationship, reinforcing the benefits of using a platform like ours.

After the Ink Dries: Post-Signing Steps

Once the contract is signed by both parties:

• 1. Retain Copies: Ensure both you and your FDW have a signed copy for your records.
  2. Regular Review: It’s good practice to periodically review the contract (e.g., annually, or if there are significant changes in duties or circumstances) to ensure it remains relevant and accurate.

Download Your Employment Contract Template

Ready to ensure a clear and fair start to your employment relationship? Visit our Employment contract generator over here.

Common Questions About FDW Employment Contracts

While you don’t typically submit the full employment contract to MOM, the key terms (like salary, rest days, and job scope) are declared during the FDW application process (e.g., in the In-Principle Approval, or IPA). Your employment contract should accurately reflect these declared terms.

Yes, the template is designed to be customisable. You can add or modify clauses to fit your household’s specific requirements, as long as they comply with MOM regulations and do not contradict any mandatory terms.

It is your responsibility to ensure your FDW understands the terms of the contract. You should explain it to her in a language she comprehends, or arrange for assistance to translate. Mutual understanding is key. You can also use our chatbot Lenny for help on translating it to your desired language.

It’s advisable to review the contract annually, or whenever there are significant changes to the FDW’s duties, salary, or living arrangements. This ensures the document remains relevant and accurate.