What is the 6ME Checkup for Domestic Helpers in Singapore?

Hiring a domestic helper in Singapore comes with several responsibilities, one of the most critical being the 6-Monthly Medical Examination (6ME). This mandatory health screening ensures your helper remains fit for work and helps maintain the health standards of your household.

Here is a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about the 6ME checkup in 2026.

What is the 6ME Checkup?

The 6ME stands for the Six-Monthly Medical Examination. It is a statutory requirement by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) for all female Migrant Domestic Workers (MDWs) in Singapore.

As an employer, you are legally required to send your helper for this screening every six months to monitor her medical fitness. MOM will send you a notification letter and a 6ME form by post (or via email/SMS) when her checkup is due.

What Does the 6ME Check For?

The specific tests required for each 6ME visit can vary, as some tests are done every six months while others are done every two years. Your MOM notification letter will explicitly state which tests your helper needs at that specific time.

1. Standard 6-Monthly Tests

• Pregnancy Test: To check if the helper is pregnant.
• Syphilis (VDRL): A blood test to screen for syphilis and other venereal diseases.
• Physical Assessment: A general check on Body Mass Index (BMI) and visible signs of abuse or mental well-being.

2. Periodic/Additional Tests

• HIV Screening: Usually required every two years.
• Tuberculosis (TB): Typically a chest X-ray conducted once after the helper has stayed in Singapore for two years.
• Measles Immunity (New for 2026): For households with children under 7 who are not fully vaccinated, helpers must now be screened for measles immunity or receive the MMR vaccine.

How Much Does a 6ME Cost?

The cost of the 6ME varies depending on the clinic and the specific tests required for that session. On average, you can expect to pay between $30 and $80 for the basic screening.

Note: Prices vary by clinic (e.g., Minmed, SATA, or Raffles Medical). The usual is a Basic 6ME test.

Quick Tips for Employers

• Don’t wait until the last minute: Ensure the checkup is completed by the due date stated in the MOM letter to avoid a $5,000 fine or the revocation of the work permit.
• Employer presence: Employers or representatives are generally not allowed to be present in the consultation room during the examination to ensure the helper’s privacy and a fair assessment of her well-being.
• Automatic Submission: Most clinics in Singapore will submit the results directly to MOM electronically within 3 to 5 working days.

Common Employer Questions (FAQs)