Hiring a domestic helper in Singapore means you will need to pay a Foreign Domestic Worker (FDW) Levy every month. This is a fee paid to the Singapore government (Ministry of Manpower), and it is completely separate from the helper’s salary. Many first-time employers are unsure why the levy exists, how much it costs, and how to pay it — so here is a clear and simple guide.
What Is the FDW Levy?
The FDW Levy is a monthly payment that all employers of domestic helpers must pay to the Singapore government.
It is not paid to the helper, and it is not part of her salary.
The levy is meant to regulate the number of helpers working in Singapore.
How Much Is the FDW Levy?
There are two main levy rates:
1. $300 (Standard Monthly Levy)
This applies to most households hiring an FDW.
2. $60 (Concessionary Levy)
- You may qualify for the reduced $60 levy if your household meets certain conditions, such as having:
- A Singaporean child (below 16 years old)
- A Singaporean elderly family member (65 years old and above)
- A family member with disabilities who requires care
- Staying in the same household at the registered address
This concession is not automatic — it must be applied for and approved.
If you are unsure whether you qualify, we can help check for you.
When Does the Levy Start?
Levy begins once your helper’s Work Permit is issued.
It does not wait until she starts work — the moment MOM approves her permit, levy charges begin.
How Do You Pay the Levy?
Payment is done automatically through:
✔ GIRO (most common, required by MOM)
You will apply for GIRO during the hiring process. MOM deducts the levy from your bank account monthly.
✔ PayNow or AXS (if GIRO fails)
If your GIRO deduction is unsuccessful, MOM will inform you and you can pay manually.
✔ No cash or credit card payments accepted
When Is the Levy Deducted?
MOM deducts the levy around the 17th of every month from your bank account. To avoid penalties or Work Permit issues, ensure you always maintain enough balance in your GIRO account.
What Happens If You Don’t Pay the Levy?
If the levy is not paid:
- MOM may suspend your helper’s Work Permit
- Future maid applications may be affected
- You may face late payment penalties
- Work Permit renewal may be blocked
It is very important to ensure the levy is paid on time every month.
Can You Claim the Levy Back?
No. The levy is not refundable.
It is a government tax and is separate from any salary or agency fee.
Does the Levy Affect Your Helper’s Salary?
No. Your helper’s monthly salary is completely separate from the levy.
Even if you pay the high or low levy, her salary does not change.
Why Is There a Levy at All?
The levy helps:
- Regulate the number of FDWs in Singapore
- Ensure employers are financially capable
- Support long-term manpower planning
This system has been used for many years and applies to all FDW employers.
Need Help Understanding the Levy or Hiring a Helper?
Hiring a foreign domestic helper for the first time can feel complicated. At Universal Employment Agency Pte Ltd, we will guide all our customers with our many years of experience.
Need Help Understanding the Levy or Hiring a Helper?
Hiring a foreign domestic helper for the first time can feel complicated. At Universal Employment Agency Pte Ltd, we will guide all our customers with our many years of experience.
Speak to us now!
When you’re ready to hire, reach out to the team at Universal Employment Agency Pte Ltd. You can call them at 6735 3456 or visit their office at Lucky Plaza #04-56 to hire your next maid. Alternatively, submit your requirements using their online form and receive a response within 3 business days.
