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Employer requirements for hiring an MDW

As an employer, you need to meet the eligibility criteria before hiring a migrant domestic worker (MDW).

Who is eligible

To hire a helper, you must:

  • Be 21 years old and above.
  • Not be an undischarged bankrupt.
  • Have the mental capacity to fully understand and discharge your responsibility as an employer.

We will also consider your care-giving needs (e.g. young children or elderly family members) and financial ability to hire, maintain and upkeep the helper in an acceptable accommodation.

If you are a first-time employer of a helper, you must attend an Employer Orientation Programme (EOP) before you can apply for a Work Permit. 

You should not be diagnosed with any medical condition that would impair your ability to exercise supervision and control over the well-being of the helper.

Examples of such medical conditions include Alzheimer, dementia and schizophrenia which can cause symptoms such as severe memory lapses, confusion, emotional instability, progressive loss of mental ability, paranoia, etc.

Use the pass map to get an idea of the steps you need to take when hiring a helper.