Written Answer to PQ on MDW levy concession for expectant parents

NOTICE PAPER NO. 51 OF 2025 FOR THE SITTING ON 22 SEPTEMBER 2025
QUESTION NO. 270 FOR WRITTEN ANSWER

MP: Mr Gabriel Lam

To ask the Minister for Manpower (a) whether the Ministry will consider extending the concessionary MDW levy rate of $60 to first-time expectant parents 2-3 months before delivery; (b) what will be the fiscal and policy implications of such an extension, including potential beneficiary numbers and impact on levy revenues; and (c) whether the Ministry will study alternative support options, such as temporary levy waivers.

Answer:

The concessionary levy of $60 per month for migrant domestic workers is given to households with caregiving needs. Hence, it is extended to households with a Singapore Citizen below 16 years old, as well as other care recipients. Households would be eligible for the levy concession when the Singaporean child is born.

2. The Government will continue to monitor the need to extend concessionary levy or alternative support for expectant parents, and review our policies as necessary.