22 October 2025

    What You Need to Know about Transfer Maids in Singapore

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    Looking to hire a helper, but want to skip the long wait and high overseas costs? A transfer maid is a great option. 

    Since they are already working in Singapore, the process is often much faster. This guide will walk you through the entire transfer process, from the benefits to the challenges.

    What Is a Transfer Maid?

    When people talk about a transfer maid, they mean a helper who is already here in Singapore. They are basically a helper whose current contract has ended (or is ending soon), and they’ll move to a new family without having to fly home first.

    This is different from hiring a new maid who comes to Singapore from overseas for the very first time. 

    The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has a few clear rules for this process. The current employer needs to give their written consent, the helper must pass a medical check, and you have to get all the right paperwork done to transfer the Work Permit. 

    All of this is handled through MOM’s online portal and follows their specific timing rules.

    Why Do Families Hire Transfer Maids?

    • It’s Fast: Since the helper is already in Singapore and has passed their medical checks, the whole process can often be wrapped up in just a few weeks.
    • You’ll Save Money: You get to skip expensive costs like airfare, overseas training, and settling-in programmes that you would typically have to pay for with a new hire.
    • They Know the Ropes: Transfer maids are usually familiar with Singaporean routines, appliances, and culture, so you won’t have to spend as much time on training.
    • Perfect for Urgent Needs: If your current helper is leaving unexpectedly or you suddenly need childcare, a transfer maid is your quickest and most reliable option.

    Interested? Maybe the Intergreat maid agency may have just the right helper for you!

    The Transfer Process: A Quick Guide

    What You Need

    • First, the current employer has to give their permission in writing.
    • The helper must have passed her 6-month medical check.
    • The Work Permit needs to be valid during the transfer request.

    The Paperwork

    • As the new employer, you’ll submit a transfer application through the Ministry of Manpower’s (MOM) online portal.
    • MOM usually processes applications in about a week, but it can sometimes take 2-4 weeks if there are any issues with the paperwork.

    The Final Steps

    • Once MOM gives its approval, everyone, including the helper, the current employer, and you, will sign a transfer declaration form.
    • You will also need to get insurance and a security bond.

    Hey now, if you want to explore more on all your hiring options, you can always check out our complete maid agency Singapore guide!

    The Costs You Can Expect

    • Agency Fees: These costs can really differ, but you’ll usually pay the agency somewhere between $800–$3,000 for their services.
    • Government Fees: You’ll also pay a small fee to the MOM for the Work Permit application and issuance, which is typically around $70 in total.
    • Maid Levy: This is a monthly government fee. For your first helper, it’s usually $300. But if you’re eligible, you can pay a discounted rate of just $60 a month.
    • Salary: Since transfer maids have experience, they’re often paid a bit more, usually starting from $800 to $850 or higher, depending on their skills. This is often more than the typical starting salary for a brand-new hire.
    • Insurance & Security Bond: You’re required to get medical and personal accident insurance (with minimum coverage) and a security bond of around $5,000. These are typically arranged as a package.

    If you want to start your search but don’t know where to start, try checking out our blog on NetMaid Search.

    Pros and Cons of Hiring a Transfer Maid

    Pros

    • You’ll Get a Helper Faster: The process is much quicker and has fewer delays compared to hiring from overseas.
    • No need for learning curve: Since they’re already in Singapore, they understand local routines and appliances, so there’s less time needed for training.
    • You Can Save Money: You can often avoid the expensive costs of international travel and settling-in fees.

    Cons

    • You’re Taking a Risk: Transfer maids may be looking for a new job because of a past issue or a poor fit with their last employer.
    • They’re Hard to Find: Good transfer helpers are in high demand and can be difficult to find.
    • Higher Costs Down the Line: While you save money upfront, transfer maids often expect a higher salary, which could outweigh your initial savings.
    • Relying on Trust: You have to trust that the agency and the helper are being honest about why they’re transferring, as past problems aren’t always fully disclosed.

    Conclusion

    Choosing a transfer maid can be an excellent option for families who want a helper who can get started quickly and is already familiar with Singapore life.

    However, to make the process a success, you’ll need to do your due diligence. That means really looking into the helper’s history and being prepared for potential differences in salary and contract terms.

    Always be sure to work closely with a licensed agency and follow all the official regulations to avoid any problems.

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