Besides salary, Singapore employers of migrant domestic workers (MDWs) pay a monthly foreign worker levy to MOM. The levy is separate from agency fees, insurance, and your helper’s salary — and it continues for as long as the Work Permit is valid.
Standard levy rates
MOM publishes the current levy tiers on its website. Households typically pay the normal rate for their first MDW unless they qualify for a concession. Some families qualify for a concessionary rate when they live with young children, elderly persons, or persons with disabilities who are Singapore citizens — subject to MOM’s conditions.
How levy is paid
Employers usually set up GIRO or another approved payment method so levy is deducted monthly. Late or missed payments can affect Work Permit renewals, so treat levy like any recurring household bill.
Levy is not the same as salary
Your helper’s monthly salary is negotiated and stated in the employment contract. Levy is an employer tax and must not be deducted from the helper’s salary unless MOM explicitly allows a specific arrangement — in practice, employers should assume they pay levy on top of salary.
Planning your budget
When costing a helper, include: salary, levy, food and accommodation, insurance, medical checks (6ME), rest-day compensation if applicable, and agency service charges. Budgeting upfront avoids stress after your helper arrives.
Levy amounts and concession criteria are updated by MOM. Check the official levy page on mom.gov.sg for the latest figures before you hire.
