Hiring a maid in Singapore is a big decision, especially if it’s your first time. With over 1000 licensed maid agencies in the country, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Whether you’re looking for a helper to assist with elderly care, childcare, or household chores, choosing a reliable agency is crucial to avoid future headaches.
This guide helps you navigate the world of Maid Agencies SG, explaining how to identify the best ones using trusted reviews, MOM licensing, and service transparency.
Why Choosing the Right Maid Agency Matters
Choosing a maid agency isn’t just about filling a vacancy it’s about trust, reliability, and long-term peace of mind. A good agency doesn’t just supply a domestic helper they help match the right helper for your family’s unique needs, provide post-placement support, and ensure proper documentation and legal compliance.
A poor agency? You might face:
- Mismatched helpers
- Frequent replacements
- Hidden costs
- Lack of support when things go wrong
Start with Licensed Maid Agencies Only
First rule: Always check if the maid agency is licensed by Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM).
You can verify this easily on the MOM website. Licensed agencies:
- Follow employment laws
- Use approved work permit processes
- Are monitored for performance
Check Their MOM Ratings:
MOM provides placement volume, retention rate, and transfer rate these are key indicators of how well the agency is doing:
- High retention rate: Helpers stay longer with employers.
- Low transfer rate: Fewer disputes or mismatches.
- High placement volume: Agency is experienced and active.
Read Verified Customer Reviews (Not Just Google Ones)
Reviews can reveal a lot about an agency’s reliability.
Look for feedback on:
- Helper quality and training
- Responsiveness of staff
- Hidden charges
- Replacement policy
Where to find trusted reviews:
- Google Reviews (but be cautious of fake ones)
- Facebook Reviews (check comment history and interaction)
- Maid review platforms like FDWmart, HelperChoice, or Maid Avenue
Pro Tip: If most positive reviews sound overly generic, they might be paid. Authentic ones usually mention specific helpers, scenarios, or names of staff.
Ask About Helper Background Checks & Training
A reputable agency doesn’t just import helpers they screen, train, and prepare them for Singapore households.
Questions to ask the agency:
- Do you conduct medical and background checks?
- Do helpers receive basic training (childcare, elderly care, etc.)?
- Do you provide language or cultural training?
Agencies that offer structured training programs are a huge plus especially for first-time helpers adjusting to local routines.
Compare Agency Fees & Replacement Guarantees
In Singapore, the average agency fee ranges from $500 to $2,000, depending on the services provided. This may or may not include:
- MOM work permit application
- Insurance
- Medical check-ups
- Settling-in program
- Return air ticket
Key things to clarify:
- What’s included in the fee?
- Any hidden or additional costs?
- Do you offer a replacement guarantee?
- What’s the refund policy if the match fails?
Reliable agencies are upfront about all charges, including maid loan terms.
Visit the Office or Schedule a Zoom Consultation
A physical visit (or at least a video call) helps you:
- Gauge professionalism of the staff
- Understand the agency’s operations
- Observe how they talk about helpers (respectful or dismissive)
Reputable agencies will not pressure you to confirm on the spot they will guide you, answer questions, and help you feel confident in your choice.
Choose Based on Your Needs (Not Just Location)
Some Maid Agencies SG specialize in:
- Elderly care
- Childcare
- Pet-friendly homes
- Transfer maids (those already in Singapore)
Ask:
- Do you have helpers experienced in dementia care or infant care?
- Are helpers trained in CPR or basic first aid?
The right fit depends more on your needs and their experience than the nearest agency’s address.
Watch for Red Flags
Avoid agencies that:
- Guarantee “perfect” helpers without interviews
- Push you to skip interviews or training
- Withhold helper information
- Offer unusually cheap fees (there’s always a catch)
Transparency builds trust. A good agency will let you interview helpers via video call, share their full biodata, and provide genuine advice even if it means you take more time to decide.
Post-Placement Support Is Just as Important
Ask if the agency:
- Follows up after placement
- Helps in case of disputes
- Assists in renewal or repatriation services
- Offers counselling or support to helpers
Maid hiring is not one-time, it’s a relationship. Good agencies help both employer and helper adjust and communicate better.
Recommended Maid Agencies SG (Examples with Great Reviews)
While we don’t endorse anyone officially, here are some consistently well-rated maid agencies and platforms in Singapore:
SearchMaid Singapore
- A reliable maid agency directory platform that lists licensed agencies across Singapore.
- Lets you filter by helper type, nationality, and reviews.
- Ideal for comparing multiple agencies in one place, checking MOM license numbers, and reading verified feedback.
Island Maids
- Known for transparent pricing and quality support.
- Offers helpers from Indonesia, Myanmar, and the Philippines.
Universal Employment Agency
- MOM-licensed with over 30 years of experience.
- Great for transfer maids and childcare roles.
Jasa Bintang
- Strong reviews for eldercare helpers.
- Provides on-site interviews and a responsive customer hotline.
Choosing the right Maid Agencies SG is a crucial step toward hiring a helper who truly fits your household. Don’t rush the process look for agencies with MOM licensing, transparent fees, and verified reviews. A reliable agency offers proper training, interviews, and post-placement support. The right choice ensures fewer issues and better long-term satisfaction. Remember, good maid agencies don’t just place helpers they build lasting partnerships.
