Due to the available travel restrictions, almost no new foreign domestic helpers (FDW) are being hired in Singapore. As a result, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has made it easier by allowing employers to hire transfer maids through maid agencies. But before partnering with a Singapore transfer maid, you need to know what is bound to come your way.
You might wonder, why transfer maid? Well, this is currently a safe and low-risk way to hire a maid in Singapore. There is less risk of disease transmission since they are not coming from another country.
Not to mention, employers who wish to terminate their maid’s contract may do so through an employment agency even if the maid has not yet found a new employer. If she is not rehired within 14 days, she will be repatriated to her home country by the appointed agent.
The good thing about partnering with a Singapore transfer maid is that it helps reduce cost for former and new employers. Actually, former employers can save money on their maid’s return ticket, while new employers avoid the costs of bringing in a new FDW into the country. These expenses include professional courses for new maids undertaken by MOM.
And since transfer maids have already worked in Singapore, less training is needed. Compared to a new maid with zero experience, a transfer maid would know her way around, be able to communicate effectively, be aware of local dietary preferences, and have a better understanding on how to use electronics and appliances better.
Before making this all-important hiring decision, you should always ensure that the current employer has sent the maid for her 6-monthly medical examination. Moreover, you should get the current employer’s written consent on the transfer. You will receive the IPA letter, which will have information on the transfer data and when the new Work Permit needs to be issued by.
If you want to terminate your maid’s contract and transfer her to a new employer, you need to ensure that your maid has gone for her latest 6-monthly medical examination. You should also confirm the transfer agreement by signing the declaration form in the In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter issued by the new employer or agency representative.
We hope the above quick guide can come in handy the next time you choose to partner with a Singapore transfer maid.
