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Direct-hire guidance

Direct hiring a domestic helper in Singapore

Direct hire is for an employer who has already identified a helper but still needs to complete the applicable employment process.

Direct hire does not remove MOM requirements. Employer eligibility, helper eligibility, Work Permit processing, insurance, medical and other applicable steps still need to be completed correctly.

When direct hire may fit

You may already know a helper through family, a previous employment relationship or a personal introduction and do not require the agency to source candidates.

What an agency can assist with

  • Checking document readiness and the intended hiring route.
  • Guidance on applicable Work Permit processes.
  • Coordinating required insurance, medical or arrival steps where relevant.
  • Explaining the paperwork and likely timeline.

What to clarify first

Confirm where the helper is currently located, her employment status, nationality, passport validity, prior Singapore history and whether any overseas processing applies. Never make unofficial payments or rely on unverified documents.

Approval is determined by the relevant authorities. Jans Maid & Employment Agency cannot guarantee a Work Permit outcome or bypass eligibility requirements.

Practical summary

What to remember.

  • Direct hire begins with a helper you have already identified; it does not remove Work Permit or employer obligations.
  • The correct route depends on the helper’s location, present employment status, eligibility and document readiness.
  • Request an itemised quotation that separates paperwork assistance, mandatory costs, insurance and third-party amounts.
Direct answers

Frequently asked questions.

These answers are general. Current requirements and case-specific terms should be confirmed before you proceed.

Can I directly hire someone recommended by a relative?

Potentially, but the employer and helper must still meet current requirements and complete the applicable Singapore and source-country processes. Share the complete background with a consultant before making commitments.

Does direct hire guarantee Work Permit approval?

No. Jans Maid & Employment Agency can assist with document and process preparation, but approvals remain with the relevant authorities and third parties.

Is direct hire always cheaper than agency matching?

Not necessarily. Candidate sourcing may not be required, but mandatory processing, insurance, medical, travel and overseas-related costs may still apply. Compare an itemised quotation rather than one headline amount.

Continue reading

Related Jans Maid & Employment Agency guides.

Direct-hire assistance

See how Jans Maid & Employment Agency supports direct-hire paperwork and required arrangements.

Read guide →

Cost of hiring a helper

Separate one-time hiring costs from ongoing monthly employment expenses.

Read guide →

First-time employer guide

Prepare your household, interview plan, responsibilities and first-month routine.

Read guide →
Personal, case-specific guidance

Discuss your household needs with Jans Maid & Employment Agency.

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