MOM does not publish a minimum number of months of passport validity for a helper's Work Permit application. What it does require: the passport details on the in-principle approval (IPA) letter must match her passport exactly, or she will be refused entry; you must tell MOM when her passport number or expiry date changes; and MOM says employers should make sure the passport stays valid for travel, or she will not be able to leave Singapore.
Before you apply
- The application in FDW eService asks for the helper's passport details, along with your and your family's particulars and your income information.
- Check with her embassy whether she needs anything extra to leave her country, such as a visa or a letter from her government. MOM flags this on its application page.
- Get her written consent to apply for the Work Permit.
Source: Apply for a Work Permit for an MDW.
When the IPA arrives
- Compare her name, date of birth and passport number on the IPA against the passport itself.
- If anything is wrong, have it corrected before she travels. MOM says a mismatch means she will be denied entry.
- Send her a copy of the IPA. She shows it to the immigration officer on arrival.
- If she needs more time to arrive, extend the IPA validity in FDW eService.
If her passport is renewed during employment
Update her new passport number or expiry date in FDW eService. MOM informs ICA, and she can use the automated immigration gates 4 working days after MOM emails you that her details are updated. See Notify MOM of changes.
Passport expiry and Work Permit renewal
MOM says the helper's passport is no longer tied to her Work Permit duration, so you can renew her Work Permit even if her passport has expired or has less than 2 years' validity. MOM still needs a record of her latest passport, and you upload the passport particulars page when renewing. See Renew a Work Permit.
Who pays for passport renewal
MOM says you are not required to pay, and that you and your helper should agree on it, ideally at the start and in the contract. It suggests employers could help with the cost out of goodwill. See MOM's FAQ on passport renewal.
Before home leave
MOM's overseas leave checklist starts with making sure she has a valid passport and takes it with her work pass. See Overseas leave for MDWs.
Related guides
- Work Permit application: employer checklist
- Employer Singpass setup before applying
- MOM Work Permit processing time
This is a practical guide, not MOM. Rules and fees change, so confirm the current position on mom.gov.sg before you act. Last reviewed: 11 October 2026.
