Some households wonder whether a helper could work part-time, or whether a part-time cleaner could replace a live-in helper. The two are regulated very differently, so it helps to compare them side by side.
A migrant domestic worker
MOM's rules state that a helper on a Work Permit:
- Works only for her employer, at the residential address declared to MOM.
- Performs only domestic chores.
- Cannot take on work with other employers, including part-time cleaning jobs.
- Lives with the family in accommodation that meets MOM's requirements.
Her employer is responsible for her salary, levy, insurance, medical care, food and a weekly rest day (with at least one rest day a month that cannot be compensated away).
A part-time cleaner
Part-time cleaning is usually arranged through a cleaning company, which employs the cleaner and handles its own work passes and payroll. You pay for the service by the hour or session, and the cleaner does not live with you.
Comparing the two
- Childcare and eldercare: a live-in helper can provide daily care; a cleaner generally cannot.
- Flexibility: a cleaning service suits small homes or couples who mainly need cleaning.
- Responsibilities: as a helper's employer you take on MOM obligations. With a cleaning service, the company does.
- Space: a helper needs a suitable sleeping area with privacy and ventilation.
Why the distinction matters
MOM treats deploying a helper to another address, or to non-domestic work, as a breach of her Work Permit conditions, with financial penalties and possible bans on employing helpers. Lending your helper to a neighbour or relative for a few hours falls into the same category unless it fits MOM's notified arrangement for caring for your child or parent at a relative's home.
If you decide a live-in helper is right for you, see our first-time employer guide and cost overview, then browse helper profiles.
Official source: MOM's employment rules page.
Questions to help you decide
- Do you need someone at home during the day for a child or an elderly parent?
- Do you have a room or space that meets MOM's accommodation requirements?
- Are you ready to manage salary, levy, rest days and records every month?
- Would a few hours of cleaning a week cover most of what you need?
If most answers point to daily care, a helper is likely the better fit; if they point to cleaning only, start with a cleaning service.
Some families start with a cleaning service and move to a live-in helper when a baby arrives or a parent needs more care.
Common questions
Can my helper clean my office once a week?
MOM limits helpers to domestic chores at the declared residential address, so office work falls outside her Work Permit.
Can I hire a helper just for weekday mornings?
A Work Permit helper lives with and works for one household. If you only need a few hours, a cleaning service is the better fit.
Last reviewed: September 2026. Procedures change, so confirm the current steps on mom.gov.sg or with your licensed employment agency.
