After your helper arrives, MOM gives you 2 weeks to send her for a medical examination by a Singapore-registered doctor. Her Work Permit can only be issued if she passes; if she does not, she has to be sent home. The same 2-week window applies to getting the permit issued. A first-time helper must also attend the Settling-in Programme within 7 days of arrival. Bring the medical examination form, and check measles immunity if there are unvaccinated children under 7 at home.
The deadlines after arrival
| Task | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Settling-in Programme (first-time helpers) | Within 7 days of arrival, excluding Sundays and public holidays; not on arrival day |
| Medical examination | Within 14 days of arrival |
| Get the Work Permit issued | Within 2 weeks of arrival |
| Fingerprint and photo registration (if the Temporary Work Permit says so) | Within 1 week of the permit being issued |
Source: Apply for a Work Permit and Settling-in Programme.
What the medical exam covers
- Screening for tuberculosis, HIV, syphilis and malaria, plus a check that she is fit to work.
- If any child in your household under 7 is not fully vaccinated against measles, she must have measles immunity.
- You can send her for extra tests if you have specific concerns, and ask the doctor for a copy of the report.
Source: Pre-employment medical examination for MDWs.
Plan the first two weeks
- Book the SIP and the clinic before she lands.
- Make sure she brings the medical examination form.
- Once she passes, get the permit issued in FDW eService ($35) and give her the Temporary Work Permit.
Related guides
- Pre-employment medical check timing
- If your helper fails medical screening
- Hiring timeline from shortlist to arrival
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.
