Many Singapore employers need to arrange a security bond as part of hiring a migrant domestic worker. The bond is not the same as insurance — it is a financial guarantee linked to Work Permit conditions. This guide explains what the security bond for a maid is, when you need it, how much it is, when it can be forfeited and how it is discharged when employment ends. Official reference: MOM security bond requirements for MDWs.
What the security bond is
MOM describes the security bond as a binding pledge to pay the government if either the employer or the helper breaches the Work Permit conditions. It takes the form of a guarantee from a bank or insurance company, so in practice you buy a bond product rather than handing over cash. MOM requires a bond for each helper you employ, except Malaysian helpers.
How much is the security bond?
The bond is a fixed amount per helper set by MOM, and it is the same whichever bank or insurer you use; what differs between providers is the premium you pay for the guarantee and what else is bundled. MOM publishes the current amount on its security bond page. You cannot ask your helper to pay for the bond, and it should not be deducted from her salary.
When to buy the bond
Before your helper arrives in Singapore, MOM's steps are:
- Buy the security bond and the medical and personal accident insurance, as a package or separately.
- Ask your bank or insurer to send the bond details to MOM, which can take up to 3 working days. If the provider asks for her Foreign Identification Number (FIN), it is on her in-principle approval (IPA) letter or renewal invitation.
- Make sure the bond takes effect by the day she arrives, and check its status online.
- Print the security bond acknowledgement letter from WP Online and give your helper a copy.
Timing matters: according to MOM, if the bond is not in effect when she lands, she will not be allowed to enter Singapore, and the effective date cannot be changed after the fact. Most employers let the agency coordinate this with the insurance package.
How employers typically arrange the bond
Bonds are usually bought through insurers as part of a helper insurance package, or as a banker's guarantee. Your agency normally explains the options during onboarding. When comparing packages, check the insurance coverage as well as the bond premium, and ask whether the insurer includes a waiver of counter-indemnity (which limits what the insurer can recover from you if the bond is called).
When the bond may be forfeited
MOM lists situations in which the bond may be forfeited, including:
- You or your helper breaches a Work Permit or security bond condition
- Her salary is not paid on time
- She is not sent home when her Work Permit expires, is revoked or is cancelled
- She goes missing
MOM also explains that an employer is not held liable for the helper's own violations if the employer can show that she was told about the Work Permit conditions and that the violation was reported as soon as the employer found out. In practice, that means briefing her on the conditions (the agency and the Settling-in Programme cover these), keeping a record that you did, and acting promptly if something goes wrong.
When claims may arise
Claims relate to the breaches MOM defines. Employers reduce the risk by keeping the Work Permit valid, paying salary on time, keeping salary records, and arranging proper repatriation when employment ends.
Release after employment ends
According to MOM, you are discharged from the bond only when all three conditions are met: the Work Permit has been cancelled, the helper has returned home, and no bond condition was breached. The bond is then usually discharged about a week after she leaves Singapore, and MOM notifies you by post. If she is transferring to a new employer instead of going home, the new employer buys a new bond for the new Work Permit, and your agency will explain how the handover works. Keep the cancellation records, flight details and final salary settlement together in case questions come up later.
Security bond vs insurance
| Security bond | Medical and personal accident insurance | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | A guarantee to the government tied to Work Permit conditions | Cover for her hospital bills and accidents |
| Who it protects | Ensures employer and helper obligations are met | Protects the helper, and the employer from large medical bills |
| Who pays | The employer (not the helper) | The employer |
| Where to buy | Bank or insurer | Insurer, often bundled with the bond |
FAQ
Do I need a security bond for a Malaysian helper?
MOM exempts Malaysian helpers from the security bond. Insurance requirements still apply.
Can the bond cost be passed to the helper?
MOM states that you cannot ask your helper to pay for the security bond.
What happens to the bond when she transfers to another employer?
The new employer arranges a bond for the new Work Permit. Your agency can explain the timing of the cancellation and transfer.
How do I know the bond has been discharged?
MOM notifies you by post once the conditions are met, usually about a week after she has left Singapore.
Related: Work Permit checklist · maid cost in Singapore · salary and total cost guide · first-time employer guide.
Confirm current bond requirements on mom.gov.sg; amounts and products change.
Last reviewed: September 2026.
