Frequently asked questions

Answers for employers searching for a maid in Singapore on SmartMaid.com.sg.

What is SmartMaid.com.sg?

A Singapore smart maid search platform — browse licensed-agency profiles, shortlist Filipino, Indonesian, Myanmar and transfer helpers, then WhatsApp, Send Enquiry, or submit one request to all agencies.

Is SmartMaid.com.sg a maid agency?

SmartMaid is a maid search platform that brings biodata from licensed agencies into one place. WhatsApp, Send Enquiry, and Submit Request go to the licensed agency (or every active agency for broadcast requests). Salaries, fees, contracts, and MOM Work Permit steps are handled by the agency you choose.

How do I search or find a maid in Singapore?

Start on maid search — filter by nationality, skills and transfer status, or open Filipino, Indonesian, Myanmar and transfer maid pages. Shortlist favourites, then enquire with the publishing agency. Prefer filters? Use the sidebar on maid search; prefer AI? Describe your household in plain English.

How do I hire a maid in Singapore (including first time)?

Confirm MOM employer eligibility, decide transfer vs overseas new hire, shortlist biodata on SmartMaid, interview through a licensed agency, then that agency applies for the Work Permit. Read our first-time employer guide in the articles section for the full checklist. Verify current rules on mom.gov.sg.

What is Submit Request?

One form with your requirements (nationality, skills, budget, etc.) sent to every active agency on SmartMaid.com.sg. Agencies reply to you directly — best when you have not picked a specific helper yet.

How do I enquire about a maid?

On any listing: tap WhatsApp (listing link included) or Send Enquiry. For a broadcast request to all agencies, use Submit Request in the header or footer.

Are all maids on SmartMaid.com.sg available immediately?

Published biodata shows helpers agencies are actively offering. Availability changes quickly — confirm timing, transfer status, and deployment with the agency before making decisions.

What is the difference between a transfer maid and a new hire?

A transfer maid is already in Singapore and may be available sooner. A new hire is recruited from overseas and typically takes longer because of selection, permits, travel, and mandatory programmes. See our employer guides for a detailed comparison.

How do I find a transfer maid in Singapore?

Use SmartMaid transfer maid search — filter by nationality, skills, and experience, compare biodata, shortlist favourites, then enquire with the licensed agency that published each profile. See our transfer maid guide for MOM steps.

Who sets salaries and agency fees?

Salaries and fees are agreed between employer and agency/helper within MOM rules and market practice. Biodata may show indicative ranges — confirm final amounts with your agency. SmartMaid does not set or invent fees.

Where can I read about MOM rules and hiring steps?

SmartMaid publishes employer guides in the articles section. Official requirements are always on mom.gov.sg — check there before applying for a Work Permit.

What is the MOM EA directory?

The MOM employment agency (EA) directory lists every licensed maid agency in Singapore. Verify an agency's licence at mom.gov.sg before you hire, then browse that agency's biodata on SmartMaid.

What is a biodata?

A biodata is the helper profile a licensed agency publishes — skills, experience, nationality, and transfer vs new-hire status. Compare on SmartMaid, then confirm details with the agency before you hire.

What do Ex-Singapore, Transfer, and New mean?

Ex-Singapore means the helper worked in Singapore before. Transfer means already in Singapore and switching employer (often faster to deploy). New or Fresh means no overseas work experience is listed.

What is PDPA and why do I need to sign in?

PDPA is Singapore's Personal Data Protection Act. Some biodata details (photos, salary, age, and interview videos) may be limited for guests. A free account lets you view full profiles and save shortlists.

What are base salary, agency fee, and placement fee?

Base salary is monthly pay to the helper. Agency fee is the agency's service charge. Placement fee is a loan the helper may owe the agency — confirm all amounts with your agency before hiring.

Can agencies list maids on SmartMaid.com.sg?

Yes. Licensed maid agencies can register, create biodata, and publish profiles for employers to search. Agency accounts use a separate login from employer accounts.

What is maid levy in Singapore?

Maid levy is a monthly fee employers pay MOM for hiring a foreign domestic worker. MOM sets foreign worker levy rates (normal vs concession if you qualify). Check current rates on mom.gov.sg — salary and agency fees are separate.

How long does a transfer maid take in Singapore?

A transfer maid already in Singapore can often start within two to six weeks once you select biodata, complete interviews, and your agency processes the Work Permit transfer — timing depends on notice period and MOM processing. Confirm availability with the agency.

Still have questions? Contact us or read our employer guides.

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