In Singapore, employing a foreign domestic helper comes with important legal and administrative responsibilities. One of the core maid insurance requirements in 2026 is that employers must purchase valid maid insurance before a helper is allowed to start work. This requirement, set by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), ensures continuous protection for both employers and domestic helpers.
Maid insurance must be arranged at specific stages of employment—whether hiring a new helper from overseas, renewing an existing helper’s Work Permit, or transferring a helper already in Singapore. Having the correct coverage in place on time helps employers meet MOM regulations and ensures protection against accidents, illness, or unexpected events throughout the employment period.
At ECICS, we understand how important it is to feel confident when welcoming a helper into your home. With the right maid insurance, employers can focus on building a positive working relationship, knowing their helper is protected and that legal requirements are met.
Maid insurance is a compulsory insurance policy required by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) for all employers of foreign domestic helpers. It is designed to protect both parties by covering common risks during employment.
Typical maid insurance coverage includes:
MOM sets clear requirements on what maid insurance Singapore policies must include. These requirements ensure that helpers receive proper medical care and that employers are financially protected if something unexpected happens.
Under the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) regulations, employers must meet specific maid insurance requirements when hiring or renewing a foreign domestic helper’s employment. These requirements are designed to ensure adequate medical protection for helpers while safeguarding employers from significant financial risk.
Medical Insurance is a compulsory component of maid insurance in Singapore and is intended to cover major healthcare expenses during employment.
Note: Some insurers, including ECICS, offer optional add-ons such as a waiver of co-payment to reduce the employer’s out-of-pocket expenses.
Personal Accident Insurance provides financial protection for helpers or their families in the event of serious injury or death.
Employers of non-Malaysian domestic helpers are required to furnish a security bond to MOM.
Pro-Tip: Some policies include optional security bond protection riders that limit the employer’s liability in such situations.
MOM also specifies how long maid insurance policies must remain valid.
These structured requirements ensure continuous coverage throughout the helper’s employment period and help employers remain compliant with MOM regulations.
For the most up-to-date details, employers are encouraged to refer to MOM’s official guidelines, as requirements may be updated over time.
Having proper maid insurance offers clear benefits for employers and helpers alike:
With the right policy, maid insurance becomes a safeguard for everyone involved.
To comply with MOM regulations, the timing and effective date of maid insurance depend on the helper’s employment situation. The table below summarises the key requirements.
For the most up-to-date and detailed guidance, employers may also refer directly to MOM’s official guidelines on maid insurance and Work Permit requirements.
ECICS insurance is a trusted name in Singapore’s insurance landscape. As a locally established insurer, we understand the real concerns employers face and design our plans to address them simply and clearly.
Our ECICS maid insurance plans are created with everyday employers in mind. We focus on:
Compared to many other providers, our approach is practical and straightforward. We prioritise ease of purchase, clear terms, and dependable service. This balance of convenience, affordability, and reliability is why many employers consider ECICS a trusted choice for maid insurance.
Our ECICS maid insurance plans are designed to meet MOM requirements while offering meaningful protection beyond the basics.
Because of this balanced and comprehensive protection, many employers view ECICS as among the best maid insurance available in Singapore.
When selecting the best maid insurance available in Singapore, employers should look beyond price alone. A good policy should be easy to understand, reliable, and supportive when issues arise.
Key factors to consider include:
Higher coverage can help prevent out-of-pocket expenses during serious situations. It is important to ensure medical, accident, and security bond limits meet MOM requirements and are enough to cover real medical or emergency costs.
A simple and clear claim process makes a big difference during stressful times. When instructions are easy to follow and support is available, employers can submit claims confidently without confusion or delays.
While affordable premiums are important, the cheapest option may not always be the best. A good maid insurance plan should balance cost with proper coverage, so you are protected beyond just the minimum legal requirements.
Good customer service provides reassurance when you need help. Responsive and knowledgeable support helps answer questions quickly and ensures smoother handling of claims or policy changes.
When purchasing maid insurance in Singapore, employers usually have two options. You can buy directly from an insurer or purchase through an employment agency. Both options are allowed, but understanding the differences helps you make a more informed decision.
Buying directly from an insurer gives you better visibility into your policy. You deal with the insurance provider directly, which allows you to understand your coverage, policy terms, and claim process clearly. This can be especially helpful if you prefer transparency and direct support.
Purchasing through an agency can be convenient, as insurance is often bundled with other employment services. However, employers may have less visibility into policy details and fewer opportunities to compare coverage options.
At ECICS, we focus on these areas to deliver dependable coverage. This is why many employers consider our plans among the best maid insurance Singapore solutions, offering both compliance and confidence.
Buying or renewing ECICS maid insurance online is designed to be simple and convenient.
Choose between 14-month or 26-month coverage.
• Tip: Opt for the 26-month plan if you are hiring for a full 2-year contract; it is more cost-effective and meets the mandatory 2-month buffer required by MOM.
Have these ready to ensure a 5-minute checkout:
• Employer Details: NRIC/FIN and contact info.
• Helper Details: Full name (as in Passport), Passport Number, Date of Birth, and Nationality.
• Work Permit Info: Use the In-Principle Approval (IPA) number for new helpers or the FIN/Work Permit number for renewals.
In 2026, many employers look for these specific ECICS options:
• Waiver of Co-payment: Covers the 25% share you’d otherwise pay for large hospital bills.
• Security Bond Protector: Reduces your $5,000 bond liability to just $250.
Fill in the digital form and pay via Credit/Debit card or PayNow.
Once payment is successful:
• You will receive your Policy Schedule and Certificate of Insurance via email.
• The Critical Step: ECICS will automatically transmit your security bond and insurance details to MOM.
"Pro" Tips:
How much does maid insurance cost in Singapore?
The cost varies depending on coverage level and policy duration. Basic plans are more affordable, while comprehensive plans offer wider protection at a higher premium.
What’s the difference between basic and comprehensive maid insurance plans?
Basic plans meet minimum MOM requirements, while comprehensive plans offer higher coverage limits and added benefits for medical care and personal accidents.
Can I transfer maid insurance to a new helper?
In most cases, maid insurance is tied to the specific helper. A new policy is usually required when hiring a new helper.
What happens if I cancel my maid insurance early?
Early cancellation may result in partial refunds, depending on the policy terms. Employers are advised to check the specific conditions of their plan before cancelling.
At ECICS, refund amounts are calculated based on how long the policy has been in force:
The ECICS “Safety Net” Bonus: As an added benefit for customers, ECICS offers a 90-Day, 100% Refund Guarantee. If a policy is cancelled within the first 90 days because the helper needs to be replaced or the Work Permit was not issued, ECICS will provide a full 100% refund, credited toward the next ECICS policy, provided no claims have been made.
Hiring a domestic helper is a significant commitment, and having the right maid insurance is a key part of responsible employment. From meeting MOM requirements to protecting both employer and helper, proper coverage provides confidence and peace of mind.
At ECICS, we are proud to support Singapore employers with clear, reliable, and practical insurance solutions. Backed by decades of experience and strong local roots, ECICS insurance continues to serve families with care and commitment.
If you are looking for dependable protection and straightforward service, ECICS maid insurance offers a trusted way to protect what matters most.