End of Contract for Your Helper in Singapore 2026
Your helper's contract is ending in three months, and suddenly you're drowning in questions. Do you renew? What if she wants to leave? What does MOM actually require? And what happens if you do nothing?
Take a breath — you're not alone. Every two years, thousands of Singapore families face this exact same moment, and most of them scramble because no one gave them a clear, step-by-step playbook. Until now.
• Standard FDW contracts are 2 years, renewable by mutual agreement.
• You must notify MOM at least 2 weeks before the contract expiry date.
• Repatriation costs are your responsibility unless otherwise agreed in writing.
• Renewal fees: $200–$500 for admin, medical, and insurance top-up.
• If you don't renew, you must arrange departure within 30 days of contract expiry.
• Early termination triggers transfer fees or full repatriation — plan ahead.
What MOM Says About Contract Expiry
The Ministry of Manpower requires every foreign domestic worker (FDW) in Singapore to hold a valid work permit tied to a specific employer. When your helper's 2-year contract expires, that work permit expires with it. If you do nothing — no renewal, no transfer, no new application — your helper loses her legal right to work in Singapore.
MOM's rule is straightforward: you must notify them at least two weeks before the contract expiry date. You can do this through the MOM Work Permit Online (WPOL) system or your employment agency. If you fail to notify MOM, the work permit may be automatically cancelled, and your helper could be deemed an overstayer — which carries serious penalties for both of you.
The good news? Renewing is simple if you plan ahead. The hard part isn't the paperwork — it's making the right decision for your household before the clock runs out.
Your 4 Options When the Contract Ends
When your helper's contract approaches its expiry, you have four realistic paths. Each one has different costs, timelines, and implications for your household.
Option 1: Renew the Contract
This is the most common path if you're happy with your helper. Renewal means extending her stay for another 2 years under the same employer. You'll need to update her medical insurance, pay the renewal admin fee, and ensure her medical exam is current. The process is relatively painless — most agencies handle it for $200–$500, and the whole thing takes 1–2 weeks.
Renewal makes sense when: your helper is performing well, your family situation hasn't changed (still need childcare, elderly care, or household support), and you want to avoid the disruption and cost of finding someone new.
Option 2: Transfer to Another Employer
If your family no longer needs a helper — perhaps the kids are older, or you've moved to a smaller place — you can arrange a transfer. Your helper moves to a new employer before or after her contract ends. Transfers are common in Singapore and generally straightforward, but you'll need to coordinate with the new employer or an agency to handle the work permit paperwork.
Important: if your helper still has an outstanding loan (the placement fee she's repaying from her salary), the transfer arrangement must address who absorbs the remaining balance. Always get this in writing.
Option 3: Repatriate to Home Country
If neither renewal nor transfer is an option, you're responsible for arranging your helper's return to her home country. MOM requires you to bear the repatriation costs unless you have a written agreement stating otherwise. This typically includes the flight ticket, any outstanding salary, and a reasonable window for her to settle affairs.
Don't leave this to the last minute. Flight bookings, visa arrangements for transit countries (if needed), and last-minute medical clearances all take time. Start planning at least 4 weeks before the expiry date.
Option 4: Apply for a New Helper
If your current helper is leaving but you still need one, you can apply for a new work permit while arranging the departure of your current helper. This is essentially a fresh start — new biodata, new interview, new contract. The upside: a fresh helper brings no outstanding loan, no bad habits, and potentially new skills. The downside: you're starting the onboarding process all over again.
Cost Comparison: What Each Option Actually Costs
Option | Typical Cost (2026) | Timeline | Best For
Renew Contract | $200–$500 (admin + medical + insurance) | 1–2 weeks | Happy with current helper
Transfer Helper | $0–$300 (agency fee, if used) | 2–4 weeks | No longer need a helper
Repatriate | $300–$800 (flight + admin) | 4–6 weeks | Helper wants to return home
Hire New Helper | $2,000–$4,500 (agency + placement + loan) | 4–8 weeks | Need a fresh start
How to Renew Your Helper's Contract: Step by Step
Renewal is the path most families take, so let's break it down properly.
Step 1: Check the timeline
Start planning at least 3 months before the contract expires. This gives you time to negotiate salary, arrange medical exams, and update insurance without rushing.
Step 2: Discuss salary and terms
Before you renew, sit down with your helper and discuss what's changing. Is she expecting a salary increment? Will her duties change? Will you adjust her rest day arrangement? These conversations are easier to have early, and they prevent resentment from building up during the second contract.
Step 3: Arrange the medical exam
Your helper needs a valid medical examination before MOM will approve the renewal. This is the same 6ME (six-monthly medical examination) that MOM requires for all FDWs. Your agency can arrange it, or you can visit an MOM-registered clinic directly. Budget $50–$80 for the exam.
Step 4: Update insurance
Your helper's insurance must be valid for the full duration of the renewed contract. Most insurers offer a top-up policy for the second 2-year period. Shop around — premiums vary significantly between providers. Budget $250–$400 for comprehensive coverage.
Step 5: Submit to MOM
Your agency or you (via WPOL) submits the renewal application. MOM typically processes it within 5–7 working days. Once approved, the new work permit is issued and your helper can continue working without interruption.
Renewal Timeline at a Glance
When | What to Do | Who Does It
3 months before | Discuss salary/terms with helper | You + helper
2 months before | Arrange medical exam | Agency or MOM clinic
6 weeks before | Shop for insurance renewal | You or agency
1 month before | Submit renewal to MOM via WPOL | Agency or you
2 weeks before | Confirm approval, update documents | Agency
Expiry date | New work permit active, all done | —
5 Red Flags to Watch For
The agency charges hidden "renewal processing fees" above $500 — standard renewal shouldn't cost more than $300–$500 all-in.
Your helper insists on a salary that's significantly above market rate for her experience level — negotiate fairly but don't overpay out of guilt.
She mentions wanting to "go home first and come back" — this usually means she wants to transfer to another employer while still under your work permit. Get clarity.
The agency suggests renewing without a medical exam — this violates MOM rules and puts you at risk.
She asks to change her job scope entirely (e.g., from cooking to elderly care) without discussion — this needs proper planning and possibly additional training.
What If Your Helper Wants to Leave Before Contract Ends?
Sometimes the contract isn't the issue — your helper wants out before it's up. This could be for personal reasons, homesickness, a better offer from another employer, or simply because the arrangement isn't working. Whatever the reason, MOM has clear rules about early termination.
If your helper gives notice to resign, MOM requires a minimum notice period (usually 1 month, unless your contract specifies otherwise). During this period, she continues working and you continue paying her full salary. She cannot simply walk out — doing so would breach her work permit conditions.
If you decide to let her go early, you're responsible for repatriation costs and any outstanding salary. The agency may also charge a transfer or early termination fee. Always document everything in writing — verbal agreements are hard to enforce under MOM's framework.
4 Tips for a Smooth Contract Transition
1. Start the conversation early
Don't wait until the last month to ask your helper if she wants to renew. Most helpers appreciate knowing their plans 3–6 months in advance — it reduces anxiety and gives you time to find a replacement if needed.
2. Put everything in writing
Salary, duties, rest days, food allowance — whatever you agree on for the next contract, write it down. A simple document signed by both parties prevents misunderstandings later. MOM recommends having a clear employment contract, and it protects both you and your helper.
3. Budget for the transition
Whether you're renewing, transferring, or hiring fresh, there are costs involved. Set aside $500–$1,000 for a smooth transition. This covers medical exams, insurance, agency fees, and any administrative costs. If you're hiring fresh, budget significantly more — placement fees alone can run $2,000–$4,500.
4. Don't burn bridges
Your helper is a person, not a revolving door. If the arrangement ends, part on good terms. Write a reference letter if she's been a good worker. Help with her transition. This isn't just kind — it's practical. You might need a recommendation from her for your next hire, and the domestic helper community in Singapore is smaller than you think.
Common Mistakes Employers Make
Waiting until the last 2 weeks to start renewal paperwork — this creates unnecessary stress and risks a gap in coverage.
Not checking if the helper still has an outstanding loan before arranging a transfer — this can cause financial disputes.
Assuming renewal is automatic — MOM requires active notification, and the work permit lapses if you don't act.
Skipping the medical exam to save time — MOM can reject the renewal and you'll face penalties.
Giving a verbal "yes, we'll renew" without formalising the terms — get it in writing for everyone's protection.
The Bottom Line
Your helper's contract ending isn't a crisis — it's a planning moment. Start early, know your options, and communicate clearly. Whether you renew, transfer, or start fresh, the key is giving yourself enough time to make the right decision without panic.
If you're unsure which path is best for your family, talk to your agency. A good agency will walk you through the options honestly, without pressuring you into a decision that doesn't suit your household.
Need help planning your helper's contract transition? Contact iHome Agency in Punggol — we've guided hundreds of families through renewals, transfers, and fresh hires, and we'll help you find the right path for yours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I don't renew my helper's contract?
If you don't renew and don't arrange a transfer or repatriation, your helper's work permit expires and she loses her legal right to work in Singapore. You are responsible for arranging her departure within 30 days. Failure to do so can result in penalties and potential legal issues under MOM regulations.
How much does it cost to renew a domestic helper's contract in Singapore?
Renewal typically costs $200–$500, covering administrative fees, a medical exam ($50–$80), and insurance renewal ($250–$400 for comprehensive coverage). The total depends on your insurance provider and whether you use an agency to handle the paperwork.
Can I renew my helper's contract for more than 2 years?
Standard work permits are issued for 2 years at a time, renewable up to a maximum of 14 years for experienced helpers. Each renewal is a fresh 2-year period, and MOM requires a medical exam and valid insurance for each period. There's no limit to how many times you can renew, as long as the requirements are met.
What if my helper wants to leave before the contract ends?
Your helper can resign by giving the required notice period (usually 1 month). During the notice period, she continues working and you pay her full salary. After that, you must arrange repatriation within 30 days unless a transfer is agreed upon. Always document the notice in writing.
Do I need to pay an end-of-contract bonus?
There is no legal requirement under MOM regulations to pay an end-of-contract bonus. However, many employers offer a goodwill bonus — typically one month's salary — as a gesture of appreciation. It's not mandatory, but it's common practice and can help maintain a positive relationship.
Can I transfer my helper to another employer before her contract ends?
Yes, MOM allows transfers. The new employer must apply for a new work permit, and the transfer must be completed before the current work permit expires. If your helper has an outstanding loan, the transfer arrangement must address how the remaining balance is handled. Always get the financial terms in writing before proceeding.
