When Your Helper Gets Sick: A Singapore Employer's Guide to Medical Care, Insurance & Leave
Updated: Aug 16
Medical emergencies involving your helper are stressful. As an employer in Singapore you have specific legal obligations — knowing them before an emergency saves worry, money and conflict.
At a Glance: Your Legal Obligations
You must pay for outpatient treatment, hospitalisation, and prescribed medications.
Maintain valid medical insurance at all times — minimum S$60,000/year hospitalisation & surgical coverage (MOM).
Sick leave: 14 days paid outpatient + 60 days paid hospitalisation per year (MC-certified).
Clinic for minor issues (S$30–S$80); A&E for high fever >39°C, severe injury, breathing difficulty.
Insurance & Sick Leave Quick Reference
Requirement | What it covers | Notes |
MOM mandatory insurance | S$60,000/yr hospitalisation & surgery | Must cover pre-existing conditions |
Recommended extras | S$100k–200k serious illness, outpatient | Personal accident & repatriation |
Outpatient sick leave | 14 paid days/yr | MC-certified, cannot be salary-deducted |
Hospitalisation leave | 60 paid days/yr | Includes the 14 outpatient days |
Mental Health Matters Too
Helpers are at higher risk of depression and anxiety from homesickness and isolation. Watch for appetite or sleep changes, withdrawal, crying, or low energy — and seek professional help early.
Frequently Asked Questions
What medical insurance must I provide for my helper?
MOM requires a minimum S$60,000/year hospitalisation and surgical insurance from a Singapore-licensed insurer, maintained at all times. Many employers add S$100k–200k serious-illness and outpatient cover.
How much sick leave is my helper entitled to?
14 days of paid outpatient sick leave and 60 days of paid hospitalisation leave per year, MC-certified — these days cannot be deducted from salary.
Do I have to pay for my helper's hospitalisation?
Yes — employers must bear the cost of outpatient treatment, hospitalisation and prescribed medications, supported by the mandatory insurance.
When should I take my helper to A&E vs a clinic?
Clinic (S$30–S$80) for fever, flu, cuts, rashes, stomach upsets. A&E (S$150–S$500+) for fever above 39°C, severe injuries, breathing difficulty, or allergic reactions.
What if my helper shows signs of depression?
Helpers are at higher risk from homesickness and isolation. Watch for appetite or sleep changes, withdrawal or crying, and seek professional help early — early care matters.
Contact iHome Agency — WhatsApp 8042 6581 · EA Licence 26C3446 · Punggol & Northshore specialist.
