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Published on 28 Nov 2024 by Xyla P.
The holiday season is a time of rest and reunion for many, and this often includes domestic helpers in Singapore who may wish to visit their families abroad. As an employer, it’s important to handle this request with understanding, while also being mindful of your own needs at home. Here's a guide on how to approach this situation if your helper is asking for home leave during the holidays.
1. Understand the legal framework
Before making any decisions, it's essential to familiarise yourself with the Ministry of Manpower's (MOM) guidelines for domestic helpers. Domestic helpers working in Singapore are entitled to home leave under certain conditions, and this can vary depending on their contract.
- Work pass conditions: Helpers typically need to be employed for at least 2 years with the same employer before they are eligible for home leave. However, this may differ if your helper is on a new contract or if their previous employer had different terms.
- Leave duration: Most helpers are entitled to up to 14 days of paid leave every two years, although this could be adjusted depending on their employment contract. Any additional leave beyond this could be unpaid.
Make sure to check the specifics of your helper's work pass and contract before moving forward.
2. Plan well in advance
Holidays can be a busy time for both helpers and employers, so it’s crucial to plan well in advance. If your helper has requested home leave during the holiday season, consider the following:
- Timing: The holiday period is often one of the busiest times of year. Ensure that you give yourself ample time to make arrangements for your household during your helper's absence.
- Work schedule: Be transparent with your helper about the duration of their leave request. Some employers may prefer that their helpers take leave during less busy periods, especially if they require help during the holiday season.
Once you’ve discussed and agreed on the timing, start planning early to ensure the transition is smooth.
3. Discuss financials and payment
Your helper’s home leave request will involve a financial component. You’ll need to discuss the following:
- Leave pay: As per MOM’s guidelines, you should pay your helper for her home leave, but the pay should align with the terms outlined in her contract. Some employers may offer additional financial support for the helper's travel costs.
- Unpaid leave: If your helper requests more leave than what’s stipulated in her contract, you may have to decide whether to offer unpaid leave. Make sure this is agreed upon in writing.
Clear communication about payment for both leave and travel expenses is essential to avoid any misunderstandings.
4. Prepare for your helper’s absence
The absence of a domestic helper can impact the smooth running of your household, so it's important to plan accordingly:
- Domestic help: Consider hiring temporary help or asking a family member to assist during your helper’s time away. This can help cover any essential tasks that your helper usually handles.
- Communicate expectations: Discuss the household responsibilities with your helper before she leaves. Ensure all tasks are completed or handed over in a way that can be easily managed during her absence.
You may also want to discuss any special arrangements for the care of pets, elderly family members, or children, depending on your household situation.
5. Ensure proper documentation
Once you've agreed on the terms for home leave, make sure everything is documented in writing to avoid any future disputes. This includes:
- Leave agreement: Document the dates of leave, any financial adjustments, and any temporary arrangements you’ve made.
- Travel documents: Ensure that your helper’s passport, work pass, and any other required documentation are up to date. This is particularly important if she needs to apply for a travel visa or other permits for her home country.
6. Show appreciation and support
Home leave is an important part of maintaining a positive relationship with your helper. Recognising her dedication and allowing her to visit family can foster goodwill and loyalty. You might also want to provide support during her preparations, such as helping with travel arrangements or offering a small gift or bonus before she leaves.
In addition, remember to wish your helper a safe and enjoyable trip, showing that you care about her well-being both at work and personally.
7. Stay in touch during her absence
While your helper is on home leave, it’s important to keep communication open, especially if there are any changes to her travel plans or if she needs assistance. Ensure she feels comfortable reaching out if necessary, as this can help maintain a smooth working relationship when she returns.
Requesting home leave is a common and understandable request from domestic helpers, particularly during the festive season. By following the guidelines, planning in advance, discussing the financials, and preparing your household for her absence, you can ensure a smooth and positive experience for both you and your helper.
For more information on the terms and conditions of home leave or to better understand your obligations, feel free to reach out to Ministry of Helpers for assistance.
You might be interested in:
What You Should Know Before Hiring a Domestic Helper for the Christmas Holidays
Exploring Ministry of Helpers’ Concierge Service
Direct Hire vs. Transfer Helpers: What You Need to Know
Financial Planning Tips Before Hiring a Domestic Helper in Singapore
The holiday season is a time of rest and reunion for many, and this often includes domestic helpers in Singapore who may wish to visit their families abroad. As an employer, it’s important to handle this request with understanding, while also being mindful of your own needs at home. Here's a guide on how to approach this situation if your helper is asking for home leave during the holidays.
1. Understand the legal framework
Before making any decisions, it's essential to familiarise yourself with the Ministry of Manpower's (MOM) guidelines for domestic helpers. Domestic helpers working in Singapore are entitled to home leave under certain conditions, and this can vary depending on their contract.
- Work pass conditions: Helpers typically need to be employed for at least 2 years with the same employer before they are eligible for home leave. However, this may differ if your helper is on a new contract or if their previous employer had different terms.
- Leave duration: Most helpers are entitled to up to 14 days of paid leave every two years, although this could be adjusted depending on their employment contract. Any additional leave beyond this could be unpaid.
Make sure to check the specifics of your helper's work pass and contract before moving forward.
2. Plan well in advance
Holidays can be a busy time for both helpers and employers, so it’s crucial to plan well in advance. If your helper has requested home leave during the holiday season, consider the following:
- Timing: The holiday period is often one of the busiest times of year. Ensure that you give yourself ample time to make arrangements for your household during your helper's absence.
- Work schedule: Be transparent with your helper about the duration of their leave request. Some employers may prefer that their helpers take leave during less busy periods, especially if they require help during the holiday season.
Once you’ve discussed and agreed on the timing, start planning early to ensure the transition is smooth.
3. Discuss financials and payment
Your helper’s home leave request will involve a financial component. You’ll need to discuss the following:
- Leave pay: As per MOM’s guidelines, you should pay your helper for her home leave, but the pay should align with the terms outlined in her contract. Some employers may offer additional financial support for the helper's travel costs.
- Unpaid leave: If your helper requests more leave than what’s stipulated in her contract, you may have to decide whether to offer unpaid leave. Make sure this is agreed upon in writing.
Clear communication about payment for both leave and travel expenses is essential to avoid any misunderstandings.
4. Prepare for your helper’s absence
The absence of a domestic helper can impact the smooth running of your household, so it's important to plan accordingly:
- Domestic help: Consider hiring temporary help or asking a family member to assist during your helper’s time away. This can help cover any essential tasks that your helper usually handles.
- Communicate expectations: Discuss the household responsibilities with your helper before she leaves. Ensure all tasks are completed or handed over in a way that can be easily managed during her absence.
You may also want to discuss any special arrangements for the care of pets, elderly family members, or children, depending on your household situation.
5. Ensure proper documentation
Once you've agreed on the terms for home leave, make sure everything is documented in writing to avoid any future disputes. This includes:
- Leave agreement: Document the dates of leave, any financial adjustments, and any temporary arrangements you’ve made.
- Travel documents: Ensure that your helper’s passport, work pass, and any other required documentation are up to date. This is particularly important if she needs to apply for a travel visa or other permits for her home country.
6. Show appreciation and support
Home leave is an important part of maintaining a positive relationship with your helper. Recognising her dedication and allowing her to visit family can foster goodwill and loyalty. You might also want to provide support during her preparations, such as helping with travel arrangements or offering a small gift or bonus before she leaves.
In addition, remember to wish your helper a safe and enjoyable trip, showing that you care about her well-being both at work and personally.
7. Stay in touch during her absence
While your helper is on home leave, it’s important to keep communication open, especially if there are any changes to her travel plans or if she needs assistance. Ensure she feels comfortable reaching out if necessary, as this can help maintain a smooth working relationship when she returns.
Requesting home leave is a common and understandable request from domestic helpers, particularly during the festive season. By following the guidelines, planning in advance, discussing the financials, and preparing your household for her absence, you can ensure a smooth and positive experience for both you and your helper.
For more information on the terms and conditions of home leave or to better understand your obligations, feel free to reach out to Ministry of Helpers for assistance.
You might be interested in:
What You Should Know Before Hiring a Domestic Helper for the Christmas Holidays
Exploring Ministry of Helpers’ Concierge Service
Direct Hire vs. Transfer Helpers: What You Need to Know
Financial Planning Tips Before Hiring a Domestic Helper in Singapore