BLOG
Published on 21 Aug 2024 by Diane U.
In Singapore, employing foreign domestic workers (FDWs) come with certain responsibilities and requirements. Understanding the Essential Orientation Programme (EOP) and Settling-In Program (SIP) is important for both employers and domestic helpers to maintain a smooth and compliant employment relationship.
What is EOP?
The Essential Orientation Programme (EOP) is a mandatory course for first-time employers of foreign domestic workers in Singapore. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) requires employers to complete this program to ensure they understand their roles and responsibilities when hiring a domestic helper.
Attending the EOP is mandatory at least 2 working days before you submit a Work Permit application. The cost for the classroom EOP ranges from $35 to $60, while the online version is priced at $35.
The programme is tailored for first-time employers and those who have changed more than three MDWs within a year, with specific attendance requirements outlined for each case. For the best learning experience, it's recommended to participate in the classroom EOP, as it offers valuable case studies and personal insights to better prepare you for working effectively with your MDW.
Key topics covered in the EOP include:
- Employer’s Responsibilities: Understanding legal obligations, such as providing a safe working environment and respecting employment terms.
- Employment Regulations: Familiarity with work permit conditions and procedures.
- Communication and Conflict Resolution: Learning effective communication techniques and strategies for resolving conflicts with domestic helpers.
You may also appoint a representative or sponsor to attend on your behalf under certain conditions. This option is available if you suffer from a chronic medical condition, have a physical disability, are 60 years or older with physical discomfort, or are a new or expectant mother with delivery dates close to your application.
Your representative or sponsor must be over 21 and can be someone who has previously attended the EOP or has experience in employing MDWs. After your representative or sponsor attends the EOP, you or a third-party, such as an employment agency, must apply online to formally appoint them.
Be prepared to provide your Singpass, personal details, and those of your representative, as well as any relevant agency contact information. Ensure that all names and identification numbers match those used during the EOP registration.
Completing the EOP helps employers build a positive working relationship with their helper and ensures compliance with Singapore's employment laws.
What is an EOP Exemption?
An EOP exemption allows certain employers to bypass the mandatory orientation program. This exemption is typically granted to those who have prior experience employing a foreign domestic worker or those who meet specific criteria set by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). The goal is to streamline the process for experienced employers who are already familiar with the rules and responsibilities of hiring an FDW.
What is the Settling-In Programme?
The Settling-In Programme is a one-day orientation course aimed at familiarising first-time MDWs with working and living conditions in Singapore.
The mandatory 1-day orientation for first-time migrant domestic workers (MDWs) costs $76.40 (including GST) and is covered by the MDW's employer, is designed to help them understand safety precautions and adjust to their new environment.
The program covers several critical areas:
- Adapting to Singapore: Guidance on adjusting to the cultural and environmental changes.
- Conditions of Employment: Overview of employment terms and rights.
- Working Safely: Essential safety precautions and workplace practices.
- Relationship and Stress Management: Tips for maintaining healthy relationships and managing stress.
How to Register
- Ensure you register your MDW for the SIP within 7 days of her arrival in Singapore, excluding Sundays and public holidays.
**Note that your MDW cannot attend the SIP on the day of her arrival. Ensure she has sufficient time to rest before the training.
- Select an accredited training provider to register for the SIP.
- Contact your chosen training provider to complete the registration process. You can do this online, by phone, or via email.
- Ensure you receive confirmation of the training slot for your MDW. Keep this information for reference.
- Make sure your MDW is prepared for the SIP by allowing her to rest and review any pre-training materials provided by the training provider.
Documents Required for SIP:
When your MDW attends the SIP training centre, ensure you bring the following documents:
- In-Principle Approval (IPA) Letter: Full set
- MDW’s Passport
- Copy of MDW’s Educational Certificate
- Copy of MDW’s Digital Arrival Card issued by ICA
Whether you are an employer hiring a domestic helper for the first time or an FDW preparing to work in Singapore, taking part in the EOP and SIP will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed for a successful employment experience.
To simplify hiring a maid in Singapore, Ministry of Helpers offers Concierge Services that can schedule EOP and SIP for you, as well as handle the paperwork and travel arrangements for you. Contact us today to get a free quotation!
You Might Be Interested In:
What is Certificate of Employment Intermediaries (CEI)?
Common Challenges and Solutions in Hiring Domestic Workers in Singapore
Your Essential Guide to Singapore's Domestic Helper Levy
Ministry of Helpers: Better Connections Make Better Homes
Unlocking Opportunities: Free Domestic Helper Classes in Singapore
In Singapore, employing foreign domestic workers (FDWs) come with certain responsibilities and requirements. Understanding the Essential Orientation Programme (EOP) and Settling-In Program (SIP) is important for both employers and domestic helpers to maintain a smooth and compliant employment relationship.
What is EOP?
The Essential Orientation Programme (EOP) is a mandatory course for first-time employers of foreign domestic workers in Singapore. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) requires employers to complete this program to ensure they understand their roles and responsibilities when hiring a domestic helper.
Attending the EOP is mandatory at least 2 working days before you submit a Work Permit application. The cost for the classroom EOP ranges from $35 to $60, while the online version is priced at $35.
The programme is tailored for first-time employers and those who have changed more than three MDWs within a year, with specific attendance requirements outlined for each case. For the best learning experience, it's recommended to participate in the classroom EOP, as it offers valuable case studies and personal insights to better prepare you for working effectively with your MDW.
Key topics covered in the EOP include:
- Employer’s Responsibilities: Understanding legal obligations, such as providing a safe working environment and respecting employment terms.
- Employment Regulations: Familiarity with work permit conditions and procedures.
- Communication and Conflict Resolution: Learning effective communication techniques and strategies for resolving conflicts with domestic helpers.
You may also appoint a representative or sponsor to attend on your behalf under certain conditions. This option is available if you suffer from a chronic medical condition, have a physical disability, are 60 years or older with physical discomfort, or are a new or expectant mother with delivery dates close to your application.
Your representative or sponsor must be over 21 and can be someone who has previously attended the EOP or has experience in employing MDWs. After your representative or sponsor attends the EOP, you or a third-party, such as an employment agency, must apply online to formally appoint them.
Be prepared to provide your Singpass, personal details, and those of your representative, as well as any relevant agency contact information. Ensure that all names and identification numbers match those used during the EOP registration.
Completing the EOP helps employers build a positive working relationship with their helper and ensures compliance with Singapore's employment laws.
What is an EOP Exemption?
An EOP exemption allows certain employers to bypass the mandatory orientation program. This exemption is typically granted to those who have prior experience employing a foreign domestic worker or those who meet specific criteria set by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). The goal is to streamline the process for experienced employers who are already familiar with the rules and responsibilities of hiring an FDW.
What is the Settling-In Programme?
The Settling-In Programme is a one-day orientation course aimed at familiarising first-time MDWs with working and living conditions in Singapore.
The mandatory 1-day orientation for first-time migrant domestic workers (MDWs) costs $76.40 (including GST) and is covered by the MDW's employer, is designed to help them understand safety precautions and adjust to their new environment.
The program covers several critical areas:
- Adapting to Singapore: Guidance on adjusting to the cultural and environmental changes.
- Conditions of Employment: Overview of employment terms and rights.
- Working Safely: Essential safety precautions and workplace practices.
- Relationship and Stress Management: Tips for maintaining healthy relationships and managing stress.
How to Register
- Ensure you register your MDW for the SIP within 7 days of her arrival in Singapore, excluding Sundays and public holidays.
**Note that your MDW cannot attend the SIP on the day of her arrival. Ensure she has sufficient time to rest before the training.
- Select an accredited training provider to register for the SIP.
- Contact your chosen training provider to complete the registration process. You can do this online, by phone, or via email.
- Ensure you receive confirmation of the training slot for your MDW. Keep this information for reference.
- Make sure your MDW is prepared for the SIP by allowing her to rest and review any pre-training materials provided by the training provider.
Documents Required for SIP:
When your MDW attends the SIP training centre, ensure you bring the following documents:
- In-Principle Approval (IPA) Letter: Full set
- MDW’s Passport
- Copy of MDW’s Educational Certificate
- Copy of MDW’s Digital Arrival Card issued by ICA
Whether you are an employer hiring a domestic helper for the first time or an FDW preparing to work in Singapore, taking part in the EOP and SIP will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed for a successful employment experience.
To simplify hiring a maid in Singapore, Ministry of Helpers offers Concierge Services that can schedule EOP and SIP for you, as well as handle the paperwork and travel arrangements for you. Contact us today to get a free quotation!
You Might Be Interested In:
What is Certificate of Employment Intermediaries (CEI)?
Common Challenges and Solutions in Hiring Domestic Workers in Singapore
Your Essential Guide to Singapore's Domestic Helper Levy
Ministry of Helpers: Better Connections Make Better Homes
Unlocking Opportunities: Free Domestic Helper Classes in Singapore