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Published on 1 Sep 2025 by Tammy U.
Hiring a maid in Singapore can make daily life smoother for families, but it also comes with responsibilities. One of the most important aspects employers and helpers should understand is maid working hours in Singapore. Clear expectations and fair arrangements help create a healthier and more productive working relationship.
Is there a fixed regulation on maid working hours in Singapore?
Currently, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) does not set fixed daily working hours for Foreign Domestic Workers (FDWs). Unlike regular employees covered under the Employment Act, maids in Singapore are not entitled to regulated hours or overtime pay.
Instead, working hours are determined by the employer and the helper through mutual agreement. This makes it crucial to discuss expectations clearly at the start of employment.
Typical working hours for helpers in Singapore
While working hours vary from household to household, here’s what is commonly observed:
- Start of the day: Between 6:00 AM – 7:30 AM (especially for households with children or elderly).
- End of the day: Between 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM, depending on family needs.
- Breaks: Helpers should be given adequate rest during the day, such as after lunch or when tasks are lighter.
- Weekly rest day: Since 1 January 2023, all employers must provide at least one rest day per month that cannot be compensated with extra pay.
Why rest and fair hours matter
Working long hours without sufficient breaks can lead to fatigue, stress, and mistakes. Ensuring fair maid working hours in Singapore benefits both parties:
- For helpers: Adequate rest improves physical and mental well-being.
- For employers: A well-rested helper is more efficient, focused, and motivated.
Tips for employers to manage helper working hours
- Set clear expectations – Outline a daily schedule so tasks are organised and manageable.
- Respect rest days – Allow helpers to recharge and spend time on personal activities.
- Encourage open communication – Regularly check in to ensure your helper is comfortable with the workload.
- Use tools to manage tasks – Platforms like Ministry of Helpers provide a household scheduler that helps employers and helpers coordinate duties effectively.
Building a positive working relationship
The key to managing maid working hours in Singapore lies in balance. While helpers are expected to support the household, they also deserve respect, rest, and consideration. Employers who foster fairness not only create a better working environment but also enjoy longer-lasting and more committed employment relationships.
You might be interested in:
How to Cancel Maid Work Permit in Singapore
Staying Safe Online: Tips for Domestic Helpers to Protect Your Privacy
What to Do If Your Helper Isn’t Getting Along with Your Kids
Avoiding Scams and Bad Loans: Financial Safety for Helpers
How to Create a Monthly Budget as a Domestic Helper
Hiring a maid in Singapore can make daily life smoother for families, but it also comes with responsibilities. One of the most important aspects employers and helpers should understand is maid working hours in Singapore. Clear expectations and fair arrangements help create a healthier and more productive working relationship.
Is there a fixed regulation on maid working hours in Singapore?
Currently, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) does not set fixed daily working hours for Foreign Domestic Workers (FDWs). Unlike regular employees covered under the Employment Act, maids in Singapore are not entitled to regulated hours or overtime pay.
Instead, working hours are determined by the employer and the helper through mutual agreement. This makes it crucial to discuss expectations clearly at the start of employment.
Typical working hours for helpers in Singapore
While working hours vary from household to household, here’s what is commonly observed:
- Start of the day: Between 6:00 AM – 7:30 AM (especially for households with children or elderly).
- End of the day: Between 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM, depending on family needs.
- Breaks: Helpers should be given adequate rest during the day, such as after lunch or when tasks are lighter.
- Weekly rest day: Since 1 January 2023, all employers must provide at least one rest day per month that cannot be compensated with extra pay.
Why rest and fair hours matter
Working long hours without sufficient breaks can lead to fatigue, stress, and mistakes. Ensuring fair maid working hours in Singapore benefits both parties:
- For helpers: Adequate rest improves physical and mental well-being.
- For employers: A well-rested helper is more efficient, focused, and motivated.
Tips for employers to manage helper working hours
- Set clear expectations – Outline a daily schedule so tasks are organised and manageable.
- Respect rest days – Allow helpers to recharge and spend time on personal activities.
- Encourage open communication – Regularly check in to ensure your helper is comfortable with the workload.
- Use tools to manage tasks – Platforms like Ministry of Helpers provide a household scheduler that helps employers and helpers coordinate duties effectively.
Building a positive working relationship
The key to managing maid working hours in Singapore lies in balance. While helpers are expected to support the household, they also deserve respect, rest, and consideration. Employers who foster fairness not only create a better working environment but also enjoy longer-lasting and more committed employment relationships.
You might be interested in:
How to Cancel Maid Work Permit in Singapore
Staying Safe Online: Tips for Domestic Helpers to Protect Your Privacy
What to Do If Your Helper Isn’t Getting Along with Your Kids
Avoiding Scams and Bad Loans: Financial Safety for Helpers
How to Create a Monthly Budget as a Domestic Helper