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Published on 10 Oct 2025 by Xian V.
As your employment contract in Singapore approaches its end, you may be wondering what comes next. Should you renew with your current employer, or explore new opportunities? Whatever your choice, being well-prepared for your contract renewal discussion helps ensure that your voice is heard, your needs are met, and your future goals are considered.
Here’s a helpful guide to walk you through the process step by step.
1. Know when your contract ends
Domestic helper contracts in Singapore usually last two years, so it’s important to check your exact contract end date early. Don’t wait until the last minute, start preparing three months before it expires. This gives you enough time to:
- Talk to your employer about their plans.
- Decide if you’d like to renew or move on.
- Make arrangements for travel or job transitions if needed.
Tip: You can find your employment details in your Work Permit card or MOM’s FDW eService.
2. Reflect on your work experience
Before discussing renewal, take time to reflect on your journey:
- What tasks or responsibilities have you handled well?
- What skills have you developed since starting the job?
- Are there areas where you want more training or support?
Writing these points down will help you feel confident and ready to share your thoughts clearly during the discussion.
3. Understand your rights and responsibilities
Both helpers and employers have rights and obligations under Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM) regulations. Knowing these helps you enter the conversation from an informed position.
For example:
- You are entitled to one rest day per week.
- You must have medical insurance provided by your employer.
- Employers must renew your Work Permit if both parties agree to continue the employment.
4. Communicate openly with your employer
A good discussion is built on mutual respect and honesty. Whether you’re renewing or not, maintaining a professional and kind tone can strengthen your relationship.
Here’s how to approach the conversation:
- Ask for a convenient time to talk privately.
- Express gratitude for the opportunity to work with them.
- Share your thoughts about continuing: what you’ve appreciated and what you hope can improve.
If you wish to renew, you can discuss things like:
- Salary adjustments.
- Rest day preferences.
- Training or upskilling opportunities.
If you plan to move on, give early notice so your employer has time to make new arrangements.
5. Review and update your contract details
When both parties agree to renew, make sure your new contract is clear and updated. Confirm:
- Your salary and payment schedule.
- Work duties and responsibilities.
- Rest days and annual leave.
- Duration of renewal (usually another two years).
Tip: Always sign a new employment contract and keep a copy for yourself.
6. Plan for personal and financial growth
A contract renewal is not just about continuing your job, it’s also a great opportunity to set new personal goals. Think about:
- Saving a portion of your salary every month.
- Taking online training to improve your skills.
- Planning for your long-term dreams, like buying land, building a home, or starting a small business one day.
Ministry of Helpers partners with StepUp to provide free online learning materials for helpers who want to grow their knowledge and confidence.
7. Keep a positive outlook
Even if renewal discussions don’t go exactly as planned, remember that every experience is a step forward. Whether you’re continuing with your current employer or starting fresh elsewhere, you’re gaining valuable experience that shapes your journey toward financial independence and personal success.
You might be interested in:
October Household Tips for Helpers: Deep Cleaning Before the Holiday Rush
Practical Guide for Indonesian Helpers Who Want to Work in Singapore
What Helpers Should Know Before a Transfer in Singapore
Understanding e-PMI: Why Indonesian Helpers Need It Before Working in Singapore
As your employment contract in Singapore approaches its end, you may be wondering what comes next. Should you renew with your current employer, or explore new opportunities? Whatever your choice, being well-prepared for your contract renewal discussion helps ensure that your voice is heard, your needs are met, and your future goals are considered.
Here’s a helpful guide to walk you through the process step by step.
1. Know when your contract ends
Domestic helper contracts in Singapore usually last two years, so it’s important to check your exact contract end date early. Don’t wait until the last minute, start preparing three months before it expires. This gives you enough time to:
- Talk to your employer about their plans.
- Decide if you’d like to renew or move on.
- Make arrangements for travel or job transitions if needed.
Tip: You can find your employment details in your Work Permit card or MOM’s FDW eService.
2. Reflect on your work experience
Before discussing renewal, take time to reflect on your journey:
- What tasks or responsibilities have you handled well?
- What skills have you developed since starting the job?
- Are there areas where you want more training or support?
Writing these points down will help you feel confident and ready to share your thoughts clearly during the discussion.
3. Understand your rights and responsibilities
Both helpers and employers have rights and obligations under Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM) regulations. Knowing these helps you enter the conversation from an informed position.
For example:
- You are entitled to one rest day per week.
- You must have medical insurance provided by your employer.
- Employers must renew your Work Permit if both parties agree to continue the employment.
4. Communicate openly with your employer
A good discussion is built on mutual respect and honesty. Whether you’re renewing or not, maintaining a professional and kind tone can strengthen your relationship.
Here’s how to approach the conversation:
- Ask for a convenient time to talk privately.
- Express gratitude for the opportunity to work with them.
- Share your thoughts about continuing: what you’ve appreciated and what you hope can improve.
If you wish to renew, you can discuss things like:
- Salary adjustments.
- Rest day preferences.
- Training or upskilling opportunities.
If you plan to move on, give early notice so your employer has time to make new arrangements.
5. Review and update your contract details
When both parties agree to renew, make sure your new contract is clear and updated. Confirm:
- Your salary and payment schedule.
- Work duties and responsibilities.
- Rest days and annual leave.
- Duration of renewal (usually another two years).
Tip: Always sign a new employment contract and keep a copy for yourself.
6. Plan for personal and financial growth
A contract renewal is not just about continuing your job, it’s also a great opportunity to set new personal goals. Think about:
- Saving a portion of your salary every month.
- Taking online training to improve your skills.
- Planning for your long-term dreams, like buying land, building a home, or starting a small business one day.
Ministry of Helpers partners with StepUp to provide free online learning materials for helpers who want to grow their knowledge and confidence.
7. Keep a positive outlook
Even if renewal discussions don’t go exactly as planned, remember that every experience is a step forward. Whether you’re continuing with your current employer or starting fresh elsewhere, you’re gaining valuable experience that shapes your journey toward financial independence and personal success.
You might be interested in:
October Household Tips for Helpers: Deep Cleaning Before the Holiday Rush
Practical Guide for Indonesian Helpers Who Want to Work in Singapore
What Helpers Should Know Before a Transfer in Singapore
Understanding e-PMI: Why Indonesian Helpers Need It Before Working in Singapore