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Published on 3 Mar 2026 by Lami M.
At Ministry of Helpers, we sometimes hear from helpers whose Work Permits have been cancelled not because of anything they did wrong, but because their employer failed to pay the required foreign worker levy.
If this happens to you, it can feel frightening and confusing. Here’s what you need to know and what steps you should take.
Why was the permit cancelled?
In places like Singapore, employers are legally required to pay a monthly foreign worker levy to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).
If the levy is not paid on time, MOM can revoke or cancel the helper’s Work Permit. This cancellation is due to the employer’s non-compliance, not the helper’s fault.
What you should do immediately
1.Stay calm and confirm the status
Check your Work Permit status through official MOM channels or ask your employer for clarification. Do not rely only on verbal information, confirm it properly.
2.Contact MOM directly
If your permit has been cancelled, contact MOM as soon as possible. Explain your situation clearly. MOM officers can advise you on:
- Your current legal status
- Whether you can stay temporarily in Singapore
- Your options for transfer to a new employer
3.Do not overstay
Overstaying can result in serious penalties. Always follow the official instructions given by MOM regarding your stay in the country.
4.Secure your documents
Keep your passport and Work Permit card with you at all times. Do not hand over your passport to anyone unless legally required.
Can you transfer to a new employer?
In many cases, if the cancellation is due to the employer’s failure to pay the levy, MOM may allow a transfer period. During this time, you can look for a new employer.
You may:
- Contact licensed employment agencies
- Reach out to support networks
- Use trusted platforms like Ministry of Helpers to seek guidance
Act quickly, as transfer windows are usually limited.
What about unpaid salary?
If your employer also owes you salary:
- Document everything (messages, salary records, bank transfers).
- File a salary claim with MOM immediately.
- Seek help from support organisations if needed.
You have rights, and unpaid wages can be reported. You are not alone and there are steps you can take to protect yourself and move forward safely.
You might be interested in:
What to Do If You Feel Underpaid as a Long-Term Helper
How Domestic Helpers in Singapore Can Stay Safe
Is It Possible to Earn an Online Degree While Working as a Domestic Helper in Singapore?
Fair Pay for Helpers: Understanding the 2025–2026 Domestic Workers Wage Hike in the Philippines
How Do Helpers Decide Which Maid Agency or Hiring Platform to Join
At Ministry of Helpers, we sometimes hear from helpers whose Work Permits have been cancelled not because of anything they did wrong, but because their employer failed to pay the required foreign worker levy.
If this happens to you, it can feel frightening and confusing. Here’s what you need to know and what steps you should take.
Why was the permit cancelled?
In places like Singapore, employers are legally required to pay a monthly foreign worker levy to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).
If the levy is not paid on time, MOM can revoke or cancel the helper’s Work Permit. This cancellation is due to the employer’s non-compliance, not the helper’s fault.
What you should do immediately
1.Stay calm and confirm the status
Check your Work Permit status through official MOM channels or ask your employer for clarification. Do not rely only on verbal information, confirm it properly.
2.Contact MOM directly
If your permit has been cancelled, contact MOM as soon as possible. Explain your situation clearly. MOM officers can advise you on:
- Your current legal status
- Whether you can stay temporarily in Singapore
- Your options for transfer to a new employer
3.Do not overstay
Overstaying can result in serious penalties. Always follow the official instructions given by MOM regarding your stay in the country.
4.Secure your documents
Keep your passport and Work Permit card with you at all times. Do not hand over your passport to anyone unless legally required.
Can you transfer to a new employer?
In many cases, if the cancellation is due to the employer’s failure to pay the levy, MOM may allow a transfer period. During this time, you can look for a new employer.
You may:
- Contact licensed employment agencies
- Reach out to support networks
- Use trusted platforms like Ministry of Helpers to seek guidance
Act quickly, as transfer windows are usually limited.
What about unpaid salary?
If your employer also owes you salary:
- Document everything (messages, salary records, bank transfers).
- File a salary claim with MOM immediately.
- Seek help from support organisations if needed.
You have rights, and unpaid wages can be reported. You are not alone and there are steps you can take to protect yourself and move forward safely.
You might be interested in:
What to Do If You Feel Underpaid as a Long-Term Helper
How Domestic Helpers in Singapore Can Stay Safe
Is It Possible to Earn an Online Degree While Working as a Domestic Helper in Singapore?
Fair Pay for Helpers: Understanding the 2025–2026 Domestic Workers Wage Hike in the Philippines
How Do Helpers Decide Which Maid Agency or Hiring Platform to Join