Hiring a migrant domestic worker (MDW) in Singapore involves more than just finding the right person — you are also responsible for her health, safety, and well-being. One key step in this process is securing the right insurance coverage.

At gentleHelp, we support employers through every stage — from hiring to onboarding to insurance. Here’s what you need to know about domestic helper insurance in Singapore.

Why Do You Need Helper Insurance?

Under MOM regulations, employers must bear the full cost of their helper’s medical care. To reduce financial risk and ensure your helper receives timely medical attention, MOM requires that you purchase insurance before she starts work.

What Must the Insurance Cover?

Here are the mandatory insurance requirements:

1. Medical Insurance

• Minimum annual claim limit: $60,000
• Must cover:
  • Inpatient care
  • Day surgery
• Some plans allow for proration of claims or panel-based hospital coverage — it's important to review the terms.

2. Personal Accident Insurance

• Sum assured: At least $60,000
• Provides a lump-sum payout in case of permanent disability or death due to an accident.

These protections are not just for compliance — they safeguard your helper's welfare and prevent high, unexpected medical costs for your household.

Additional Optional Coverage Employers Should Consider

While MOM sets the minimum, many insurers offer optional add-ons that can provide even greater peace of mind:

• Repatriation expenses
• Third-party liability (if your helper accidentally causes property damage or injury to others)
• Wage compensation if your helper is hospitalised and unable to work

These add-ons are particularly useful for families with young children or elderly family members who depend on the helper daily.

What Happens During a Claim?

If your helper needs medical treatment:

1. Keep all medical invoices and reports.
2. Submit claims directly to the insurer or via your agency (we can assist).
3. Claims typically take 2–4 weeks to process, depending on documentation and insurer.

Some insurers have cashless arrangements with specific hospitals — this can reduce your upfront costs significantly.

When Should You Buy or Renew the Insurance?

• Buy before arrival: Insurance must be active before your helper enters Singapore.
• Renew early: Start the renewal process at least 2–3 weeks before expiry to avoid coverage lapses or MOM non-compliance.

At gentleHelp, we offer reminders and renewal support to make this process stress-free.

Which Insurers Can You Choose?

You must buy from MOM-approved insurance providers, such as:

• NTUC Income
• MSIG
• AIG
• Great Eastern
• FWD
• Etiqa
• and more

Each insurer offers different plans — some focus on affordability, others on comprehensive protection.

Why Choose gentleHelp?

We’ve partnered with NTUC Income to offer MOM-compliant, reliable domestic helper insurance.

✅ No additional agency fee
✅ Professional guidance on choosing the right plan
✅ Seamless coordination with your helper’s arrival and permit
✅ Claims support if needed

Purchasing through gentleHelp ensures that you are covered — and that you have a team to support you every step of the way.

Final Tips for Employers

• Make sure your helper is aware of her medical coverage and how to seek help.
• Save a digital and printed copy of the policy.
• Clarify with your insurer or agency if you’re unsure about any coverage terms.

Need Help Choosing the Right Insurance Plan?

Let us handle the paperwork, liaise with the insurer, and ensure everything is in place. Whether you're hiring a new, experienced, or transfer helper, gentleHelp makes the process smooth and transparent.

📞 Contact us today or visit www.gentlehelp.com.sg to get started!

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