Singapore employs over 250,000 foreign domestic workers (FDWs), primarily from the Philippines, Indonesia, and Myanmar. If you are an FDW in Singapore, you have specific legal protections — and it is important you know them.
Your employer must provide you with a room or a clearly defined sleeping area with reasonable privacy. You should not be made to sleep in shared spaces without consent. You are also entitled to adequate food — or a food allowance of at least $200/month.
You are entitled to one rest day per week. If you agree to work on your rest day, your employer must pay you an additional day's salary. This agreement should be in writing. You cannot be forced to give up your rest day.
Your employer is responsible for your medical expenses, including hospitalisation. They must buy you medical insurance with at least $60,000 coverage. If you fall ill, your employer cannot deduct medical costs from your salary.
Your salary must be paid within 7 days of each salary period. Your employer cannot make unauthorised deductions. You should receive your full agreed salary every month, paid into your bank account.
Your employer is not allowed to hold your passport or travel documents. This is illegal under the EFMA. If your employer takes your passport, report it to MOM immediately.
You have the right to keep your mobile phone and communicate with your family. Your employer cannot confiscate your phone or restrict your communication during rest days and non-working hours.
If your employer is not meeting these obligations, you have several options:
Under Singapore law, your employer cannot terminate your employment or send you home as retaliation for reporting a violation to MOM. If they attempt this, MOM can issue a Special Pass allowing you to remain in Singapore while the investigation proceeds.
Vera can explain your rights in Tagalog, Bahasa, Myanmar, or English — free and private.
General legal information only. Contact MOM, CDE, or a qualified lawyer for specific advice.