Hiring a Myanmar Domestic Helper in Singapore 2026: A Complete Guide for Employers | Myanmar Maid | Best Home

Hiring a Myanmar Domestic Helper in Singapore 2026: A Complete Guide for Employers

The History and Rising Popularity of Myanmar Domestic Helpers in Singapore

Myanmar domestic helpers (also known as Myanmar MDW's or maids) have been part of Singapore’s household workforce for decades. In the early years, they were less visible compared to helpers from Indonesia or the Philippines. However, over time, Myanmar helpers have steadily built a strong reputation among Singaporean families for their resilience, adaptability, and willingness to learn.

In the past 10 to 15 years, the number of Myanmar domestic helpers in Singapore has increased significantly. Though it is wise not to generalise, employers often describe them as patient, hardworking, and respectful. Many are also open to elder care and childcare roles, making them suitable for multigenerational households. As Singapore’s population continues to age and dual-income households has become the norm, the demand for dependable domestic helpers has grown, and Myanmar helpers have become an increasingly popular choice.

Ministry of Manpower Eligibility Requirements

Before beginning any helper search, employers are reminded to check the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) eligibility requirements for employing a domestic helper in Singapore. These requirements apply regardless of nationality and include minimum age, financial capability, and the completion of the Employers’ Orientation Programme (EOP), where applicable. Ensuring eligibility upfront helps prevent unnecessary delays or complications later in the hiring process.

Understanding the Myanmar Civil War and Its Impact on Helper Supply and Salaries

Myanmar has been experiencing an ongoing civil war for several years. The prolonged instability has significantly affected the country’s economy and daily life. As a result, many Myanmar nationals have left their home country in search of overseas employment as a means of survival and to support their families.

This situation has led to a growing pool of experienced Myanmar domestic helpers globally, including in Singapore. Many helpers have worked in multiple countries or completed several contracts, gaining valuable skills in housekeeping, childcare, and elder care. With increased experience and global demand, Myanmar helpers’ basic salaries have risen steadily worldwide.

In Singapore, it is now increasingly common for fresh Myanmar domestic helpers to request a basic monthly salary of at least 500 SGD, excluding rest day compensation. Experienced Myanmar helpers typically ask for 600 SGD or more in basic salary, depending on their skillset, work history, and scope of duties.

It is important for employers to understand that Singapore does not have a minimum wage system for any categories of employees, including domestic helpers. A helper’s salary is determined by market forces, experience, and expectations from both parties. With the widespread use of social media and online communication, helpers are well-informed about prevailing salary standards across different countries.

Note: attempting to lowball a helper's basic salary is not only impractical but may also appear disrespectful, and often leads to rejection of job offers, mismatched expectations or early contract termination. Salary expectations for Myanmar helpers are expected to continue rising in the coming years.

Travel Challenges from Myanmar and the Importance of Hiring Through a Reputable Agency

While Yangon International Airport remains open for civilians traveling overseas for work, the situation on the ground in Myanmar remains volatile. Based on information from our long-established partners in Myanmar, even citizens with complete and valid documentation may be denied boarding at the airport.

It is still common for many Myanmar nationals to exit the country via alternative routes before proceeding to their final destination. These routes are often unpredictable and subject to sudden disruptions. For this reason, employers in Singapore are strongly encouraged to hire Myanmar domestic helpers through a reputable and established agency in Singapore.

Agencies with long-standing partnerships in Myanmar, such as Best Home Employment Agency Pte Ltd, are better equipped to manage these uncertainties. We work closely with trusted partners on the ground to monitor developments, verify documentation, and plan realistic deployment timelines.

Directly hiring a Myanmar helper from overseas is not advisable. Employers face a high risk that the helper may not arrive in Singapore on time, or may not arrive at all. Additionally, there has been a rise in scam runners and unlicensed online agents claiming they can assist Myanmar helpers in exiting the country and arriving in Singapore. Employers should exercise extreme caution, as many of these services disappear once payment is made.

Home Leave Risks for Existing Myanmar Helpers

For employers who already have Myanmar helpers under their employment, it is important to carefully consider the risks associated with home leave. Although we empathise deeply with Myanmar helpers who may not have returned home for many years, the situation in Myanmar remains highly unpredictable.

If a Myanmar helper returns home for leave, there is a real risk that she may be unable to exit the country again. There have been numerous cases where helpers left Singapore for home leave and were subsequently stranded in Myanmar, resulting in unexpected disruptions and significant costs for employers.

A healthier and more practical alternative may be to discuss other arrangements with your helper. There is an increasing number of employers and helpers who mutually agree for the helper to take a break and travel to a nearby country such as Malaysia, Thailand, or Indonesia at the end of a two-year contract. This allows the helper to rest and recharge without the risks associated with returning to Myanmar.

Guiding and Integrating a Newly Hired Myanmar Domestic Helper

Upon employing a Myanmar domestic helper, employers are encouraged to invest time and effort in proper guidance. When hired through a reputable agency, most Myanmar helpers will have already undergone basic training in housekeeping and caregiving before handover. However, every household is different, and adjustment takes time.

The first few weeks are especially important. Employers may need to repeat instructions or provide reminders, particularly if the helper is fresh.

Many household appliances commonly used in Singapore may be unfamiliar to helpers, such as Dyson fans, Rainbow vacuum systems, air fryers, or multi-function steamers. Clear demonstrations and safety guidance are essential.

At Best Home Employment Agency Pte Ltd, our exclusive local training programme provides hands-on exposure for newly arrived helpers. Helpers are trained to use a wide range of modern household devices before deployment, helping to reduce accidents and shorten the adjustment period once they enter an employer’s home.

Language Proficiency and Communication with Myanmar Helpers

The English proficiency of Myanmar domestic helpers has improved noticeably over the years, largely due to increased access to smartphones, online videos, and social media. Many helpers learn conversational English by watching movies or online content even before arriving in Singapore.

That said, helpers often provide feedback that Singaporean employers tend to speak very quickly, which can lead to misunderstandings, especially during the initial adjustment phase. Employers are advised to slow down their speech, use simple sentences, and demonstrate tasks physically where possible during the first few weeks. Clear and patient communication builds confidence and helps helpers adapt more smoothly to their new environment.

MOM Regulations and Employer Responsibilities

All employers of domestic helpers in Singapore must strictly adhere to MOM regulations and work permit conditions. These include providing acceptable accommodation, timely salary payment, weekly rest days or compensation, and ensuring the helper’s safety and well-being.

Any breach of these regulations may result in investigations by MOM, and in more serious cases, involvement of the Singapore Police Force. Employers who are found guilty of infringements may face penalties, including fines, suspension, or permanent bans from employing domestic helpers in the future. Understanding and fulfilling these responsibilities is essential for a lawful and sustainable employment relationship.

Why Choose Best Home Employment Agency Pte Ltd for Hiring Myanmar Helpers and Other Maid Services

Best Home Employment Agency Pte Ltd is a trusted name in Singapore with decades of experience in placing Myanmar domestic helpers.

Our long-established partnerships in Myanmar allow us to navigate complex and evolving situations on the ground, ensuring higher success rates and realistic timelines.

Beyond full-time domestic helper placements, we also offer comprehensive part-time maid services for households that require flexible cleaning or laundry support. Our part-time services are ideal for families who do not require a live-in helper but still need an extra pair of hands for domestic chores.

For employers seeking peace of mind, proper guidance, and ethical recruitment practices, Best Home Employment Agency Pte Ltd provides end-to-end support, from consultation and matching to training and post-placement care.

Whether you are hiring a Myanmar domestic helper for the first time or exploring part-time maid services, our team is committed to supporting both employers and helpers for long-term success.