Domestic Helper Transfer, Renewal and Cancellation Guide

Reviewed against official guidance on 8 September 2026. Prepared by the Little Big Employment Agency editorial team.

A helper’s employment does not move to a new household simply because both families agree. Align the formal pass transaction with the actual employment dates.

Transferring directly to another employer

The new employer requests the current employer’s consent through the FDW eService. The helper’s six-monthly examination must be up to date, and the initial transfer steps should start at least 30 days before the current permit expires. After consent and application approval, the new employer arranges the required bond and insurance and the signed declaration.

On the agreed transfer date, the new employer issues the new Work Permit and gives the helper the Temporary Work Permit. The old permit is then cancelled automatically. The issuance deadline is the earlier of 21 days after approval or the existing permit’s expiry. The current employer pays levy through the new permit’s issuance date.

Source: MOM: direct transfer process.

Renewing a helper’s Work Permit

MOM normally sends the renewal letter about eight weeks before expiry. Renew after receiving it and before the current permit expires. The renewal fee is S$35, the online outcome is immediate, and validity is generally up to two years, subject to applicable limitations.

Review the renewal letter, update passport details, complete any required examination and renew the bond and insurance package. Short insurance validity or the helper reaching age 60 can shorten the renewed permit. Check the Temporary Work Permit to see whether the existing card should be kept or replaced. If the helper plans to travel near expiry, arrange renewal before departure. Household measles-immunity requirements may apply where children below seven are not fully vaccinated.

Source: MOM: renewal requirements.

Ending employment and cancelling the permit

Cancel within one week of the last working day, or within one week of departure if the helper leaves and will not return to work. Settle outstanding salary and employment issues, agree travel arrangements and arrange the employer-paid journey home. For a helper still in Singapore, follow the cancellation instructions for the Special Pass and departure. The flight should be within two weeks of cancellation, and she must leave before the Special Pass expires.

Once the Work Permit is cancelled, she cannot continue working while waiting to leave. A transfer is a different process; do not cancel first without understanding its effect on the planned transfer. Levy is charged until the day before cancellation.

Source: MOM: cancellation and departure.

Prepare a dated handover plan

Record the last working day, permit expiry, intended transfer or flight date, salary settlement, insurance dates and transaction responsibilities. Keep the final MOM letters with the employment records. An informal agreement does not extend a permit or legal stay.

Ask about helper application support or return to the domestic helper guide.