New parents in Singapore often seek support during the crucial postpartum period. Malaysian confinement nannies provide specialized care for both mother and newborn, helping with traditional practices, infant care, and maternal recovery during the first few weeks after childbirth.
To legally hire a foreign confinement nanny in Singapore, you must obtain a Work Permit for Confinement Nanny. The Confinement Nanny Permit is valid for up to 16 weeks starting from your child’s date of birth. The application process starts 4 weeks before your expected delivery date and requires meeting specific eligibility criteria.
Ensuring proper documentation protects both you and your confinement nanny. You'll need to meet certain requirements, like being at least 21 years old and paying monthly levy fees to maintain a legal employment relationship.
Key Takeaways
Work Permits for confinement nannies must be secured before employment begins and are valid for 16 weeks
Employers must meet age requirements and pay monthly levies to maintain permit validity
Applications can be submitted up to 4 weeks before expected delivery through self-application or employment agencies
A work permit is essential for legally employing a confinement nanny in your home. The permit protects both you and your nanny while ensuring compliance with employment regulations.
A confinement nanny work permit is an official document that allows foreign nannies to work legally in your household during the postnatal period. Your nanny must have this permit before starting work.
The permit grants temporary employment authorization, typically matching your planned confinement period. You need to submit the permit application before your nanny arrives.
Key requirements for employers:
Valid residential address
Written consent
Timely application submission
Responsibility for permit cancellation
The Ministry of Manpower strictly regulates confinement nanny work permits. Your nanny's initial social visit pass is valid for 30 days, requiring an extension for longer stays.
You must complete two essential steps:
Apply for the work permit before service starts
Cancel the permit within 2 days after service ends
Employers face legal obligations:
Provide accurate information
Maintain valid permit status
Follow employment regulations
Ensure proper documentation
Getting a confinement nanny work permit requires meeting specific criteria and following a precise application process through Singapore's Ministry of Manpower.
You must be at least 21 years old to hire a foreign confinement nanny in Singapore.
Your baby must be under 4 months old at the time of application.
The Work Permit is valid for up to 16 weeks from your child's birth date.
Nanny Requirements:
Must be from Malaysia
Must provide written consent for the Work Permit
Must be willing to comply with Singapore's employment regulations
You can start the application 4 weeks before your expected delivery date.
Application Steps:
Get written consent from your chosen nanny
Log in to MOM's online portal
Fill out the Work Permit application form
Pay the required monthly levy
Wait for approval notification
The process can be handled by you directly or through employment agencies.
For Employers:
Your NRIC or passport
Proof of pregnancy/child's birth certificate
Proof of residential address
Employment details
A medical examination is optional. You may want to send your confinement nanny for a medical checkup because she will be in contact with your newborn.
For Nanny:
Malaysian passport
Previous work experience documentation (if any)
Medical certification (if required)
Keep digital copies of all documents for easy upload during the online application process.
When hiring a non-Singapore citizen confinement nanny, both employers and nannies must follow specific rules and meet certain requirements to maintain a legal working relationship.
You must provide medical insurance coverage for your confinement nanny during their employment period. The minimum coverage is S$15,000 per year for inpatient care and day surgery.
You need to pay the Foreign Worker Levy, which varies based on your newborn's citizenship status. The amount is lower if your child is a Singapore citizen.
You must ensure proper accommodation with basic amenities for your nanny. This includes a clean, safe sleeping area and access to bathroom facilities.
Your nanny's Work Permit application should be submitted between 4 weeks before delivery and 16 weeks after birth.
Your confinement nanny is entitled to adequate rest periods and reasonable working hours. While specific hours aren't regulated, you should discuss and agree on schedules beforehand.
The nanny must receive their agreed-upon salary on time. Keep clear payment records and provide salary slips.
They have the right to retain their passport and personal documents. You cannot hold these items.
Medical care must be accessible when needed, with the employer covering the costs as per the insurance policy.
You must cancel the Work Permit if your nanny stops working for you. This should be done within 7 days of employment ending.
Ensure your nanny works only for you and only performs confinement care duties. They cannot work for other employers or do general housework.
Required Documentation:
Valid passport
Work Permit
Medical insurance certificate
Employment contract
The nanny must leave Singapore once the Work Permit expires unless you apply for an extension within the allowed timeframe.
Managing your confinement nanny's work permit requires careful attention to legal requirements and timelines. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has specific processes in place to ensure smooth transitions.
You will receive a renewal letter from MOM about 8 weeks before the permit expires.
The Work Permit for confinement nannies typically lasts up to 16 weeks from your child's birth date.
To renew the permit, use the FDW eService portal to complete the transaction.
To end your nanny's employment, you must cancel the Work Permit through the FDW eService.
Print the acknowledgment letter and give it to your nanny after cancellation.
Important Points to Note:
Your nanny cannot work after permit cancellation, even while waiting to leave Singapore
Levy charges continue until the day before the cancellation
You must ensure your nanny has a valid ticket to return home
You must apply for a Work Permit 4 weeks before your expected delivery date. The permit is valid for up to 16 weeks after your child's expected date of delivery.
Make sure to follow these key requirements:
Verify your nanny's nationality and eligibility status
Obtain proper medical insurance coverage
Pay the required foreign worker levy
Keep accurate employment records
Follow wage payment guidelines
Employing a confinement nanny without a valid work permit can result in fines of up to $5,000 and a permanent ban from hiring foreign domestic workers.
You can manage permit transactions through the official MOM eService portal. This includes applying, renewing, or canceling permits.
To prevent potential conflicts:
Create a clear written agreement outlining duties and expectations
Set specific work hours and rest periods
Establish communication guidelines
Keep receipts of all payments made
Document any workplace incidents or concerns
Consider working with a licensed employment agency to help navigate the legal requirements and ensure compliance with Singapore's employment laws.
Getting a confinement nanny work permit requires careful planning and attention to detail.
Applying for the work permit should be done about 4 weeks before your expected delivery date.
Make sure you have all required documents ready, including the nanny's written consent and your authorization if working through an agency.
The permit application process involves paying the foreign worker levy and securing medical insurance.
You can submit the application yourself or work with a licensed employment agency.
Online transactions are available through the official MOM website for permit applications, renewals, and cancellations.
Keep these key requirements in mind:
Valid residential address
Medical insurance coverage
Foreign worker levy payment
Proper documentation
Written consent from the nanny
Follow these steps carefully to ensure a smooth hiring process that complies with Singapore's regulations.
Your confinement nanny can only start working once you receive the official work permit approval.
