Frequently Asked Questions by Helpers


Find answers to common questions about working in Singapore, finding an employer and applying with Universal.
  • The age will be 23 to 50 but for Filipino helpers, it will be a minimum age of 24.
  • Every helper is different. Some helpers find an employer within a few days, while others may take longer depending on experience, skills and employer preferences.
  • Salary depends on your overall experience, skills, language ability and the employer's requirements.
  • Yes. Rest day arrangements are discussed and agreed upon between you and your employer before employment begins.
  • Sleeping arrangements depend on each employer's home and should be discussed during the interview.
  • Usually your passport, work permit (if applicable), employment records and any other documents requested by our staff.
  • Yes. Experienced overseas helpers are welcome to register with us.
  • There is no fixed limit. We will continue arranging suitable interviews until you find the right employer.
  • Employers may ask about your work experience, cooking, childcare, elderly care, housekeeping and your expectations for work.
  • Yes. If you feel the job is not suitable, you may let us know.
  • Don't worry. We will continue introducing your profile to other suitable employers.
  • Yes. Ex-Singapore helpers are always welcome to register with us.
  • Yes. Depending on your nationality and eligibility, first-time applicants may also register.
  • Interviews are usually arranged through our agency. We will coordinate the interview schedule with you.
  • Please inform us as early as possible so we can reschedule with the employer if appropriate.
  • We have been helping helpers and employers since 1986 and believe in honest communication, personalised support and long-term relationships.
  • Simply complete our online registration form or contact us through WhatsApp at +65 9645 3456. Our staff will guide you through the next steps.
  • We can provided you have a confirm departure flight date.
  • Yes. If your employer has received a letter or email from MOM for your 6-monthly medical check-up, you will still need to complete your 6-monthly medical check-up first, before transferring to your new employer.
  • Yes. If you wish to transfer to a new employer in Singapore, you need to inform your current employer. Your employer's consent and confirmation of your release date are required, as MOM requires the current employer's approval for the transfer.
  • Yes. You may let us know your preference, and we will try to match you with employers who are open to giving Public Holidays off. However, Public Holidays are not compulsory under MOM regulations, so whether you have PH off depends on your employer's household needs and mutual agreement between you and your employer.
  • Your passport belongs to you. Your employer should not keep your passport without your permission. However, if you have agreed for your employer to keep it for safekeeping, they may do so with your consent.
  • If your passport has less than 6 months' validity before you travel to Singapore, please renew it before we secure you an employer to avoid any travel or immigration issues.
  • Yes. If you encounter any problems or have concerns while working with your new employer, you can contact us. We will do our best to understand the situation and assist both you and your employer in resolving the issue.
  • No. You do not need to resign before applying with us. We recommend waiting until you have secured a confirmed job offer and seek our advice before resigning. However, do take your notice period into consideration so it does not delay your departure to Singapore.
  • Usually, your employer will provide your daily meals. A food allowance is generally only provided if your employer has special dietary requirements (e.g. vegetarian meals only) that you are unable to share, or if they are unable to provide meals for you.
  • For transfer helpers, employers are generally unable to provide home leave immediately after you start work, as home leave is usually given when you renew your contract after completing your contract. If you need to return home urgently before starting work, you may apply as an Ex-Singapore (overseas) helper instead, and we can assist you with returning to Singapore after your trip.
  • No. Most interviews are conducted by video call, so you do not need to come to our office for every interview. If you are a transfer helper and an in-person interview is required, we will inform you in advance and arrange it on your rest day whenever possible.
  • Yes. We work with both local Singaporean families and expat families from many different countries. This gives helpers a wider range of opportunities when searching for a suitable employer.
  • Transfer helpers are generally expected to remain in Singapore during the transfer process. If you return to your home country first, you may still apply through us, but you will no longer be considered a transfer helper.
  • Yes. We believe helpers should have the freedom to choose the employer and family they feel most comfortable working with. You can decide whether or not to proceed after each interview.
  • You can submit your application through our website or contact us directly via WhatsApp at +65 9645 3456. Once we receive your application, our team will review your profile and help match you with suitable employers in Singapore.
  • No. Transfer is FREE with us and there is no salary deduction when you transfer through Universal Employment Agency.
  • Yes. Your employer’s consent is always required if you wish to transfer to a new employer in Singapore, even if you have completed or are about to complete your contract.
Domestic Helper Applying for Job Online

Looking for an Employer in Singapore?

Apply with Universal Employment Agency and explore opportunities with local and expat families.