If your helper has become a trusted part of your household, renewing her contract for another term is a wonderful outcome, it means stability for your family and continuity of care for your loved ones. But renewal is also a process with timelines that matter. Plan ahead and the whole thing is smooth; leave it late and you risk unnecessary stress. Here is how to get it right.
Understand the cycle
A helper’s contract generally aligns with the roughly two-year Work Permit cycle. As that period draws to a close, you will need to decide whether to renew and, if so, apply before the permit expires. Treat the expiry date as a hard line on your calendar, not a guideline.
Mark the Work Permit expiry date the moment your helper joins you, then set a reminder a few months before. Renewing early removes all the last-minute pressure.
Start the conversation early
Renewal should be a two-way decision. A few months before the contract ends, have an honest, friendly chat with your helper about whether she wishes to continue. She may have her own plans, family commitments back home, or hopes for the next term. Talking early gives both of you time to plan.
- Ask whether she is happy and would like to renew.
- Discuss any adjustments, duties, rest days, or arrangements.
- Agree on home leave if she would like a break between terms.
A simple renewal timeline
- Around 3 to 4 months before expiry: Talk to your helper and decide together.
- Around 2 months before: Sort out the renewal of mandatory medical and personal accident insurance, and check whether a 6ME medical is needed, confirm current requirements with MOM.
- Before expiry: Submit the Work Permit renewal application in good time, never wait until the final days.
- On renewal: Refresh the employment contract terms and make sure salary and any agreed changes are documented clearly.
Because exact fees, levy details and processing times can change, always check MOM for the latest before you apply.
Tips for a smooth renewal
A little organisation goes a long way. Keep your helper’s documents, insurance papers and contract in one place so you are not scrambling at renewal time. Make sure her insurance coverage does not lapse during the transition, and confirm the new contract reflects anything you both agreed to change.
- Keep all documents together and up to date.
- Avoid any gap in insurance coverage.
- Put agreed changes in writing to prevent misunderstandings later.
- Plan home leave timing so it does not clash with the renewal window.
If you decide not to renew
Sometimes renewal is not the right fit for either side, and that is okay. If you choose not to continue, remember your end-of-contract duties still apply, including the air ticket home and settling the final salary. A respectful close to one chapter keeps the relationship dignified for everyone.
How Ming Hwee helps
Renewals can feel fiddly, but you do not have to manage them alone. Ming Hwee, a MOM-licensed agency (Licence 12C6072), guides employers through the renewal timeline, paperwork and insurance so nothing slips through the cracks, and we are here if you would prefer to find a new match instead. Need a hand? Find your helper or speak to us on WhatsApp.
Related guides
- End-of-Contract Checklist: Repatriation, Air Ticket & Final Pay
- How to Build Trust with a New Helper in the First 30 Days
- Caring for the Helper Who Cares for Your Family
Ready to hire? Get a free, no-obligation helper shortlist from Ming Hwee — Singapore’s trusted maid agency since 1983.
