Every employment journey eventually reaches its end, whether your helper is heading home, transferring, or you are both moving on. How you handle this final chapter matters just as much as the welcome. A fair, well-organised farewell protects your helper, keeps you compliant, and leaves the relationship on good terms. Here is a clear checklist to guide you through the end of contract.
Know your core duties first
When a contract ends, certain employer responsibilities still apply in Singapore. The two most important are arranging your helper’s repatriation, including the air ticket back to her home country, and settling her final salary and any outstanding amounts in full. These are not optional courtesies, they are part of being a responsible employer.
Plan the final week early. Sorting out the flight, final pay and paperwork ahead of time turns a potentially stressful goodbye into a calm, dignified one for both of you.
Repatriation and the air ticket
You are responsible for sending your helper home safely at the end of the contract, which includes providing the air ticket to her home country or place of origin. Book in good time so she travels comfortably, and coordinate the date with her so it fits her plans where possible.
- Confirm her travel destination and preferred timing.
- Book the air ticket home in advance, not at the last minute.
- Make sure she can reach the airport safely on departure day.
Settling the final salary
Pay any salary owed in full and on time, including any portion for the final partial month. Settle this clearly so there is no confusion or dispute. A transparent final settlement is the hallmark of a fair employer and leaves no loose ends.
- Calculate salary due up to her last working day.
- Include any agreed amounts still outstanding.
- Pay in full before she departs, and keep a record.
Paperwork and admin
There is some housekeeping to close things off properly. Work Permit cancellation, return of documents, and any related formalities all need attention. Because exact procedures and timeframes can change, check MOM for the latest steps and deadlines so nothing is missed.
- Cancel the Work Permit as required, check MOM for current steps.
- Return her passport and personal documents to her.
- Settle any security bond or insurance matters appropriately.
A respectful goodbye
Beyond the checklist, remember the human side. Your helper has been part of your household, often caring for the people you love most. A kind farewell, a word of thanks, and help with her departure leave a lasting good impression, and the world of domestic help in Singapore is smaller than you think. Treating people well always comes back around.
Your quick end-of-contract checklist
- Confirm the end date with your helper.
- Book the air ticket home in advance.
- Calculate and pay the final salary in full.
- Complete Work Permit cancellation and admin, per MOM.
- Return her passport and personal documents.
- Say a proper, respectful goodbye.
How Ming Hwee helps
Closing one chapter often means opening another. Ming Hwee, a MOM-licensed agency (Licence 12C6072), supports you through end-of-contract duties and, when you are ready, helps you find your next helper smoothly. Whatever stage you are at, we are here to help. Find your helper with us, or message us on WhatsApp.
Related guides
- How to Build Trust with a New Helper in the First 30 Days
- Renewing Your Helper’s Contract: Timeline and Tips
- 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.
