FDW Hiring Options
Transfer Maid vs New Maid in Singapore: Which Should You Choose?
Should you hire a transfer maid already in Singapore, or a new helper from overseas? This guide compares both options in terms of timing, experience, cost and suitability, so you can make a confident decision for your family.
At a glance
Transfer maids usually offer faster availability and local experience.
New maids typically require more time to arrive, but can be trained from scratch to your family’s routines.
In Singapore, most employers will choose between two main categories when hiring a Foreign Domestic Worker (FDW):
- Transfer maid – already in Singapore, moving from one employer to another.
- New maid (overseas) – coming from her home country to work in Singapore.
There is no “one-size-fits-all” answer. The best choice depends on your urgency, budget, expectations and household needs.
What is a transfer maid?
A transfer maid is an FDW who is already in Singapore and is transferring to a new employer. Common reasons for transfer include:
- Employer is relocating or no longer needs a helper.
- The family situation has changed (children grown up, elderly passed on, etc.).
- Both employer and helper mutually agree to end the contract.
Advantages of hiring a transfer maid
- Faster start: In many cases, she can start work within 1–2 weeks, subject to MOM approval.
- Local experience: She is already familiar with Singapore’s lifestyle, housing, transport and culture.
- Proven track record: You can ask about her actual duties and performance with previous employers.
- Face-to-face interviews: Often possible to meet her in person before confirming.
Things to consider for transfer maids
- She may have certain habits formed from previous households.
- There may be emotional attachment or unfinished matters with her current employer.
- Availability depends on her transfer window and release date.
Honest Recruiter tip: When considering a transfer maid, always clarify why the employment is
ending and listen to both the helper’s and the previous employer’s perspectives where possible.
What is a new maid from overseas?
A new maid (sometimes called a “fresh maid”) is an FDW who will enter Singapore from her home country to start work. She may be completely new or have worked in other countries before.
Advantages of hiring a new maid
- Fresh start: She has no prior Singapore employer, so you can set expectations clearly from Day 1.
- Trainable: Often more open to learning your way of doing things and adapting to your routines.
- Profile variety: A wider pool of candidates by nationality, age, and background.
- Structured training: Some are trained in source-country centres for cooking, childcare or eldercare.
Things to consider for new maids
- Longer lead time – it may take 4–8 weeks or more for processing, training and travel.
- She will need time to adjust to Singapore’s culture, food and climate.
- Language skills may be basic initially, improving with time and exposure.
Transfer Maid vs New Maid: Side-by-side comparison
Here is a simple comparison to help you see the differences more clearly:
-
Timeline:
Transfer maid – usually faster, around 1–2 weeks once paperwork is settled.
New maid – typically 4–8 weeks, depending on training and travel. -
Local experience:
Transfer maid – has experience with Singapore households and routines.
New maid – no Singapore experience, but may have overseas experience. -
Adaptability:
Transfer maid – used to local norms, but may have existing habits.
New maid – more “blank slate”, easier to shape to your household style. -
Interviewing:
Transfer maid – often can interview face-to-face or via live video in Singapore.
New maid – usually via video call from overseas. -
Cost considerations:
Overall package may differ depending on agency, insurance and travel. Honest Recruiter provides itemised breakdowns for both options so you can compare fairly.
Good to know: The “cheapest” option is not always the most economical. A well-matched helper who stays
longer can save you time, money and stress compared to multiple replacements.
Which option is better for your family?
There is no universally “better” choice – only what matches your situation best. Consider:
1. How urgent is your need?
- Very urgent (within weeks): A transfer maid is generally more suitable.
- Can wait a bit longer: A new maid gives you more profiles to choose from.
2. How specific are your requirements?
- Specific skills (e.g. dementia care, special needs, newborn experience): A transfer maid with proven experience can give you more confidence.
- General housekeeping and childcare: Both transfer and new maids can work, as long as expectations are set clearly and training is provided.
3. How much time can you spend on training?
- Limited time for training: A transfer maid familiar with Singapore may pick things up faster.
- Willing to invest time upfront: A new maid can be shaped to your preferred style over the first 1–2 months.
Frequently asked questions
Can I interview a transfer maid face-to-face?
Yes, in many cases you can meet transfer maids in person in Singapore, or at least via live video. This helps you assess
communication, attitude and chemistry more accurately.
Are transfer maids always more expensive?
Not always. While some transfer maids may command higher salaries due to experience, there may be savings on airfare or
overseas processing. Honest Recruiter provides clear, itemised quotations so you can compare total cost
properly.
Will a new maid struggle more at the start?
A new maid may need more guidance during the first few weeks as she adjusts to your home, routines and Singapore’s
environment. With patience, clear instructions and support, most settle in well over time.
