Work Permit Cancellation for Maids: What’s the Right Process?

Introduction

Hiring a maid in Singapore can be a lifesaver for many households, providing much-needed assistance with daily chores, childcare, and elderly care. However, there may come a time when an employer needs to cancel a maid’s work permit due to various reasons, such as contract completion, personal circumstances, or performance issues. Understanding the correct procedure for work permit cancellation is crucial to ensure a smooth transition and avoid potential legal issues.

Before proceeding, it's important to know that the process is governed by Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM). Employers must follow the necessary steps to cancel the work permit correctly and comply with MOM regulations. Additionally, if you're looking for professional domestic help or need assistance with the work permit process, you can visit 114 Maids for expert services related to hiring and managing maids in Singapore.

In this guide, we will walk through the step-by-step process of canceling a maid’s work permit in Singapore, the responsibilities of the employer, and what needs to be done after the cancellation.

When Should You Cancel a Maid’s Work Permit?

A maid’s work permit should be canceled under the following circumstances:

• If the contract period has ended and will not be renewed.
• If the employer decides to discontinue the employment for personal or professional reasons.
• If the maid wants to return to her home country permanently.
• If the maid finds employment with another employer and needs a transfer.
• If the maid violates employment terms or has disciplinary issues that warrant termination.
• If the employer is relocating out of Singapore and can no longer provide employment.

It is essential to handle the cancellation process properly to avoid penalties, legal issues, or unnecessary complications.

Step-by-Step Process to Cancel a Maid’s Work Permit

1. Settle Any Outstanding Payments

Before initiating the cancellation process, employers must ensure that all financial matters with the maid are settled. This includes:

• Paying her final salary
• Clearing any bonuses or agreed compensation
• Settling the security bond if applicable
• Covering the cost of a return ticket to her home country (as per MOM regulations)

2. Purchase an Air Ticket for Repatriation

One of the employer’s main responsibilities when canceling a maid’s work permit is ensuring that she returns home safely. Employers are required to purchase an air ticket to the maid’s home country. The ticket should:

• Be a direct flight or have minimal stopovers.
• Be confirmed and not a standby ticket.
• Include luggage allowance so that the maid can carry her belongings.

3. Apply for Work Permit Cancellation via MOM Portal

The work permit cancellation process is done online through the MOM e-Service portal. The steps include:

• Logging in to the MOM website using your Singpass.
• Selecting ‘Cancel Work Permit’ under the foreign domestic worker section.
• Providing details of the maid, such as her work permit number and passport details.
• Uploading any necessary supporting documents if required.
• Submitting the request.

Once the request is submitted, the system usually processes it immediately, and the employer will receive an acknowledgment email.

4. Notify the Maid and Hand Over Important Documents

Once the cancellation is approved, the employer should inform the maid about the next steps and provide her with necessary documents such as:

• Her original passport
• A copy of the work permit cancellation approval
• The air ticket details
• Any other relevant records that she may need

5. Return the Work Permit Card

After cancellation, the maid’s work permit card must be returned to MOM. The options for returning the card include:

• Mailing it to MOM’s Work Pass Division.
• Dropping it off at the designated MOM service center.
• Destroying the card and declaring it during the cancellation process.

6. Security Bond Handling

If the security bond was required during the hiring process, it will be discharged within one week after MOM confirms the maid’s departure, provided there are no violations of employment terms.

7. Ensure the Maid Leaves Singapore

Employers are responsible for ensuring that the maid leaves Singapore after the work permit cancellation unless she has found a new employer and is transferring under MOM’s guidelines.

What Happens After Work Permit Cancellation?

Once the work permit is canceled:

• The maid will no longer be legally employed in Singapore.
• She must leave Singapore within 7 days unless she is transferred to another employer.
• The security bond is refunded, provided there are no violations.
• Employers can apply for a new maid’s work permit if they wish to hire another domestic helper.

If you are considering hiring a new domestic helper, you can check out professional maid services at 114 Maids to streamline the process.

FAQs

1. Can I Cancel My Maid’s Work Permit Before the Contract Ends?

Yes, an employer can cancel the maid’s work permit before the contract ends. However, the employer must follow MOM guidelines, provide a valid reason, and ensure all legal responsibilities are met, including repatriation.

2. What If My Maid Refuses to Leave Singapore After Cancellation?

If a maid refuses to leave Singapore after her work permit has been canceled, the employer must inform MOM immediately. MOM may issue further instructions, and the maid may face penalties for overstaying.

3. How Long Does It Take to Cancel a Work Permit?

The cancellation process is usually instantaneous once submitted online. However, security bond clearance may take up to one week.

4. Can I Transfer My Maid to Another Employer Instead of Cancelling?

Yes, if the maid finds a new employer, her work permit can be transferred rather than canceled. The new employer must submit a transfer request through MOM’s system.

Conclusion

Canceling a maid’s work permit in Singapore is a straightforward process if you follow the proper steps. Employers must ensure all financial dues are cleared, provide the necessary documents, and arrange for the maid’s departure. Properly managing this process helps maintain compliance with MOM regulations and ensures a smooth transition for both the employer and the maid.

For professional assistance with maid hiring, work permits, and other domestic helper services, visit 114 Maids.