Hiring a migrant domestic worker (MDW) for the first time is a big decision, especially for a young couple in Singapore. One key choice you’ll need to make is whether to hire a new maid (someone coming from overseas with no prior experience working in Singapore) or a transfer maid (someone already in Singapore looking for a new employer). The right choice depends on your needs, expectations, and budget.
New Maid vs. Transfer Maid: A Quick Comparison
| Factor | New Maid | Transfer Maid |
| Experience in Singapore | No | Yes |
| Training Required | More | Less |
| Adjustment Period | Longer | Shorter |
| Cost | Higher upfront fees | Lower upfront fees |
| Waiting Time | 2-3 months | 2-4 weeks |
| Availability | Must arrive from overseas | Already in Singapore |
Pros & Cons
New Maid
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
| Fresh start with no previous employer habits | Requires more training and patience to adapt to Singapore’s lifestyle |
| Can be trained according to your household’s preferences | Longer processing time (around 2–3 months) |
| Usually more affordable in terms of salary | May experience homesickness or culture shock |
Transfer Maid
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
| Already familiar with Singapore’s way of life and expectations | May have existing work habits that are difficult to change |
| Shorter waiting time (can start within 2–4 weeks) | Usually requires a higher salary due to experience |
| Can interview the maid before hiring to assess suitability | Some may be transferring due to past employer conflicts—important to check references |
Checklist: What to Keep in Mind
✔ Assess Your Needs: Do you need someone experienced, or are you willing to train a new maid?
✔ Budget Considerations: A new maid has higher upfront costs, while a transfer maid may have a higher salary.
✔ Waiting Time: If you need urgent help, a transfer maid is the faster option.
✔ Interviewing & References: Always ask about past experience, reasons for transfer, and employer feedback.
✔ Cultural Adaptation: A new maid may take longer to adjust, while a transfer maid already knows Singapore.
Next Steps
1. Identify Your Priorities – Decide what matters most: experience, cost, or training.
2. Consult a Maid Agency – A reliable agency can help match you with the right candidate.
3. Interview & Shortlist – If considering a transfer maid, conduct interviews and request references.
4. Plan for Training & Onboarding – Whether new or transfer, set clear expectations from the start.
Hiring a maid is a long-term decision, so take the time to evaluate your options. Whether you choose a new maid or a transfer maid, the key to a good employer-maid relationship is clear communication and respect.